A review by isachu
Hurts So Good: The Science and Culture of Pain on Purpose by Leigh Cowart

4.0

In Hurts So Good, science journalist Leigh Cowart seeks to understand why people voluntarily engage in physically painful activities. The book explores a wide spectrum of human experiences from religious self-flagellation in the middle ages, to pushing one’s body to its limits in ultramarathons, to eating the world’s hottest chili pepper. Merging science with her own sharp and compassionate insight, Cowart’s vibrant voice accompanies the reader on a journey of desire, bliss, brokenness, and grace.

(Note, the book does explore some pretty dark material and goes to some dark places – the readers should take care when reading this book)