Endorphins

Science Sonnets

Aerobic exercise, I understand,
Can activate a peptide in my brain.
It’s made in the pituitary gland.
It lessens muscle cramps and eases pain.
And here’s a list of ways to stimulate
Releasing of endorphins: acupuncture,
Orgasms, laughter. Have you got that straight?
Apparently there is a real conjuncture
Of sex and laughing, laughing while you run,
Climaxing while you’re getting stuck with pins,
Climaxing while you’re jogging—any one
Such combination, and relief begins
With twice as much effectiveness. I’m here
To test these theories as a volunteer.

—Henry Rathvon

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