In this lesson, we explore the role of “good” stress, the measurable consequences of chronic stress, and evidence-based strategies for cultivating stress resilience, including research showing the genetic impact of reducing stress.
Understand the role of “good” stress (adaptive challenge), the physiology of chronic stress and its significant impacts on immunity, overall health, disease , and mental well-being, plus measurable outcomes — including genetic expression (epigenetics) — from yoga and other practical strategies that cultivate stress resilience.
Review the origins and definitions of stress and distinguish between adaptive and maladaptive stress responses. Explore the concepts of eustress and hormesis, and how appropriate levels of challenge support health, adaptation, and growth, while insufficient stress can be detrimental, including findings from research on prolonged inactivity and bed rest. Examine chronic stress and its wide-ranging effects across behavioral, psychological, neurological, and cognitive domains, with attention to its associations with immune dysfunction and chronic disease risk, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and autoimmune conditions. Consider how stress physiology operates, including elevated adrenaline and cortisol, and introduce practical approaches for completing the stress response cycle to support recovery and physiological homeostasis. Explore evidence-informed strategies for developing stress resilience, including cognitive reframing, behavioral adaptation, and lifestyle-based interventions.
allostatic load, antifragile, atrophy, chronic stress, distress, eustress, fragility, hormesis, stress, stress resilience
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