Chemistry of Feelings: How Infatuation Affects the Body and Relationships

Infatuation is a remarkable state that fills our lives with emotions and feelings. But how do chemical processes in our body create this state, and what consequences can they have?

When we fall in love, our brain experiences a carnival of chemical reactions. This process can be divided into several stages: desire, passion, and attachment. During the desire stage, hormones like testosterone and estrogen become active, fueling our sexual attraction. This is a time of sexual activity and euphoria when we feel happy and full of energy.

However, there is a flip side to the coin. Passionately in love individuals often lose the ability to perceive reality objectively. Their thinking becomes contradictory, and their level of responsibility decreases. If relationships don't work out, this can lead to a bad mood, loss of appetite, and sleep problems.

At this stage, various chemical substances are activated, including dopamine, which creates a connection between a specific person and joy, phenylethylamine, responsible for a romantic mood, and serotonin, which gives a sense of happiness from meeting the beloved. Norepinephrine and adrenaline also play their roles, giving us a sense of boundless possibilities and mobilizing our bodies.

If infatuation turns out to be mutual, it can transition into a romantic phase and ultimately into attachment, forming strong relationships. However, it's essential to understand that constantly staying in the attraction stage is impossible, as it could interfere with a normal life and other activities.

During the attachment stage, our bodies produce two key hormones: oxytocin and vasopressin. Oxytocin, known as the "hormone of trust and friendship," promotes the formation of strong bonds and stimulates the release of joy and trust hormones. Vasopressin, linked to sexual arousal and the demonstration of love, also plays a role in strengthening relationships.

At this stage, our bodies start producing endorphins, often called "molecules of long-term love relationships." These natural "drugs" create a sense of happiness and satisfaction, strengthening the connection between partners.

In conclusion, the chemistry of infatuation and relationships plays a significant role in our lives, shaping our emotions and feelings. Understanding this process can help us better comprehend our own emotions and behavior in relationships, ultimately contributing to healthier and more stable relationships.