Are you scheduled to have a shot some time soon? And if so, are you already dreading the mere thought of it? If so, you may want to start counting down the days until it's time. The hours, minutes, and seconds, too. Doing so may save you from feeling as much pain once the needle finally makes contact with your skin.

Japanese researchers found that patients who counted out loud while receiving an injection claimed to not experience any real pain. By contrast, those who didn't say anything while given the injection complained of discomfort and soreness well after the fact.

These findings support a separate British study, in which it was discovered that pain receptors become heightened if a person watches his or her self being stuck with a needle.

Apparently, by distracting your brain enough with counting, you are able to focus less on the pain from the needle.