A 2013 study examining the possible functions of kissing in romantic relationships showed that, “Romantic kissing may be used in human sexual interactions to evaluate aspects of a potential partner’s suitability, regulate feelings of attachment between pair-bonded individuals, or facilitate arousal and initiate sexual relations. Kissing serves a useful mate-evaluation function, which is generally considered more important in the context of long-term relationships (but especially by women), and kissing frequency was found to be related to relationship satisfaction.”
In an interview with HT Lifestyle on International Kissing Day on July 6, Dr Jyoti Kapoor, founder-director and senior psychiatrist at Manasthali, explained, “Kissing has many psychological benefits. It can reduce the levels of stress hormones in our body, thereby increasing oxytocin and dopamine levels that bring about feelings of pleasure and bonding. It also increases the bond of trust and security between partners. It also promotes a sense of closeness and emotional well-being. Hence, regular kissing has been linked to improved mood, reduced stress, and improved self-esteem.”
However, did you know that apart from psychological factors like improving your mood and strengthening your relationship, kissing also improves health – both mentally and physically?
1. Weight loss:
According to some studies, you can burn up to 26 calories per minute. That’s more than 100 calories in less than five minutes or you can burn anywhere from 2 to 26 calories per minute, depending on how passionate your kissing is. This may not be directly linked to weight loss, but it will definitely keep you calm and stress-free, helping you stay happy.
2. Heart Health Benefits:
Did you know, kissing your partner can reduce the chances of having a heart attack? Yes, you read it right! According to experts, kissing can actually provide workout benefits as kissing can regulate your heartbeat, help lower your blood pressure, improve blood flow which boosts your overall health and helps in the dilation of blood vessels which can reduce your pain.
3. Dental hygiene:
Dating guru Jacob Lucas shared with Fruity Slots, “Saliva contains many substances that can fight bacteria or viruses. Since passionate kissing often increases our saliva flow, that can help keep our mouth, teeth and gums healthy. It also boosts our immunity because kissing brings us into contact with potential germs lurking in the other person’s mouth and gives our bacteria the ability to fight them off.” Kissing increases saliva secretion which helps fight plaque and cavities because the extra saliva washes bacteria off your teeth, helping to break down oral plaque, said Matthew Messina, DDS, a private practice dentist in Fairview Park, Ohio, and a consumer advisor for the American Dental Association. “Still, I wouldn’t advocate kissing after meals instead of brushing,” he added.
4. Toning the facial muscles:
Are you looking for a natural facelift? Kissing stimulates over 30 facial muscles, and regular kissing works out your face and neck. Exercising your facial muscles can also boost collagen production, making skin firmer and younger-looking. Blood circulation also helps you get a healthy glow!
5. Relief from allergies:
Kissing can provide significant relief from hives and other allergies related to pollen and house dust mites, as stress tends to make allergic reactions worse, but the effect of kissing can help reduce stress and subsequent allergic reactions.
