What do Mitochondria and Telomeres have to do with Stress and Deep Rest?

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In a recent study by Alexandra Crosswell, PhD, and Elissa Epel, PhD, the researches found that moderate stress can have a negative impact on our cells. My guess is that most people are aware that too much stress is bad for us, however these researchers have identified that the specific ways this occurs at the cellular level has much to do with our mitochondria which are sort of like the “janitors” of our cells. When we are stressed out the mitochondria have a harder time cleaning out the “garbage” that accumulates in the cells and so the “garbage” sticks around for longer. Stress also negatively impacts Telomeres (protective tips on chromosomes) and the researchers state, “The effects of chronic stress extend to our genetic material as well. At the tips of chromosomes, repeating segments of DNA form telomeres. With assistance from proteins, telomere “caps” protect the integrity of these packets of genetic code – for as long as they can. 

Each time a cell copies its genetic material so it can replicate, its telomeres lose a little DNA and shorten. Research started 20 years ago by Epel, with UCSF colleagues Nobel laureate Elizabeth Blackburn, PhD, and Jue Lin, PhD, shows that chronic psychological stress further shortens telomeres. This loss is a consequence of exposure to ROS, the release of hormones like cortisol, and inflammation. Molecular studies of cells substantiate this connection: By mimicking long-term exposure to the stress hormone cortisol, Picard has shown that cells respond by revving up their metabolisms, which shortens telomeres and hastens cell death,” quoted from a story by Wynne Parry

So what do we do about this???

It can be really helpful to know about the science behind stress and how deep rest can help rejuvenate the cells. The science can be the motivation that finally gets you to start that new health habit you have been thinking about. The researchers break it down into four steps:

  1. Slow your breathing

  2. Please your senses

  3. Pay attention to nature

  4. Look outside the box - Try something new that has a calming, contemplative, and reflective aspect to it such yoga, meditation, or even a drum circle.

If you would like support to talk through what has gotten in your way of starting these new habits to lower stress in your life and build in deep rest then I would be glad to work with you. Reach out and let’s work together for the long term health of your CELLS!