Friday, February 13, 2015

Love & Longevity: A Valentine's Day Reflection on the Link

 



Since it's nearly Valentine's Day and love is in the air, I thought it appropriate to reflect on how love affects one's health.  There are many ways in which love (or loving relationships) correlate with improved health.  One consistent finding among research studies is that there is a strong link between love and longevity

Here are some interesting findings about love and health:

º  It was found that having strong social relationships predicts a 50% increased chance of longevity.

º  The attitude with with which we engage in relationships predicts a longer and healthier life. Research shows that the greatest benefits for longevity and well-being come not from receiving love but rather from giving love to others.

º  A new study on loving-kindness meditation - a practice that involves generating love and benevolence towards others - shows that people who practice generating love on a regular basis have reduced cellular aging (telomere length).

Neuropsychiatrist from the University of Caiforia, Los Angeles, Daniel J. Siegel, commented on recently discussed groundbreaking work in the longevity field at a conference held at the school's campus.  Reflecting on this information shared, he said, "Scientific studies of longevity, medical and mental health, happiness and even wisdom, point to supportive relationships as the most robust predictor of these positive attributes in our lives across the lifespan." 


References:
http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/24/the-brain-on-love/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/feeling-it/201304/the-best-kept-secret-longevity-love

Photo Source:
www.sottopellatherapy.com

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