ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Neuroanatomy of intimacy

Okay, here's your ELI5 explanation of the neuroanatomy of intimacy:

Our brains are made up of different parts that help us understand and interact with the world around us. One of these parts is called the limbic system, and it's responsible for our emotions and social behavior.

When we feel intimacy (like when we hug someone we love or share a special moment), our limbic system gets activated. This sends signals to other parts of our brain, such as the hippocampus and amygdala, which help us remember the experience and feel good about it.

Additionally, our brains release certain chemicals called neurotransmitters during intimate moments. These include dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin, which play a role in feelings of pleasure, bonding, and happiness.

So basically, when we feel intimacy, our brains light up and release happy chemicals that make us feel good and connected to the people we love.