Next time you’re quivering above the Poubelle Couloir, keep in mind that fear is just a neurochemical overload in your brain. Then open wide for a squirt of Oxytocin Accelerator, an oral spray recently introduced in the U.S. by HBC Protocols.

Scientists in Zurich found that oxytocin—a hormone released during stress and sex—reduces activity in your brain’s fear center. Thus, HBC figures, more oxytocin equals less fear—and therefore bigger air and steeper chutes.

Whether a hill full of fearless skiers blissfully exceeding their abilities is a good thing was not addressed by the scientists.

 SKI MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL 2009