Love, a seemingly simple term, is one of the most profound and intriguing human experiences. It occurs in endless forms and is subjective to each individual’s experience of it. However, it is a vital part of life that can affect a person’s health and happiness.
The concept of love has a wide range of cultural and religious meanings. In a psychological sense, it is the feeling of closeness and attachment, often combined with passion and commitment. It can also have a strong spiritual significance.
In the context of romantic relationships, the word “love” is often compared and contrasted with infatuation, obsession, lust, narcissism and enlightened self-interest (metta). The feeling of being in love can lead to feelings of euphoria, pleasure, and an increased sense of connectedness and well-being.
Some scientific studies have indicated that people who are in the throes of romantic love exhibit increased activation in brain regions associated with reward and pleasure. Other research has found that the innate desire for companionship that is associated with loving another person may have more to do with social biology than sexual desire and arousal.
Other theories of love include bhakti, a devotional form of love that encompasses an elevated fondness for God or another entity. It is distinguished from kama, sensuous and sexual love, which is viewed as an obstacle on the path to enlightenment in Hinduism. Karuna, the compassion and mercy that reduces suffering, is an important component of bhakti love.