1. The Biochemistry of Love: Hormones and Neurotransmitters

When we meet a person who attracts us, a real chemical storm begins in our body. Several key hormones are responsible for attraction and emotions:

Dopamine is the hormone of pleasure and motivation. It causes euphoria, a surge of energy and a desire to spend more time with the object of affection.

Oxytocin is the hormone of attachment. It is especially actively produced during physical contact (hugs, kisses) and helps to form trust.

Adrenaline and norepinephrine are stress hormones. They are the ones that cause increased heart rate, sweaty palms and that very trembling in the stomach.

Serotonin is the hormone of happiness. However, at the stage of falling in love, its level can decrease, which explains our emotional instability, obsessive thoughts about our partner and even a slight "obsession" with them.

2. "Butterflies" in the stomach: where does this feeling come from?

The phrase "butterflies in the stomach" is not just a beautiful metaphor. This is a real physiological process associated with the work of the sympathetic nervous system (the one responsible for the "fight or flight" reaction). When we see or think about a loved one, the brain regards this as an important event and activates the release of adrenaline. In response to this:

The blood vessels in the stomach area narrow, blood flows to vital organs (heart, brain, muscles - as in a reaction to stress), which is why we feel lightness or "tickling" in the stomach.

Digestion slows down as the body prepares for action (not for digesting food), hence the feeling of "losing appetite".

The heart starts beating faster and breathing becomes intermittent.

3. Why is love so strong?

In the early stages of a relationship, the brain works like an addiction. Research has shown that the activity of the brain in love is similar to the brain of a person who uses drugs: increased levels of dopamine make us crave communication with the object of attraction.

What's more, love reduces the activity of the prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for rational thinking. This is why people in love often make impulsive decisions, idealize their partner, and do not notice their shortcomings.

4. Why do "butterflies" disappear?

After 6-12 months, the level of hormones that cause intense emotions gradually stabilizes. The body adapts, and the "chemistry of attraction" weakens. But if there is more oxytocin (the hormone of attachment) in the relationship, then passion turns into a deep emotional connection. If there is not enough of it, the butterflies fly away, and with them the interest in the partner.

Conclusion: is it possible to prolong the "butterflies" effect?

Yes! Although intense chemical reactions inevitably fade, you can maintain passion:

Arrange unexpected dates and surprises.

Try something new together (trips, hobbies, extreme activities).

Do not forget about physical contact (kisses, hugs, gentle touches).

Openly share your feelings and desires.

Love is not only biochemistry, but also conscious efforts. And "butterflies in the stomach" are a wonderful reminder of the magic of attraction between two people.