Love

• People use the word "love" to describe a variety of forms of affection — from "loving" one's favorite snack to "loving" a romantic partner.

• Other words describe different types of love, such as "eros," which describes erotic love, or "ludus," which focuses on playful flirtation.

• Terms that describe types of love also include "pragma," or pragmatic, mature love, and "philia," which describes friendship and mutual respect.

How are self-love and self-esteem different? We look for love, yet underestimate the importance of self-love. But we can only receive as much love as we give to ourselves. We’ll deflect or guard love that doesn’t resonate with us — like a compliment we don’t believe.

• Love involves some combination of intimacy, passion, and commitment.

• Cross-cultural research provides evidence that these components are universal.

• Of all the people in the world, there is likely just a handful at most in your lifetime with whom you will fall in love.

‘Daily stressors — specifically the minor, small inconveniences that we have throughout the day — even those have lasting impacts on mortality.’

According to research, love is a more expansive experience than you think.

Want to know how to increase self-love? Try these science-based strategies.