25 minutes | Thursday, 3 September 2026
Dr Tara Swart reveals the surprising neuroscience behind love, attraction and relationships - from the hormones that drive bonding to the hidden signals our brains use when choosing a partner.
She explains why oxytocin is so important for love and trust, how stress can affect our relationships, why smell can be a powerful attraction signal, and what happens in the brain when a new relationship becomes sexual. Tara also explores why delaying sex may help create stronger bonds, and how evolution continues to influence who we find attractive.
We're Talking Relationship Neuroscience!
(00:00) Intro
(00:30) How the Brain Shapes Our Relationships
(02:32) The Key Parts of the Brain That Affect Relationships
(04:09) How Dr Tara Defines Love
(06:40) The Brain Chemicals Behind Love and Relationships
(13:00) How Smell Influences Romantic Attraction
(16:38) The Science Behind Physical Attraction
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