The Neuroscience of Love & The Art of Yearning

(Valentines Episode)In this episode, we explore the neuroscience of love and the concept of yearning, particularly during the Valentine's season. We discuss how love and emotional connections are rooted in biology, highlighting the brain's reward system and the effects of attraction on mental health. The conversation delves into the psychology of attachment styles and how they influence our experiences of yearning and relationships. We emphasise the importance of platonic connections and how they can trigger similar emotional responses as romantic relationships, ultimately underscoring the significance of social bonds in our lives.Thanks for listening 🌹📚 References & ResourcesThe Neuroscience of LoveThe Science of Attraction: Why Do We Fall in Love? – Boston UniversityThe Brain on Love: Understanding the Reward System – Harvard Medical SchoolLove, Lust, and Attachment: The Chemical Stages – OsmosisNeuroscience: What’s Love Got to Do With It? – PRISM Brain MappingThe Science Behind Sexual Attraction – PasanteThe Psychology of Yearning & AttachmentWhat Exactly Is Yearning? – The Good TradeThe Art of Yearning: A Cultural Return – Vogue AdriaPsychology Today: The Deep Meaning Behind Valentine’s DayAttachment Styles and the Biology of Longing – American Psychological AssociationFriendship & Social ConnectionWhy Similarity Drives Attraction – BBC BitesizeValentine’s Day: Beyond Romantic Love – The Counselling PlaceDeep Dives & StudiesTED: The Brain in Love (Helen Fisher)Reward, Addiction, and Emotion Regulation Study – NIH (PMC)