Why Love is Good for your Heart

Sure, we love the feeling of love, but did you know it’s good for your health, too? It’s true! Here’s how…

1. 1. Better Blood Pressure. Imagine that feeling you get when you snuggle up with someone you love. It’s warm and cozy. It’s that kind of feeling that actually works some magic on the inside, lowering your blood pressure, sometimes significantly. It even works when you love on your pet!

1. 1. An Electric Jolt. You know that heart-skips-a-beat feeling you get when you see someone you love deeply or even have a crush on? It’s a spike of electrical activity. Your brain releases good hormones like dopamine, adrenaline and norepinephrine, helping your heart to beat faster and stronger.

1. 1. Hugs Help. Nearly all of us have been asked when experiencing a hard time if we need a hug. There’s a reason for that! Hugs boost emotional health and help your body to release oxytocin, a hormone that helps to reduce stress and to lower blood pressure, both important to overall heath.

1. 1. The Love of Laughter. Laughter is a great mood lifter and has been deemed “the best medicine.” Research backs that assertion up. Studies show laughter can reduce stress and promote blood flow.

1. 1. Jot it Down. Gratitude journals are gaining popularity for good reason. The act of practicing gratitude can help you reconnect with loved ones, in turn benefitting your heart. One study showed that college students spending 20 minutes writing notes of gratitude to friends and family experienced drops in their cholesterol levels.

1. 1. Positive Feelings. A positive attitude is good for the body, mind and spirit. When you are feeling down, reach out to a friend, family member, or your partner, to help find the upside in whatever challenge you’re facing.

1. 1. Hold Hands. The act of hand holding, especially when experienced for the first time with someone, sends signals of love to your body, reducing stress and anxiety. Both are linked to elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate and weight gain.

So, show your heart some love by expressing yourself to those close to you!