FOR PAIN, LOVE IS THE DRUG (Health Magazine - April, 2000)

Scientists have stumbled onto an odd testament to the power of positive thinking. Imagining sex, they've found, may help you get through bouts of pain.

In a study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, 40 college students were asked to hold their hands in ice water until they just couldn't stand it. Some of the volunteers were asked to think of their most enjoyable sexual fantasy, while others were told to envision a non-sexual scene, such as walking to class.

The results? Those who had their minds on sex were able to keep their hands in chilly water twice as long as their less preoccupied counterparts. Sexual fantasies, say the authors, are a compelling kind of relaxation imagery that distracts the brain from discomfort and thereby lifts your mood. The next time pain strikes, take two aspirin...and think of romance.

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How to Relieve Pain Without Medications Hospice Net
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