The truth is, like you say, that we have needs. A need for intimacy, both physical and mental.
Sometimes we like to believe that love is something that transcend the normal reality. But when we give up the idea that love is divine, we cease to "understand love" because it all becomes superficial and such an obvious chain of events, biology and chemistry. THAT is when we say "I don't understand love" because we don't want to accept the simple truth of how earthbound it really is.
That's my case anyway. Whenever I "don't understand love" is when I want to hang on to the illusion that your partner is supposed to be this great blessing. But that's the most stupid and selfish thing you can expect! How can one dare to expect this poor person, who is very much just another human being, to be a blessing entity?
Maybe love is better served with some ice to cool it off. And an umbrella just to keep it entertaining.