Thursday, February 14, 2013

Brain on love.

What happens in our brain when we are 'on love' ?

The neurologists have mapped the changes in our brain that occur when we are falling in love. The frontal cortex: vital to judgment, shuts down when we fall in love. MRI scans show this de-activation occurs only when someone is shown a photo of the person they adore, causing them to suspend all criticism or doubt. When we look at someone we are passionate about some parts shut down and some areas get activated. Some scientist truly believe the brain may behave in this way for ‘higher biological purposes’: simply for reproduction, but that doesn't sound very romantic. The put-to-sleep area also includes one  that controls fear and negative emotions. 




Numerous studies have shown a high levels of Dopamine, the key hormone to our experiences of pleasure and pain: (S&M ?) that links to euphoria, lust, addiction (!). Drugs such as cocaine have a similar effect on our brain. There's no joke in saying: 'Love is a drug'. 
Because the level of Dopamine gets higher than usual, our body experiences a reduction of Serotonin, a key hormone in our appetite and moods. It all links us to people with OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder). And also explains why in love we feel often jittery. 

What gives us a kick ? It's Adrenaline.
It brings all psychosomatic symptoms, such as faster heartbeat, dry mouth, sweated palms. Its amount also rises when we are frightened. The conclusion: people even a bit attracted to one another might fall in love if they experience some exciting or scary event together.  
Lure of forbidden love ?

I truly recommend this video on TED. Lecture by Hellen Fisher.

http://www.ted.com/talks/helen_fisher_tells_us_why_we_love_cheat.html

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