We’ve all heard of being lovesick – not being able to eat or sleep because of a new infatuation. But did you know that there are health benefits of being in love?
Happiness
According to Harvard Medical School, when you fall in love, dopamine, the chemical in your brain that makes you “feel good”, is very active. This causes people to be happier and more positive. The increased level of dopamine may stay high even as your love matures.
On the flip side, when you fall in love you may experience a spike in cortisol, the stress hormone, as well as serotonin which is a mood-regulating neurotransmitter. These changes can be to be blame for obsession, anxiety and nervousness. Luckily, as your love grows, these levels will go back to normal.
Less Stress
Even though cortisol levels may rise when you first fall for someone, it can potentially lower your stress in the long run. Physical actions such as holding hands and kissing release oxytocin, the “love hormone,” into the blood stream. Oxytocin works to inhibit cortisol production and stress response.
Life Span
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, married couples, on average, live longer than people who are single. Studies have found that married couples, both men and women, are healthier than those who are single or divorced. This may be because partners can encourage each other to exercise, eat healthy, and go to the doctor regularly. Married people are more likely to take a medical issue seriously and get it checked by a medical professional. Studies have shown that those who are married are more likely to receive cancer treatment in the early stages, raising their chances for survival.
Whether you have just fallen in love or have been with your partner for twenty years, you both can reap the benefits of being happier, healthier and less stressed! Who knew cupid’s arrow was real?
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