Looking on the Light Side

Loving Relationships are Good for Your Health

Having love in your life benefits your health, whether it's romantic, or a great friendship.

Love is in the air, and I hope you catch it! Regardless of what you’re thinking about your mate at this exact point in time, if you’re in love, your health and well being are benefiting. Studies have shown that being in a loving relationship triggers parts of the brain responsible for making us happy and content. Being in love, the researchers say, reduces stress and depression, strengthens our immune system, battles disease and lowers blood pressure. Also, oxytocin, a hormone that provides many of these benefits, is released into our bodies during “lovey-dovey” moments like when you hold hands or cuddle with your valentine. According to “Love Promotes Health,” an essay written by neuroscience researchers Tobias Esch and George B. Stefano…

• Photos (1)