Perhaps the Beatles were on to something when they proclaimed: “All you need is love” with such conviction back in the ‘60s. Sure, the Fab Four were likely referring to love in a more general sense as something that can improve our lives, but science is beginning to show that being in love doesn’t just cause warm and fuzzy feelings. It can actually lead to some significant health benefits, especially for your heart.

Many recent research studies have shown that people in loving relationships have a lower death rate compared to those who are single. Other studies have found that those who are in a healthy, supportive relationship are more likely to have high self-esteem, which reduces their chances of depression and anxiety. Another study has even gone on to show that married people are more likely to survive and have a better recovery from heart problems than those who are not married.

Other health benefits of being in love include better stress management, fewer colds, faster healing from injuries, and the list goes on. It also seems that these perks don’t only result from our significant others, as strong friendships, bonds with family members, even love for your pet can lead to general health and cardiovascular benefits. So, where does this “power of love” actually come from.

One theory is that blood pressure responds to calmness and peace, so the state of being in love can lower blood pressure. Studies have confirmed that a happy marriage is good for blood pressure, which can lead to other health improvements.

But most of the biological effects of love have to do with a chemical called oxytocin. Often referred to as the “cuddle hormone” or “bonding hormone,” oxytocin is made in an area of the brain called the hypothalamus and is released during loving encounters with others. Some oxytocin is released into the bloodstream but most of its effects occur in the brain, and we notice it when we feel good around loved ones.

Oxytocin lowers the levels of stress hormones in the body, which helps to boost happiness, fine-tune communication skills, improve everyday relationships and reduce stress and anxiety. It should come as no surprise, then, that people who are in strong and loving relationships have higher levels of oxytocin than others. Physical contact such as hugging and holding hands itself can increase oxytocin levels, and mothers who hold their infants longer can boost levels for them both.

It should be clear by now that love does more than just make us feel good. It actually makes our bodies run more efficiently with less stress, and can lead to significant long-term changes. If you needed any more reason to go out and love the people—and even pets—in your life, here it is. If only John Lennon were still around today…

For more information on love and health, click here. For any aches or pains you may be experiencing, call 301-853-0093 to schedule an appointment with CAM Physical Therapy and Wellness Services in Hyattsville, Laurel and Glenn Dale/Bowie, MD.