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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Wired for Love summary
Stephanie Cacioppo
A Neuroscientist's Journey Through Romance, Loss, and the Essence of Human Connection
23 mins
Brief summary
Wired for Love by Stephanie Cacioppo is a guide to understanding the neurological foundations of love and how we can use this knowledge to improve our relationships. The book offers practical tools and techniques to help couples build strong, healthy connections.
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Wired for Love
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Key idea 1 of 5
Love blossoms inside the brain.
The language of love is all about the heart. We say: “You stole my heart,” or in the opposite case, “You broke my heart.”
But actually, these phrases would be much more accurate if we said “You stole my brain,” and “You broke my brain.” But that just sounds plain wrong! It transforms love from something deep and profound into something banal, grotesque even. And yet, it is the case that love starts, grows, flourishes, and ends in the brain.
So let’s start with the aspect of love that’s easiest to understand: attraction. Attraction is well understood by biologists. We know that it happens incredibly quickly – we can assess the suitability of a prospective mate within less than 200 milliseconds of first seeing them.
We also know many of the factors that drive attraction. And, as strange as it might sound, one of those things is ourselves. One study showed participants photographs of themselves photoshopped onto the bodies of the opposite gender. Both men and women failed to recognize themselves and rated their own photo as the most attractive of the bunch!
Another thing that plays a critical role in attraction is smell. We tend to be attracted to people who have scents that are different from our own. Why? Well, our scent is influenced by our immune system. And offspring produced with someone whose immune system is different will inherit more ways of fighting off disease.
So that’s the story of “love at first sight.” But what about what happens in our brains when we begin to fall in love deeply?
At that point, the brain begins releasing a cascade of neurotransmitters and chemicals. These have a major effect on our mood and the way we perceive the world. Falling in love triggers a region of the brain called the ventral tegmental area, which is – coincidentally – heart-shaped. This pumps dopamine into the brain and triggers the same regions that are activated when we eat delicious food or drink wine.
But that’s not where the story ends. Falling in love also increases the production of norepinephrine, which distorts our perception of time. This is what makes it feel as if time is flying, and that we’re laser-focused on every moment with our beloved. Simultaneously, serotonin levels drop, which might cause irregular eating patterns or obsessive thoughts about the person we’re in love with. Finally, physical contact with a lover triggers the release of oxytocin, the hormone that increases feelings of empathy and trust.
So, in short, there’s a lot going on when we fall in love! But what exactly is the point of all this? Is love just about helping us identify and pair with a mate? Or is there something more going on? Let’s explore this topic further.
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What is Wired for Love about?
Wired for Love (2022) combines fascinating neuroscientific research with a captivating personal story to reveal some of the secrets behind that great human mystery: love. Love is often thought of as a topic best left to poets and musicians – but it can and should be studied as a legitimate scientific question. In a world that is constantly throwing up new challenges to romance, from online dating to global pandemics, an understanding of and respect for love is more important than ever before.
Wired for Love Review
Wired for Love (2012) is a fascinating exploration of the neuroscience behind romantic relationships and how to cultivate healthy, lasting connections. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- This book offers a deep understanding of the brain and emotions, helping readers navigate the complexities of love and strengthen their relationships.
- Through practical exercises and real-life examples, it provides valuable tools and strategies to improve communication and build trust with your partner.
- With its accessible language and engaging storytelling, this book makes the science of love fascinating and definitely not boring.
Who should read Wired for Love?
- Hopeless romantics
- Neuroscience and psychology fanatics
- Anyone who is, has been, or wants to be in love
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Wired for Love FAQs
What is the main message of Wired for Love?
The main message of Wired for Love is that understanding the brain's wiring for love can improve relationships and enhance emotional connection.
How long does it take to read Wired for Love?
The reading time for Wired for Love varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Wired for Love a good book? Is it worth reading?
Wired for Love is a valuable read. It provides insights into neuroscience and offers practical advice on improving relationships, making it worth your time.
Who is the author of Wired for Love?
The author of Wired for Love is Stephanie Cacioppo.
What to read after Wired for Love?
If you're wondering what to read next after Wired for Love, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Why Love Hurts by Eva Illouz
- Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche
- How to Love Someone Without Losing Your Mind by Todd Baratz
- Become What You Are by Alan Watts
- Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller
- The Fine Art Of Small Talk by Debra Fine
- It’s Not You by Sara Eckel
- The Law of Success by Napoleon Hill
- Uncommon by Mark Divine
- Untangling You by Kerry Howells