{HMW} Turn Stress into Strength: The Surprising Benefits of Hormetic Stressors


Dear Reader

Stress sucks, right?

Not, necessarily all the time. In fact, there is a whole field of research on Hormetic stressors and how seeking them out can foster resiliency.

Hormetic stressors work by challenging the body in small, manageable ways, forcing it to adapt and become stronger. When exposed to these mild stressors, the body activates survival pathways that repair and strengthen cells, improve metabolic processes, and build up resilience to more significant challenges. This is the principle behind “training” the body to handle stress more effectively. In contrast to chronic stress, which can lead to wear and tear, hormetic stress promotes vitality, longevity, and overall health.

By introducing these stressors in controlled and moderate doses, you can leverage the body’s natural ability to adapt and grow stronger, fostering both physical and mental resilience.

Here’s a list of a few common hormetic stressors and their benefits:

NOTE ***Some of these will be more doable than others. For instance, I know I would not ever want to do intermittent fasting but I love High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) so pick one or two of these and try it out!***

Intermittent Fasting

What it is: Cycling between periods of eating and fasting.

Benefits: Promotes cellular repair, autophagy (cellular cleanup), improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced inflammation.

Cold Exposure (Cold Plunges, Ice Baths, Cold Showers)

What it is: Short bursts of exposure to cold temperatures.

Benefits: Boosts circulation, reduces inflammation, strengthens the immune system, and enhances mental toughness.

Heat Exposure (Sauna, Hot Baths)

What it is: Periodic exposure to high heat, such as in a sauna or hot bath.

Benefits: Promotes detoxification through sweating, improves cardiovascular health, and increases heat shock proteins that help protect cells.

Exercise (Especially High-Intensity Interval Training)

What it is: Physical activity, especially short bursts of intense exercise.

Benefits: Strengthens muscles and bones, enhances cardiovascular health, and boosts endorphin levels, leading to improved mood and resilience.

Hypoxia (Altitude Training, Breath-Holding)

What it is: Exposing the body to reduced oxygen levels.

Benefits: Improves oxygen efficiency, enhances red blood cell production, and strengthens cardiovascular health.

Cognitive Stressors (Learning New Skills, Puzzles)

What it is: Engaging in challenging mental activities that push cognitive limits.

Benefits: Enhances neuroplasticity, sharpens memory, and builds cognitive resilience.

Although stress is often viewed negatively, hormetic stress works on the principle of "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." These stressors stimulate the body to repair itself, boost immunity, and enhance overall health.

Which ones will you try? Write me back and let me know!

Have it:

Interesting article(s) alert: Where does Love live in the brain?

An Ancient Practice that can ease anxiety

I love my therapy yoga balls. I bring them on long car rides and in my carry on for flights. My hips, shoulders and neck tend to get tight and it's a great way to relieve pain and increase circulation in those circumstances or after a workout.

Made it:

New Post: 5-senses Sunday

This week I'm diving into some unexpected finds! 🌊 From sneaky ways to incorporate seaweed into your diet (even if you can't stand it) to the wild world of pumpkin spice products you never knew you needed—get ready for some surprises. 🎃

Discover Music Map, the ultimate tool to find your next favorite artist 🎶, and explore the fascinating world of photomicrography, where everyday things transform into art under a microscope 🔬.

And if you're curious about how a haircut can double as a healing experience, you won't want to miss my take on the trending Reiki haircut ✂️✨.

Dive in with me and see what's rocking my 5 senses this week!

Want it:

It's legal soooo...why not try it?

Oooh, it's rent the runway but for every day clothes and it has a subscription model!

Ingredient Spotlight:

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has a warm, sweet-spicy flavor with a slightly woody aroma that adds depth to both sweet and savory dishes. Beyond its distinctive taste, cinnamon is known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, blood sugar regulation, and antioxidant effects.

It can be used in so many ways: sprinkle ground cinnamon on oatmeal or baked goods, steep cinnamon sticks in hot beverages, or add it to savory dishes like curries and stews for an extra layer of flavor.

And you know it's a staple in Pumpkin Spice Latte's!

Whether it's in a comforting mug of spiced tea or a hearty dish, cinnamon can elevate the taste while supporting your well-being.

Here is a site with 44 ways to use cinnamon in your cooking and baking

Announcements s & Upcoming

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood and wish you had more time and energy to focus on yourself? I get it—being a mom is a full-time job, and taking care of yourself can sometimes feel impossible.

That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce you to the Healthier Mom Bundle-Fall Edition, curated specifically for moms like you who are eager to embrace a healthier lifestyle. From September 9th to September 13th, you’ll be able to sign up for the bundle & have access to over 50 incredible resources valued at over $2500—all for free!

Because our host, Vanda, believes that wellness goes far beyond just diet & exercise, this bundle includes a variety of categories to cover every aspect of your wellness journey, including home management, parenting, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, mindset, and more.

Wanna know the best part? You can get on the waitlist now and be the first to access the bundle gift page when it goes live AND get a special surprise bonus! Don't miss out on the chance to transform your well-being with resources from experts who understand your needs.



Extra Bytes:

What I'm Reading: Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health by Casey Means, MD

What I'm Watching: Saundra Dalton-Smith's Ted Talk on The real reason why we are tired and what to do about it (the 7 types of rest to practice)

What I'm Listening to: This feel-good playlist

What I'm Eating: One-Pot Creamy Artichoke Orzotto with Dilly Spinach & Crispy Onions

That's it for me this week. Hope you all have a happy and healthy hump day!

Warmly,

Jenny

PS. Rate this issue!

The Conscious Eating Coach

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