‘Good Stress’ May Build Resilience, Says Wellness Expert Jeff Krasno

Stress is typically seen as harmful, but Jeff Krasno, co-founder and CEO of Commune, argues that some stress may be beneficial. Speaking to CNBC Make It, Krasno advocates for incorporating “good stress” into daily routines to foster resilience and improve well-being.

“Good stress is generally acute and short-term. It comes and goes,” Krasno explains. “Chronic stress is bad. It never really fades away.” Chronic stress, according to the National Institutes of Health, has been linked to sleep disorders, digestive problems, and headaches.

Man lifting dumbbells | Source: Pexels

Krasno, who refers to himself as the “PR agent for stress,” promotes intentional exposure to manageable stressors, such as intermittent fasting, cold exposure, and social engagement. These experiences, though briefly uncomfortable, may enhance emotional regulation and overall health.

In his upcoming book, "Good Stress: The Health Benefits of Doing Hard Things," Krasno outlines a structured day designed to introduce good stress. His routine includes early rising, exposure to natural light, alternating hot and cold therapy, and regular physical activity. Meals are nutrient-focused and timed to support intermittent fasting.

Man in a frozen lake | Source: Pexels

“What we’ve done in our modern society is we’ve denuded our lives of all of these Paleolithic, good stressors in the pursuit of ease and convenience,” Krasno says. “And candidly, chronic ease has led to a lot of chronic disease.”

Krasno emphasizes gradual adoption. “These [practices] can be stacked slowly into someone’s life,” he advises. “I’m always a fan of just easing into the edge of your discomfort, and adopting the protocols that you will actually do. Those are the best ones.”