Contrary to what movies and storybooks tell us, our feelings and emotions do not come from the heart. They actually come from the brain.
In this second part of a special outtake of my Clubhouse session, I dig into the neuroscience of love, relationships, and heartbreak. I explain certain terms like synaptic pruning and neurotransmission. I then talk about how specific neurochemicals and hormones work when you meet someone, get into a relationship, or get out of one. I also weigh in on attraction, lust, and ghosting, offering advice so that you can better deal with strong feelings or emotionally-driven situations.
Hope you enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
- Dopamine is the chemical that makes us want something or someone
- Serotonin stabilizes our mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness
- Oxytocin plays a role in social bonding, reproduction, and the period after childbirth
- Phenethylamine acts as a releasing agent for dopamine and other chemicals
- On pheromones, vasopressin, testosterone and estrogen
- On takotsubo cardiomyopathy or “broken heart” syndrome
- Set some rules or guidelines so that you don’t just go with your feelings
- Loving someone and being in a relationship can lead to amazing experiences but it’s not always easy so be kind to yourself
Quotes:
- “Feelings and emotions are largely the produce or the effect of these chemicals going across the brain.”
- “Oxytocin allows you to empathize more easily with people.”
- “Being attracted to someone and actually acting on that are two different things.”
- “As soon as you get heartbroken, you’re also having your future broken.”
- “When you fall in love with someone, your brain is actually blind to the negatives.”
Resources:
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