A curious problem we all share is that irritating itch.  The skin contains countless sensory receptors that transmit sensations to the brain.  Itching sensations follow the same paths along the nervous system as pain sensations.  A low level of stimulation sends an itch signal, but a high level of stimulation sends a pain signal.  So a modest amount of sunburn causes itching, but more causes pain.

The itch can be triggered by many things, including allergies, heat, medication and skin parasites like scabies.  Exposure to irritants typically results in the release of histamine which causes itching and redness.  So, one of the most common treatments for itching is to use antihistamines.

A mosquito bite produces severe itching because mosquito saliva induces an immune reaction in us, bringing histamine-releasing cells to the wound.  One remedy for this is the application of a small amount of meat tenderizer.  It breaks down the protein molecules in mosquito saliva and thereby quickly stops the itching.

We often counteract itching by scratching.  This seems to provide a competing stimulus which tends to block out the itch message.  When you're relaxing, the itch may seem more pronounced because it has no competing stimuli.  And like yawning, thinking about it only encourages it!

So next time you itch, go easy with the scratching and try to ignore it.  It may go away!

MOVING BEYOND MATTER
by Debbie Hughes

 
Skin is wonderful.  It offers us protection from the elements:  keeping us cool by radiation and convection in the summer, and warming us in those chilly temperatures through the mechanism of shivering.  Skin has sensors for pain as well as pleasure.  

Without the ability to sense pain or temperature or pressure we would be vulnerable indeed.  We wouldn't be alerted to either a caress or an injury.  Our life is enriched and safeguarded by the sensitivity of our skin.

Sometimes we talk of people being thin-skinned or thick-skinned.  Of course this really has nothing to do with actual depth in millimetres!  More specifically, it refers to sensitivity or insensitivity within the context of social situations.  And of course we tend to compare others' reactions to our own standard of normal, that is ourselves!

Genetic predisposition and behaviour learned through experience and observation all contribute to our sensitivities.  We are each a unique blend of ingredients.  It is an interesting and oft times profitable pursuit to try to understand why people are reacting to a certain situation in a particular way.  It not only contributes to developing a better sense of the person, it also may inform us with a new perspective on the situation.

One thing I value in my friendships is that they give me feedback.  They correct erroneous thinking and challenge me on my actions and reactions.  This is not usually a heavy handed session, it occurs in the natural course of conversation and interaction.  Friends help us to test reality.  Did I overreact in that situation?  How would you have handled this experience?

Of course, it becomes necessary to choose one's friends wisely in order to get the kind of feedback which is both accurate and helpful.  We need to count on their good perceptions and their sincere interest in helping us to grow in character.  Today, consider the influence of your friends.  The wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.