We often think about emotions as mental states: our mind's feelings and thoughts about emotional experiences. But emotion is also physical, isn't it? Every feeling we think about is also felt in our bodies, but how does that work?
What About Nice Emotions?
Joy, love, excitement, interest or just feeling content… Happy emotions all have, and often start with, physical feelings. That warm feeling around your heart when you're with someone you really like. The tingly, happy kind of tension that comes with fun and excitement. The relaxed muscles you feel when you're content or satisfied.
Those bodily changes are influenced by neurotransmitters. Oxytocin, sometimes called “the love hormone,” gets released during social interactions, such as when people hug or are comforted. Oxytocin encourages and supports brain and body activity…
