Why I'm excited about the Eucharist

I have recently noticed positive changes in my life following the celebration of the Eucharist.  Which leads me to wonder more about this sacrament and it's meaning.  The meaning of the Sacrament has been obscure to me despite having been confirmed in the Catholic Church.

The Soul and the Spirit Part 1

I'll not quote the cliche, but I do get a definite sense about a persons eyes.  Most of the time, I just pick up on the degree of clarity which I take as an indicator of overall health, but every so often, I get a really strong sense, usually in the positive.  Those are the times that my impression is of something greater, more along the lines of (I use these terms creatively) a pure or vibrant spirit, a kindred spirit, a young soul or an old soul.  It's unmistakable when it happens, or is shown to me (it doesn't happen at my will).

What is the soul?  Is it separate from the body?  Does it depart the body when we die?