We all know that love feels good “ it improves our mood, makes us feel silly and giddy “ but it actually goes beyond that.
Studies show that not only does love get our hearts metaphorically thumping, it also helps us live longer, healthier and happier lives. Read on to learn about some of the ways love is good for you.
It boosts your immune system
It’s true “ love is an immune booster. While scientists don’t know exactly how love works to shore up immunity, studies show that people in loving relationships report fewer colds and flus than those who are single.
It’s good for your heart
Spending time with someone you love “ or even thinking about them “ causes your heart to beat faster and stronger, improving your circulation. And since people in love tend to be happy and content, this translates to lower risk of heart disease.
It lowers your blood pressure
Happy couples have lower blood pressure than their single counterparts. This is linked to contented couples reporting less stress, anxiety and depression “ all of which contribute to high blood pressure.
It improves your memory
Being in love activates the region of the brain where memories are formed and stored. Increased levels of dopamine trigger the growth of new brain cells which can improve memory and make you smarter.
It alleviates pain
We can’t mention the physical benefits of love with out mentioning the benefits of getting physical: sex is great exercise. It helps to reduce cholesterol levels and alleviate pain “ so no more using a headache as an excuse to avoid getting busy.
Feeling too tired to get it on? Sex is also a great sleep-aid, and proper rest is linked to less stress and better health.
It lengthens your life
People in intimate relationships have lower death rates than singles in almost every age group. But don’t think that being married will solve all your health woes “ women in unhappy marriages suffer from more health problems than their happily coupled or joyfully single friends.
It just feels good
People in healthy intimate relationships are more likely to experience joy and have a higher sense of well-being than those with an absence of romantic love in their life.
Missing a significant other? Surround yourself with a strong social network of friends and family to reap the psychological benefits of having a partner. When it comes to your mental health, social connections are just as important as romantic ones.
What’s the greatest thing love has done for your body or mind?
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