Physiology
Vasoconstriction
The narrowing of blood vessels, reducing blood flow to specific areas. A response to cold (conserving heat), stress (directing blood to essential organs), or injury (limiting bleeding).
Biological Context
In cold conditions, vasoconstriction in extremities reduces heat loss through the skin, conserving core temperature at the cost of cold fingers and toes. The opposite response, vasodilation, increases blood flow for cooling or healing.
Business Application
Organizational vasoconstriction: reducing resource flow to peripheral activities during stress, concentrating resources on core functions. Companies in crisis constrict—cutting marketing, R&D, and expansion to preserve cash for essential operations.