13 unexpected facts about kissing

On July 6, the World Kiss Day is celebrated, which first appeared in the UK. And two decades ago, it was approved by the United Nations. In many cities, various kissing contests are held on this day, the participants of which have a chance to win various prizes and gifts.

Did you know that most philematologists-scientists who study the physiology and psychology of kissing-agree that kissing is useful? A kiss as an important element of a romantic relationship exists in many cultures. On average, each person spends about 336 hours in his life on kisses. 

For this wonderful holiday, we decided to prepare a selection of informative facts about kissing.

Most people have more vivid memories of their first kiss than of their first sex.

From a biological point of view, a kiss is the most complete exchange of information with another person. Smell and taste are channels of chemical communication that tell us on a subconscious level whether a partner is suitable for us.

Kissing prolongs life. According to a study conducted in the 80s of the last century, men who kiss their wives before leaving for work are less likely to have accidents and have a higher income than those who do not.

There are communities in Asia, Africa and South America where kissing is not accepted. And in some states of America, kissing in public places is even prohibited.

Philemaphobia is a panic fear of kissing.

Kissing strengthens the immune system. When people kiss, they exchange bacteria. A fifth of the bacteria are individual, and new microorganisms activate the immune system and increase the protective properties of the body.

Kissing for a long time lowers the level of the stress hormone-cortisol, which helps to feel a sense of security.

Two-thirds of people tilt their heads slightly to the right when they kiss. The tilt of the head to the right when kissing is one of the most ancient examples of behavioral asymmetry and is the same sign of it as the preference for the right hand, ear or eye when squinting.

The world record for the longest kiss belongs to a couple from Thailand — Ekkachu and Lakshana Tiranarat. In 2013, the couple merged in a kiss for 58 hours, 35 minutes and 58 seconds.

During a kiss, about 146 facial muscles are involved. This kind of gymnastics for the face prevents the formation of wrinkles. And another minute of kissing burns 26 calories.

Scientists have found that there are special neurons in our brain that help us find the lips of a loved one in the dark.

During a kiss, the same neurotransmitters (chemical transmitters of impulses between nerve cells) are released as with increased physical exertion or taking cocaine. The heart begins to beat faster, the breathing becomes faster.

A kiss tones the body and at the same time relieves tension, the level of the stress hormone (cortisol) drops. The brain produces endorphins-endogenous opiates: they cause a feeling of joy and at the same time relieve pain.