Quick answer
Hormesis: definition
Hormesis is a biological response in which a low or moderate dose of a stressor triggers beneficial adaptations, while higher doses can be harmful.
Hormesis, explained
Exercise is the classic example: it's a stressor that, followed by recovery, makes you fitter. Heat, cold and fasting are also studied as hormetic stressors.
Why it matters
Hormesis explains why the dose — and recovery — matter for practices like cold plunges, saunas and training.
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What is Hormesis?
Why does Hormesis matter?
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