Brain In LOVE

I love it when a young man's eyes dilate, and his pupils respond as part of the autonomic nerve response. Anthony here for dnews, and we've all experienced that feeling of having a crush on someone – pulse racing, stomach full of butterflies, unable to get them out of our thoughts. But what's causing all that? What's going on in our brains when we're falling for someone?

A 1991 anthropological survey of 166 societies found that romantic love exists in 147 of them, indicating that we are inherently built to love. All those fluttering stomachs and sweaty palms are the result of systems specifically designed for these experiences. Unfortunately, the sweaty palm thing is just an evolutionary quirk.

When you meet someone special or see them, the fluttering heart and the rush of feelings are the result of neurotransmitters associated with alertness and influencing our reward system. These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in concentration, decision-making, and even the fight-or-flight mechanism – an evolutionary holdover from our wild days. Your body is trying to psych you up to approach that person, or perhaps flee from danger.

The butterflies in your stomach are part of the same instinctive response. Your body releases a surge of adrenaline, directing extra blood flow to your brain and muscles, leaving very little blood for your stomach, which leads to that fluttering sensation.

Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for the fireworks you feel when a new person is around – that pleasurable high. It used to be thought of as a simple reward neurochemical, but now we know it's more about novelty. When something unexpectedly feels good, dopamine is released. So, when you first meet someone and have a great time, your brain responds with excitement and happiness.

Dopamine also heightens attention, causes sleeplessness, and makes you more goal-oriented. That's why you can't think of anything but that person – it's all part of the process. People in new love also show lower than average levels of serotonin in fMRI scans. Interestingly, low serotonin is also found in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder.

While these physical reactions may seem exciting, psychologists and relationship experts advise caution, as they can mimic addictive behaviors. Chasing these intense feelings all the time might lead to mismatched and unstable relationships.

So, as we delve into the fascinating world of love and its effects on our bodies and minds, it's essential to recognize that while these chemical reactions play a significant role, love is a complex and multifaceted emotion. It cannot be reduced solely to neurotransmitters or evolutionary instincts. Love encompasses profound connections, emotional intimacy, and a deep understanding of one another.

While the initial rush of dopamine and adrenaline may ignite the spark of attraction, love extends far beyond those initial feelings. It involves shared experiences, emotional vulnerability, and the willingness to support and care for each other unconditionally.

Relationships built on the foundation of genuine love require effort and understanding from both partners. As the initial euphoria subsides, the relationship enters a more stable phase characterized by attachment and companionship. This stage involves the release of oxytocin and vasopressin, creating a profound sense of closeness and bonding between partners.

Love isn't solely limited to romantic relationships; it also exists in the bonds we form with friends and family. The joy of spending time together, the comfort of shared experiences, and the support during challenging times all contribute to the beauty of love in its various forms.

It's crucial to navigate the journey of love with mindfulness and self-awareness. As we strive to find genuine connections and meaningful relationships, it's essential to be conscious of our motivations and emotions. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, trust, and a genuine desire to uplift and support each other.

In the pursuit of love, it's essential to remain true to ourselves and avoid seeking validation solely from external sources. The journey to finding love is unique for each individual, and it may involve various experiences, heartbreaks, and lessons along the way.

As we explore the science and complexities of love, it's crucial to cherish and celebrate this profound emotion. Love is a gift that enriches our lives, bringing joy, happiness, and a sense of purpose. It encourages us to be compassionate, empathetic, and understanding, not just towards our partners but also towards ourselves and those around us.

So, as we continue to unravel the mysteries of love, let's remember that it's a beautiful, multifaceted force that touches every aspect of our lives. Embrace it, cherish it, and let it guide you towards building meaningful connections and fostering genuine, lasting relationships. And above all, love yourself, for it is through self-love that we can truly love and be loved by others