Limerence

In 1979, Dorothy Tennov, a psychologist and writer, coined the term limerence to describe the range of emotions and physical symptoms many of us feel when we fall in love, which include sweating, trembling, heart palpitations, ecstasy, agony, and acute longing. (Beyoncé knows of what she sings.)

Here is a partial list of chemicals that exert an enormous influence on us during this first stage of love:

  • Phenyleteylamine (PEA) is a natural form of amphetamine our bodies produce and has been called “the molecule of love.”

  • Pheromones, produced from DHEA, influence sensuality rather than sexuality, creating an inexplicable sense of well-being and comfort.

  • Ocytocin has been called “the cuddle hormone.” It compels us to get close, and when we are feeling close (to anyone) we secrete it.

  • It is secreted by the posterior pituitary gland, and stimulates the secretion of dopamine, estrogen, LHRH, and vasopressin.