Our society remains mired in Original Sin, mistrusting anything not associated with denial and hard work. Pleasure-resistance causes breathing so shallow you can't be inspired by life, and an attitude so hardened you can't be spontaneous. We routinely deprive ourselves of pleasure, and yet scientific evidence suggests pleasure is good for us, says Resnick. It releases endorphins, dilates blood vessels and boosts immunity. Just as chronic pain, particularly emotional pain, is a precursor to illness, pleasure may prove to be the most important ingredient of a long, healthy life.
Pleasure is also good for the soul.
It is at the heart of motivation. Anticipating the pleasure of accomplishment is what drives us to clear hurdles. Think of the songwriter who stays up all night getting the melody just right. Intense pleasure takes the struggle out of life's challenges. When we embrace the splendors of the moment a musical note, a touch, a kiss we open ourselves to experiencing pleasure on a deeper level.