The Science of Tickling: Why We Lose Control

Tickling triggers:

1. Touch receptors signal the brain → interpreted as threat → "fight or flight" → heart rate/breathing rise, muscles tense.
2. Endorphin release – Pain-relieving, pleasure-producing hormones block tickle pain and induce laughter.

The combination makes body control difficult: muscle tension, endorphin-induced distraction, laughter impairing breathing.

Reactions vary—some enjoy it, others find it annoying/painful. Communicate boundaries if you dislike tickling.