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HPA Axis Conditioning

Meaning

The systematic process of intentionally modulating the responsiveness and set-point of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, the body’s central stress response system, to improve its efficiency and flexibility. Conditioning aims to reduce the magnitude of the cortisol response to a given stressor while accelerating the return to baseline following the stressor’s removal. This results in a more resilient endocrine system that can effectively manage acute demands without succumbing to chronic dysregulation. It is a fundamental strategy for hormonal health and longevity.