A romantic relationship has a positive effect on mental and physical well-being and prolongs life. This is what the results of scientific studies show. “Feeling loved and cared for improves emotional well-being by reducing depression and anxiety and increasing psychological strengths such as self-esteem and self-confidence,” writes Linda J. Waite, professor of sociology at the University of Chicago. According to his research, being in a romantic relationship improves not only mental health but also physical health.
Other American scientific studies show that the positive effect on health depends decisively on the quality of the relationship. Only a good romantic relationship, in which the partners enjoy emotional and social support, strengthens the body’s own defenses, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, prevents obesity and also protects against anxiety and depression. This is the result of a study conducted at Penn State University, among others, in which 1,150 people were interviewed four times in twelve years.
Hormone production at full speed
Much research has looked at the effects of love on the body. Estrogens, androgens, and the binding hormone called oxytocin provide feeling of general well-being. Neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine are very active. They act on the reward center in the brain, make you feel euphoric ! The adage “Live on love and fresh water” finally has a scientific explanation, young lovers are literally “doped” by their hormones and need nothing … But after a few months, the activity of neurotransmitters and hormone production returns to normal.
“Living on love and fresh water” finally has a scientific explanation, young lovers are literally “doped” by their hormones and need nothing …
The kisses: the circulation gets going
When two lovers kiss, the production of adenosine triphosphate is stimulated. Thus, the respiratory rate increases, the heart beats faster, the circulation begins, the vessels dilate and the blood flow improves. This strengthens the body’s defenses and a boost of energy sets in.
Holding hands: pure relaxation
The contact of the skin between two lovers, as when holding hands, has a relaxing effect. The reason ? The brain commands the muscles to give in, the breathing becomes shallower… re-lax!
Sex: alternative medicine for men and women
It is a real cocktail d’hormones who is released during sexual acts. In the short term, it relieves pain of all kinds, including severe migraines. In the medium to long term, regular sex has several positive effects on the health of men and women through its influence on hormone levels, as it increases testosterone levels. In women, for example, it may alleviate menstrual cramps, and in men, it prevents prostate problems. In addition, regular intercourse in both sexes makes it possible to fight against vascular calcification and bone loss, prevent heart disease and circulatory and relieve stress-related tensions.
We therefore wish you an excellent Valentine’s evening!
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