Thursday Thoughts: Having a Valentine Affects the Body

Thursday Thoughts: Having a Valentine Affects the Body

Happy Valentine’s Day! Did you know that having a valentine affects the body? It is scientifically proven to have health benefits. Having a valentine, a partner, or experiencing any form of love has implications on the body. Continue reading more about the power of love!

Scientifically Proven Love

Love has the power to heal, sympathize, and maybe even as a preventative medicine. We know that there have been multiple studies that suggest that people with strong support systems survive diseases at a higher rate than those who do not. This can be due to love, affection, and mental strength.

When we show love or affection in the form of compassionate words, hugs, kisses, and touch, we affect the body in different ways. The science of love suggests that when we feel loved, our blood pressure lowers, stress is reduced, a release of the “feel-good” chemical dopamine fuels our brains, and a boost is given to our immune system. It may also help with mental disorders such as anxiety, and depression.

Ways to Show Love

There are many ways to show love, and everyone does it in their way. A few ways to show affection to loved ones include:

• Calling or texting people to tell them you care
• Meeting with family or friends
• Buying someone a small treat
• Listening
• Regular visits
• Communication

Self Care

Self-care is just as important as giving and receiving affection. Taking care of yourself means that you take agency over your mental health, feelings, and physical well-being. It can range from practicing positive thoughts to performing positive activities. The following is a list of self-care steps that can vastly improve one’s mood and image of their self:

• Exercising
• Eating well
• Taking time for yourself
• Practicing positive thoughts
• Meditation
• Skincare
• Getting the required amount of sleep
• Saying no
• Not overextending yourself to commitments
• Seeing a therapist
• Treating yourself
• Picking up an old hobby

Final Thoughts

Do you have a Valentine’s this year? Do you have any special plans today? Did you know that love is an important component in well-being? Do you have any self-care steps that we did not write? Did you know that pets play a role in our lives as well? Comment below!