Love Lab: How do you make a relationship last?
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If you're lucky enough to have found somebody to have a relationship with, the next challenge is keeping it alive.
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Scientists have discovered that oxcytotin is the brain chemical most commonly associated with trust and long-term relationships. When we hug or kiss our oxcytotin levels soar.
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In the last of our films in the Love Lab series Michael Mosley asked two couples to try experiments designed to stimulate oxcytotin. The aim? For science to kick start things between our pairs so they will feel more affection for each other.
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The first test saw our couples discussing questions about intimate areas of their lives. Scientists believe this facilitates the release of oxcytotin.
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Next the pairs were asked to intimately stare into each other's eyes forÌýfour minutes. Prolonged eye contact is thought to stimulate oxcytotin, which is how infants bond with their parents and adults to each other.
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After both tests our couples reported feeling closer and more affection for their relative partner.
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But what do you think? Is maintaining love down to science? What are your secrets to a long-lasting relationship? Tell us here.
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For more information:
³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Relationships site
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Plus: Play our Love Quiz.
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Also: Watch video of Richard Attenborough talking about his marriage that has lasted for 63 years
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Graham Norton, Kelly Brook and Will Young get romantic in our video exclusive.
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