The enjoyment derived from sneezing stems from a combination of physical and psychological factors.
The Physical Aspect: Pressure Release and Endorphin Release
The act of sneezing involves a forceful expulsion of air from the lungs, relieving built-up pressure in the chest. As explained by Boyer, "[t]he muscle tension that builds up in your chest causes pressure, and when you sneeze and the muscles relax, it releases pressure. Anytime you release pressure, it feels good." This pressure release can be inherently satisfying. Furthermore, sneezing triggers the release of endorphins, natural pain relievers and mood boosters. These endorphins contribute to the feeling of pleasure and well-being associated with sneezing. GetCleared explains that endorphins "are released by the body to help relieve pain, reduce stress".
The Psychological Aspect: Sensory Experience and Control
The intense physical sensation of a sneeze, the involuntary nature of the action, and the subsequent feeling of relief can create a unique and satisfying sensory experience. For some, the anticipation and the resulting release can be almost cathartic. The involuntary nature of the act might also lend a sense of surrendering to the body's natural processes, which could be perceived as relaxing or freeing. In contrast, a Reddit thread r/unpopularopinion reveals that the enjoyment of sneezing is a matter of personal preference, with some finding it a pleasurable experience while others dislike it.
Additional Considerations
While the reasons for enjoying sneezing are less studied than the reasons for having them, the underlying mechanisms are tied to the body's natural processes for clearing irritants and managing stress. The fact that sneezing is often associated with illnesses (which can sometimes bring a sense of relief from the underlying tension) may also contribute to the positive association some people have with it. Many factors influence the experience and should be considered.
