LOVE REALLY CAN BE A DRUG The Power of Love
EYE ON THE BALL Book Reviews With Chris Ball
A big part of my journey to becoming a Financial Architect is my love of economics. I am fascinated by economic theory and how it shapes the world around us. All of our individual decisions around money impact our own personal economy as a whole. ‘BASIC ECONOMICS’ BY THOMAS SOWELL
It’s crazy to think that being head over heels, madly in love with someone can benefit your body in the same way that broccoli can, but it’s true! Science has proven that being in love comes with myriad health benefits. Fewer colds and natural pain control? Yes, please! Love triggers the “feel good” hormone, dopamine. When you first fall in love — and the butterflies are flying uncontrollably — dopamine is at very high levels, and mentally, you’re happy, healthy, and positive. As the relationship matures, oxytocin, also known as the bonding hormone, blends with dopamine and reduces stress. We all know that stress can lead to a number of health complications, so, the less stress, the better! New research has found that just being around someone you love can act as a natural pain reliever. Research has also determined that married people complain less about headaches and back pain. When your mind is happy, your immune system is stronger, making you less prone to getting a cold or stomach bug. Some research has even shown that happily married couples live longer than those who are not happily married. The hormone vasopressin helps to control your blood pressure. Being in love releases vasopressin into your body, keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level. Both your heart and lungs are also impacted by the love you have for another. If you aren’t in love, you can still reap the benefits through a strong and healthy social support system. When you have friends who bring you joy and happiness, even just a hug may help to release positive hormones and keep your health on track. Take time to invest in positive relationships to keep your heart and body healthy and happy, both literally and figuratively.
One of my favorite authors is Thomas Sowell. I have read the majority of his books and find him to be one of the great thinkers of our time. He is not afraid to challenge conventional beliefs on economics and the social impact of many economic policies. My introduction to Sowell was through his classic work, “Basic Economics.” Sowell reminds us right away that economics is ultimately about scarcity. We live in a world of unlimited wants and limited resources. Over a lifetime, we make countless decisions on how we use those resources. Those decisions require trade-offs. Sowell defines it this way: “Economics is the study of scarce resources that have alternative uses.” Spending our money on one thing means we’re not able to use it on something else. Most of us learned this very early in life. When my grandmother gave me $5, did I spend it on an action figure or new books? Did I save it for later to buy a larger item? As we get older, these principles never go away. The amount in question certainly changes, along with its impact on our future. These principles impact all aspects of our lives. Many of our decisions go beyond simple dollars and cents. Our time and energy are scarce. How will we use them? Choosing hobbies, education, and a career involves trade-offs. Recently, we’ve seen the unfortunate side of these principles in health care. Scarce resources try to battle a pandemic and address the myriad health issues people face on a daily basis. It’s a classic economic dilemma. Sowell covers the role of prices, markets, and costs across various economic systems. How does supply and demand compare to markets with price controls? What’s the difference between scarcity and shortages? These and many questions are answered in a simple, informative fashion. Understanding these principles is key to our own economic well-being as we strive to enjoy today and plan for tomorrow.
So, what are you waiting for? Let the love flow!
The information contained in this newsletter is derived from sources believed to be accurate. You should discuss any legal, tax, or financial matters with the appropriate professional. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Registered Representatives offer Securities through The O.N. Equity Sales Company, Member FINRA/SIPC (www.FINRA.org/ and www.SIPC.org). Investment Advisory Services offered through O.N. Investment Management Company and FAI Advisors, Inc., Financial Architects, Inc., FAI Advisors, Inc. is not a subsidiary or affiliate of The O.N. Equity Sales Company or O.N. Investment Management Company. We have representatives currently registered in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA, and WI.
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