ways in which your brain can strengthen you

I read an interesting article today about how handling money is more effective at pain relief than Aspirin.

"Researchers at the University of Minnesota carried out a series of studies which revealed those who counted money before taking part in an experiment where they were subjected to low levels of pain felt less discomfort than those who did not.  The results, published in a recent edition of the journal Psychological Science, showed those who had handled money reported less pain and lasted longer.  A University of Los Angeles team of scientists found just looking at a photograph of a loved one can also be a powerful form of pain relief.  They recommended anyone visiting hospital for painful tests or examinations should bring a picture to help them cope.  And patients who have had major surgery, such as a knee or hip replacement, can halve the amount of painkilling medicine they need simply by stroking a pet, according to tests at Loyola University in Chicago."

What I really love about this is that it highlights what I've been harping on about this entire time - that a great deal of what you can withstand depends on how much of your brains capabilities you can force yourself to use under pressure.  It seems that determination and resolve could only be half of the picture.  If trained properly, your brain can generate its own pain relief.

(article here).