Love is a complex experience that encompasses attachment and deep affection. It’s a blend of physical sensations, cognitive processes and behavioral expressions. It’s hard to pin down and even harder to describe, but it is a powerful force that influences every part of our lives.
In fact, there are several types of love, ranging from the most sublime virtue or good habit to the simplest pleasure. Companionable love, for instance, often involves understanding a partner’s core values and life goals, creating a sense of partnership and companionship. Trust is also an important feature of true love, which requires honesty and respect.
Scientists, sociologists and just about everyone else has tried to figure out what makes your heart go pitter-patter for someone or why you fall head over heels, but the truth is that it’s all a bit of a mystery. Sure, there are some chemicals that get released in your brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine, when you’re around a person you find attractive. And that explains why your cheeks might feel flushed, and your palms might sweat as you talk to your crush or best friend.
But, if that’s all there was to love, it would be a pretty sloppy thing to hang your hat on. Lasting love cannot rely on hormones alone to hold it up, so you’re going to have to put in some work, too. It’s the kind of thing that requires patience, compassion and communication – and that means there are going to be days or weeks (or longer) when you don’t feel a giant wave of mushy-gushiness wash over you.