Kinesis (Gr. Kinesis — Movement)

Kinesis (from the Greek “kinesis” - movement) is an increase in the activity of the body under the influence of any stimulus without a specific direction of movement. Unlike taxis, where the direction of movement is determined by the direction of the stimulus, with kinesis the body simply increases its activity without paying attention to the direction of movement.

Kinesis is one of the ways the body adapts to changing environmental conditions. It can manifest itself in both animals and humans. For example, when we feel cold, we begin to shiver to increase heat production and retain heat in the body. This is an example of kinesis.

Kinesis can also manifest itself in the emotional sphere. For example, when we feel strong emotions, such as fear or joy, our body begins to actively respond to these emotions, manifesting itself in increased cardiovascular activity and increased levels of stress hormones.

Kinesis is an important mechanism for the body's adaptation to a changing environment, and its study can help to better understand the principles of functioning of living organisms.