Scientists have explained how exposure to luxuries like designer watches, expensive cars and horse riding is associated with dramatically better health.
The long-established phenomenon has seen many attempting to gain the scientifically proven health boost of playing classical instruments and unflattened their vowels.
“Why this disparate range of products, services and choices should deliver big health benefits was a complete mystery,” says researcher Tom Phillips, who thought of an explanation.
“Endorphin release is a known mechanism in stress management, which in turn is associated with health benefits. Nice things could be a mechanism for it,” the study concludes.
Phillips’s study is the first to propose a single biological mechanism for the long running luxuries effect. One paper suggested jodhpur-compression reduces haemorrhage risk.
“Luxury goods are often seen as frivolous extras, but this work shows that they should rightly be seen as essentials to good health,” said the Jodhpur Manufacturers’ Association.
Other researchers say the explanation is that being better off is the key factor. We did not find time to talk to them because it would ruin a popular story. ■