Love is a feeling of deep affection and attachment. It’s also a complex mix of emotions and involves physical sensations as well as cognitive processes. Throughout history, people have tried to explain and define it, but it remains a mysterious experience that is different for everyone.
Whether it’s romantic, platonic, or familial, there are many ways to love someone. We love our family members, friends, and even animals (though we tend to think of them as “fur babies”). Our relationships with these individuals shape who we are and influence how we view the world.
In romantic love, we typically fall in with someone who satisfies our needs and values. We look for someone who has the right combination of traits, like attractiveness and personality. Additionally, we look for a good fit with our social circle and the person’s social status. When these needs and values are met, key brain regions in the ventral tegmental area, which process rewards and addictions, light up and flood the body with dopamine.
Over time, this can create a strong bond between two people and can lead to a sense of security and belonging. But it’s important to remember that this isn’t always a smooth ride. There will be days when we don’t feel all mushy-gushy, and maybe even moments that make us want to run away. But if we stick it out, it will be worth it. Then, we will look back on those hard times and see the beauty of a healthy relationship.