Why do I say to take a cold shower? Well, low doses of a stressful stimulus activates an adaptive response in our bodies which increases the resistance of the cell or organism to higher stress levels. This short stress exposure is called hormesis. The hormetic response involves the expressos of genes that encode certain cellular protective proteins like heat-shock proteins, anti-oxidant enzymes and growth factors. Chronic stress does the opposite and we do not want to be in a stressful state for long periods. Short stress exposures can lead to variety of anti-aging, longevity effects, improved immune system, reduced load of damaged cells in us.
One of the most well known forms of hormesis is exercise, specifically weight training or HIIT, about 20 minutes. This injures the muscles on a microscopic level which then causes muscle to repair becoming stronger and developing more. This doesn't mean you have to be a body builder or massive athlete. You can train appropriately for your level and still get the hormetic stressor effects.
Another way is brief cold exposure. Even at the end of a nice hot shower, switching the water to cold for 1-3 minutes. It is something to get used to, but can be quite invigorating!
Why do I say to take a cold shower? Well, low doses of a stressful stimulus activates an adaptive response in our bodies which increases the resistance of the cell or organism to higher stress levels. This short stress exposure is called hormesis. The hormetic response involves the expression of genes that encode certain cellular protective proteins like heat-shock proteins, anti-oxidant enzymes and growth factors. Chronic stress does the opposite and we do not want to be in a stressful state for long periods. Short stress exposures can lead to variety of anti-aging, longevity effects, improved immune system, reduced load of damaged cells in us.
Heat exposure - like a sauna can also have similar effect. If you do not have a medical condition which would make it unsafe, starting with 10 minutes and working up to up to 30 minutes in sauna can be beneficial. You should drink about 1L of mineral rich filtered water for every 30 minutes you are exposed.
Always consult with you healthcare provider for what may be best for you! You can also set up a consult at noworriesintegrative.com
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