Did you even know there was a National Kissing Day? National Kissing Day, also known as International Kissing Day, was established in the United Kingdom in 2006. The primary purpose of this day is to celebrate the act of kissing and the many benefits it brings, both emotionally and physically.
Fun facts about kissing
Burns Calories: Kissing can burn between 2 to 6 calories per minute. While it’s not a substitute for a workout, it’s a fun way to burn some extra calories.
Increases Happiness: Kissing triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” which helps to increase feelings of happiness and bonding between individuals.
Boosts Immunity: Swapping saliva during a kiss can introduce new bacteria to your body, which can help boost your immune system.
Improves Dental Health: Kissing increases saliva production, which helps wash away plaque on your teeth, reducing the risk of cavities.
Reduces Stress: Kissing lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone) in the body, helping you feel more relaxed and less stressed.
Longest Kiss: The most extended kiss on record lasted 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds. Ekkachai Tiranarat and Laksana Tiranarat set this record from Thailand during a Valentine’s Day event in 2013.
Health Benefits: Regular kissing can help lower blood pressure, relieve cramps and headaches, and improve cardiovascular health.
Kissing Muscles: The primary muscle is the orbicularis oris, often called the “kissing muscle,” which allows the lips to pucker.
Kissing Through History: The first recorded kiss comes from India around 1500 B.C. Ancient Indian texts describe lovers coming together, noses touching, and mouths becoming one.
Cultural Variations
Not all cultures kiss in the same way, or even at all. In some cultures, kissing on the lips is uncommon, and other forms of showing affection are preferred.
France
La Bise In France, kissing on the cheeks, known as “la bise,” is a standard greeting. The number of kisses can vary by region, typically two to four.
Romantic Kissing France is often associated with passionate and romantic kissing, famously called the “French kiss,” which involves open mouths and tongues.
Japan
Reserved Affection In Japan, public displays of affection, including kissing, are less common. Kissing is generally considered a private act.- Cultural Shifts While traditional views still hold, younger generations in urban areas are becoming more open to public affection.
Middle East
Cultural Norms: In many Middle Eastern countries, public displays of affection are not customary and can even be frowned upon or prohibited.
Respectful Greetings: In some places, men may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, but this is often reserved for close family and friends.
Russia
Cheek Kissing: In Russia, it’s common for friends and family to greet each other with three kisses on the cheek, alternating sides.
Affectionate Culture: Kissing is a familiar gesture among close friends and family members.
Philippines
Mano: Instead of kissing, a typical gesture of respect is “mano,” where one takes an elder’s hand and presses it to their forehead.
Cheek Kissing: Cheek kissing is also becoming more common among friends and family, influenced by Western cultures.
At Scott Harvey Wines, we celebrate International Kissing Day with our Just One Last Kiss wines. We hope this information enhances your kissing pleasure.