Credit: iStock Love is described in many ways, both good and bad: “Love is blind” is first attributed to English author Geoffrey Chaucer. American author and activist Helen Keller said love is like a beautiful flower. According to the (perhaps jaded?) Greek philosopher Plato, love is a “grave mental disease.” Love is also physiology. Our … Continue reading Love, Physiology Style
Valentine’s Day
All We Need Is Love?
Credit: iStock Hunger. Thirst. Sleep. Sex. The motivation to satisfy these physiological needs are what propels humans forward as a species. These are called “physiologic motivators,” which are primal instincts that continuously drive our behavior. Emotions like anger, sadness and happiness are fleeting—they only last a few seconds to a few minutes. Their role in … Continue reading All We Need Is Love?
For the Love of a Dog
Apollo Archimedes' love for his human may also have boosted her health. Credit: Jessica Taylor During February, thoughts of love and relationships are in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches. Chocolate hearts pepper both television ads and candy bowls for good reason: The heart has long been a symbol of many forms of love. Physiology … Continue reading For the Love of a Dog
23 and We? Mating for Life Could Be Genetic
Spending Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart might just take on a new meaning ... an evolutionary one. Even though we live in an era in which endless opportunities for a mate are just a swipe left or right, science suggests that maybe we all have that one special someone out there. Social monogamy is the … Continue reading 23 and We? Mating for Life Could Be Genetic
Why Marriage Is Good for Your Heart
Valentine’s Day is a time when many of us reflect on the importance of our closest relationships. Whether they include family, friends or a significant other, science is not silent on the impact these relationships have on our health. A review of 148 studies reveals that strong social relationships are associated with a 50 percent … Continue reading Why Marriage Is Good for Your Heart
Go Ahead, Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve!
In medieval times, a jousting knight would wear the colors of the lady he was courting tied around his arm. Hence, the phrase “Wear your heart on your sleeve” was born. Today, we use this romantic phrase to describe someone who expresses their emotions openly. How applicable that ancient phrase really is to maintaining a … Continue reading Go Ahead, Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve!