Chasing Thrills: Why We Seek Pain for Pleasure
The happiest people in the world are people who don't actually try hard to be happy, but do other things, and happiness comes along for the ride.
Ever wondered why some people love the burn of spicy food or the adrenaline rush from a horror movie? This episode of 'All In The Mind' dives into the curious connection between pain and pleasure. Host Lynne Malcolm unpacks why our brains sometimes blur the lines between discomfort and joy. She explores how experiences like eating hot peppers, watching scary films, or even engaging in BDSM can actually make us feel good.
It turns out, our brains don't just experience pleasure in straightforward ways; they thrive on contrasts and challenges. Through expert interviews and thought-provoking discussions, this episode sheds light on why we might seek out difficult experiences to achieve a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. But it’s not just about the thrill—understanding the difference between voluntary and involuntary suffering can lead to a deeper pursuit of happiness and purpose.
Tune in to discover why the happiest people might not be those who avoid pain, but those who find meaning in it.