The Scoop Behind The Day Of Grand Romantic Gestures
A day of grand romantic gestures, affection, gifts, cards, and candy. A day of love! But why do we do it really?
Let’s start by taking a look at the. origins of Valentine’s Day. Tracing its roots all the way back to ancient Rome, this day of romance actually began as a pagan celebration of fertility.
Christianity later becoming the dominant religion in Rome, the holiday was transformed into a Christian celebration honoring Saint Valentine, a priest who was martyred for performing secret weddings for couples.
The tradition of celebrating St. Valentine’s stuck and Valentine’s Day grew into the celebration of romantic love we know today.
But why? What is the driving force that draws us to romantic love and compels us to have such a grand showing of it every year that we spend a fortune on candy, flowers, and other gifts and execute grand romantic gestures on its behalf?
Let’s talk biology.
Love is a complex emotion whose roots are deeply embedded in our biology. Feelings of romantic love cause the simultaneous release of two chemicals in our brain of which the results are felt as rewarding and pleasurable.
dopamine: a chemical that creates feelings of pleasure and reward.
oxytocin: release of this chemical creates feelings of attachment and bonding.
Together, these chemicals create intense feelings of both passion and intimacy. Romantic love.
Aaaah, but that’s not all! Where would romance be without attraction?
Psychology and biology partner up.
We are attracted to people we perceive as physically attractive, as well as those who share our values, beliefs, and interests. While our environment certainly plays a huge role in both of these factors, it’s our biology that drives the ultimate choice. Our “romantic radar” is biologically wired to seek out partners who are compatible with us in terms of reproduction and survival.
And, finally, let’s take a look at some of the ways cultural and societal influences play a role:
Media portrayals of romance and love are influential in shaping our expectations and attitudes toward romance and relationships. In a similar fashion, social norms and expectations work to influence our behavior and choices when it comes to love and relationships.
There you have it. A triple whammy if you will.
Biology. Psychology. Culture.
I think it’s pretty safe to say, Valentine’s Day is here to stay.
Romantically partnered or are on your own, the roles biology, psychology, and culture play in creating and sustaining a holiday such as this illustrates the importance of human connection. So, whether romantically partnered or on your own, you can enjoy celebrating the connections you have in your life today.
Have Valentine’s Day!