Everyone knows that love makes us feel good, but did you know that there are real scientific reasons behind this? Here are some of the most surprisin
Everyone knows that love makes us feel good, but did you know that there are real scientific reasons behind this? Here are some of the most surprising and scientifically proven effects love has on your mind and body.
1) Love is a natural pain reliever
We all know that hugs comfort and feel good. Recent studies have shown that oxytocin, a chemical in the brain that creates a feeling of calm and is released during a hug that lasts from 10 to 20 seconds, can effectively combat pain, especially headaches.
Just looking at a picture of your loved one increases your stamina and reduces pain to 40% in moderate cases and 15% in severe cases. Our brain perceives our partner’s image as a gentle distraction making us more tolerant of any kind of pain, and so this has a sedative effect.
Scientists have also proven that sexual stimulation, especially marital intercourse, prevents pain, which is especially effective for chronic back pain, arthritis symptoms, and cramps.
2) Love takes care of your heart
Studies show that expressions of love cut your heart rate in half. This is most effective in stressful situations and reduces the risk of heart disease in the long term.
Besides, Oxytocin, known as the love hormone and believed to be one of the most amazing molecules in the world, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, reduces regular and social anxiety, boosts self-esteem, and helps us avoid and combat depression.
3) Love helps your body fight disease
Movements related to love, such as holding the hand, increase the production of endorphins which in turn boost our immune system. Likewise, people with physical conditions surrounded by love have a better response to treatment and a stronger motivation to fight disease.
4) Love treats insomnia
The two love hormones “oxytocin and endorphins” are related to the secretion of cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress, and thus naturally promote comfort. It has also been scientifically proven that the “hormonal reconfiguration” that occurs when making love is one of the most effective treatments for a good night’s sleep.
5) Love reduces the potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms
Opioids, cocaine, nicotine, and alcohol are addictive because they affect the levels of dopamine in our bodies, and dopamine is the hormone responsible for the sudden burst of pleasure and pleasurable effects.
Curiosity has a similar effect as well. In addition to releasing dopamine, it also enhances the release of the hormones testosterone and oxytocin, which are the best combination for avoiding and combating addiction.
In other words, falling in love fills your life with the pleasure and ecstasy that you need. But at the same time, feeling loved when fighting addiction helps you overcome quit symptoms and reduces cravings.
6) Love enhances longevity
Surveys show that people engaged in meaningful relationships enjoy better health and benefit from a healthy lifestyle, including food choices, regular meals, better rest and less stress.
Also, attachment helps people process physical conditions faster. This has basically proven that people in love tend to live longer.
7) Love is a Psychiatric treatment
People resort to psychotherapy for many reasons, but most of the time it is because they want someone to listen and understand them. Of all the specialists in the world, the person most able to provide you with an effective holistic “treatment” is the partner you love.
Supporting loved ones and their affection is the main mental and physiological “medicine” that you need to deal with phobias, depression, social anxiety and your physical condition.
