Discover intriguing details about the history, significance, and surprising benefits of kissing. From ancient traditions to health impacts, learn how this universal gesture connects us. Plus, find out about the quirky records and unique customs that make kisses so memorable. Celebrate World Kissing Day with these enlightening insights!
- Definition: A kiss is oral contact with a person or object, and its study is called philematology.
- Origins: Theories suggest kissing started from mouth-to-mouth feeding, though it wasn’t universal in all cultures.
- Historical Significance: Kisses had important roles in Roman, Christian traditions, and even medieval feudal agreements.
- Health Benefits: Kissing involves 34 facial muscles, increases dopamine and adrenaline, reduces cortisol, and burns 7 kcal per minute.
- Bacteria Exchange: Up to 80 million bacteria are exchanged per kiss, affecting mouth flora and sometimes spreading illnesses like herpes.
- Eyes Open or Closed: Only 3% of women and 37% of men kiss with open eyes. Most people tilt their heads to the right.
- Animal Kisses: Bonobos kiss similarly to humans; other animals kiss for different reasons like food exchange or social bonding.
- Record Kiss: The longest recorded kiss lasted 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds by Ekkachai and Laksana Tiranarat.
- Regulations: Some places have rules about kissing, like bans on train crossings in France or on Sundays in Michigan.
- Mistletoe Tradition: Kissing under mistletoe is believed to ensure lasting love, provided the mistletoe is cut and burned correctly.
World Kissing Day is celebrated on July 6, promoting the enjoyment and significance of kisses.
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