Love is in the air. With Valentine's Day right around the corner, of course love is on everyone's mind. While this upcoming holiday tends to lean more on the romantic side, showing love isn't only for couples.
"I love you." Those three words hold great power. Whether you are saying them to your partner, child, parent, friend, or even pet, did you know showing love can give you a health boost?
There is a proven link between health and affection, especially when it comes to stress (and who hasn't been stressed this past year). Stress can be exceptionally taxing on your body: from disrupted sleep, to heart palpations, to weakening of the immune system, or irritation of the digestive system...but how does love combat that?
"[Love is] linked to the production of high doses of oxytocin – the ‘feel-good’ hormone, which regulates the production of cortisol. Oxytocin is like a magic potion and we’re only slightly exaggerating: oxytocin is linked to decreased cell death and inflammation, while at the same time increasing immunity and heart performance."
- Love Is All You Need: 3 Ways Love Can Improve Your Health, 2018
So, something as simple as slowing down and saying "I love you," giving a hug, or even giving someone a call to let them know you care not only makes them (and you) feel better but can positively affect an individual from the inside out!
We believe in the power of love: how it can change a bad day into a good one or help turn a good relationship into a great one. Therefore, we implore you to seek ways to make the important people in your life feel loved. It's good for the heart.