15 Surprising Facts About Kissing (That Will Blow Your Mind!)

Key Takeaways:

• Kissing habits start early.
• It requires serious muscle effort.
• Some kisses shaped history.
• Kissing holds health benefits.
• Research careers exist for kissing.

Let's be real — a good kiss can turn your entire day around. But beyond the butterflies and the warm fuzzies, kissing is much more than just a romantic gesture. The act of kissing holds secrets that go back centuries and even affects our health in surprising ways. Imagine knowing that the way you kiss might reveal more about you than you ever thought possible! Whether it's the way we instinctively tilt our heads or the surprising muscle power it takes, kissing is filled with quirky facts that could make your next smooch feel even more meaningful.

Today, we're diving into 15 surprising facts about kissing that will change the way you think about this intimate act forever. Ready to be wowed? Let's get into it!

Here are 15 surprising facts about kissing that will blow your mind:

1. Your kissing style actually starts in the womb.

Believe it or not, your inclination to tilt your head to the right or left when you kiss may have originated long before your first romantic encounter. Researchers suggest that our kissing preference comes from a behavior developed in the womb. Fetuses often turn their heads to the right during their last weeks before birth, which might explain why over two-thirds of people tend to tilt right when kissing.

According to a study published in the journal Nature, this early head-turning habit could impact how we express affection later in life. Isn't it fascinating how something as innocent as a kiss is rooted in our earliest experiences? It's like we've been practicing for our first kiss since before we even took our first breath!

2. Kissing involves serious muscle power.

We may think of kissing as a gentle, effortless act, but in reality, a passionate kiss requires quite a bit of muscle strength. When you lock lips, you're actually engaging up to 34 facial muscles, including the orbicularis oris, which is the main muscle used for puckering your lips. Not to mention, about 112 postural muscles come into play to keep you balanced and steady.

Dr. Gordon Gallup, a biopsychologist, explains, “Kissing isn't just about lips and tongues; it's a full-body workout that strengthens facial muscles, which can help prevent sagging and wrinkles over time.” So, the next time you're caught up in a romantic kiss, remember — it's practically exercise!

3. Our love for kissing might come from rats.

While that sounds bizarre, there's actually some truth to it! The origins of kissing may trace back to early mammals, like rats, who use their sensitive whiskers and lips to bond and communicate with one another. Some researchers theorize that humans adapted this behavior as a form of social bonding and intimacy.

Anthropologists believe that lip-to-lip contact could have evolved from our ancestors' need to exchange information about food, safety, or even potential mates. In a way, a kiss is more than just a symbol of love — it's part of our primal instincts. It's wild to think that a tender kiss might have its roots in something as unexpected as rodents, right?

4. The origins of 'XOXO' date back to the Middle Ages.

Have you ever wondered why “XOXO” stands for kisses and hugs? Its origins are much older than you might think, going all the way back to the Middle Ages. Back then, people who couldn't read or write would sign documents with an “X” to represent their name. To show sincerity, they would then kiss the “X” as a form of a sacred pledge.

Over time, the association between the “X” symbol and a kiss became so strong that it turned into a shorthand for affection in letters and, eventually, texts. The “O” symbol representing a hug was added much later, especially in North America. So the next time you send “XOXO” in a message, remember you're continuing a centuries-old tradition!

5. A king once banned kissing altogether.

Imagine living in a time where a kiss could get you thrown into prison! That's exactly what happened in England in the 16th century, under the rule of King Henry During an outbreak of the plague, the king issued a decree that banned kissing to prevent the spread of the disease. He believed that this drastic measure could protect his subjects from the deadly illness.

While this might sound extreme today, it reflects the lengths to which rulers would go to keep their populations safe. Interestingly, this decree wasn't the last time kissing got banned — during the flu pandemic of 1918, several countries followed suit. Sometimes, love literally had to take a backseat to public health!

6. French kissing once caused traffic issues.

Believe it or not, there was a time when French kissing was so distracting that it became a public safety hazard! In the 1920s, the practice of passionate kissing in public places, especially at train stations, caused chaos on the platforms. Couples saying goodbye would get so lost in their kisses that it delayed train schedules and caused congestion.

The Parisian authorities eventually had to put up signs in stations, urging couples to limit their passionate farewells to keep the trains running on time. While it may seem amusing today, it's a reminder that even the most romantic gestures can have unintended consequences. Next time you're kissing your partner goodbye in public, you might want to keep an eye on the time!

7. The 'luck of the Irish' includes a kiss.

If you've ever heard of the Blarney Stone, you know that kissing it is said to bring good luck. But the tradition goes beyond just smooching a rock. Legend has it that those who kiss the stone will receive the gift of eloquence — the ability to speak with charm and persuasiveness.

Each year, thousands of people from around the world flock to Ireland to pucker up for a chance at this mystical gift. The act of kissing the Blarney Stone is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a ritual that's been practiced for centuries. It's a little reminder that sometimes, a kiss is all it takes to change your fortunes.

8. Iconic movie kisses almost didn't happen.

Some of the most famous kisses in film history almost never made it to the big screen. Back in the early days of Hollywood, the Hays Code (a set of industry moral guidelines) strictly regulated what could be shown in movies. Kissing scenes were often cut short, sanitized, or even banned if deemed too passionate.

Take the iconic kiss between Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh in Gone with the Wind. Directors had to carefully navigate the rules to ensure the scene stayed within the code's limits. It's amazing to think that something so ordinary today was once considered scandalous. Thank goodness we can now enjoy these cinematic moments in all their unedited glory!

9. Some people have careers in studying kisses.

Yes, you read that right! There's an entire field dedicated to the study of kissing, known as philematology. Researchers who focus on this area dive deep into the science behind what makes a kiss so special. They explore the psychology, biology, and even the cultural impact of this universal act.

Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, explains that kissing is much more than a simple display of affection. According to her, “It's a complex exchange of information that helps us subconsciously evaluate a potential mate.” Imagine that — all that from a single kiss! And it doesn't stop there; philematologists continue to discover fascinating insights about how kissing influences our relationships and emotional well-being.

10. The longest kiss in history set a wild record.

How long do you think you could kiss someone without stopping? In 2013, a Thai couple set an unbelievable Guinness World Record by kissing for 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds. Yes, you heard that right — nearly two and a half days!

The pair not only showcased their endurance but also raised the bar for romantic gestures everywhere. The event, held as part of a Valentine's Day celebration, required participants to stay locked in their embrace without sitting, sleeping, or even using the restroom. It's safe to say that their bond must have grown stronger after such an intense marathon of affection!

11. Kissing might actually save lives.

Kissing isn't just good for your love life; it could also be good for your health. Studies show that kissing can help lower stress levels, boost your immune system, and even reduce blood pressure. But here's the kicker: kissing may also increase your lifespan.

One study from the 1980s found that men who kissed their partners goodbye before leaving for work lived an average of five years longer than those who didn't. This phenomenon might be linked to the stress-relief benefits of kissing, which releases oxytocin — the hormone that helps us feel bonded and relaxed. So, next time you kiss your loved one, you might just be adding years to your life!

12. Italians are considered the best kissers.

If you've ever dreamt of a romantic kiss under the Tuscan sun, there's a reason why. Italians are often celebrated as some of the best kissers in the world. Their passionate and expressive nature extends to their kissing style, making it an experience full of warmth and intensity.

According to a survey by travel site Expedia, Italy topped the list as the country with the most skilled kissers. And it's not just about technique — Italians see kissing as an art form, a way to communicate deep affection and emotion. So, if you want to improve your kissing game, maybe it's time to take a trip to Rome for some inspiration!

13. The average person spends about two weeks of their life kissing.

Ever wondered how much of your life you spend kissing? On average, people devote around 14 days of their entire lifespan to locking lips. While that may not sound like much, think of all the happiness packed into those moments!

Kissing plays a huge role in bonding with your partner, relieving stress, and just feeling good. So, if you're worried you're not getting enough quality kiss time, remember that every kiss counts toward your happiness bank. And who wouldn't want to spend more time doing something that's not just fun, but good for your health too?

14. Looking for your soulmate? Kiss this many people first...

If you're still searching for “the one,” don't worry — you're not alone. According to a study conducted by Match.com, the average person kisses about 15 people before finding their lifelong partner. It might sound like a lot, but each kiss teaches you something different about yourself and your preferences.

Think of it like a journey where every kiss brings you one step closer to finding that perfect connection. Each kiss with a new partner helps you discover what you like, what you don't, and what you can't live without. So, even if your kissing count feels high, just know that each one gets you closer to your fairy-tale ending!

15. Kissing brings remarkable health benefits.

We often think of kissing as purely romantic, but it turns out there's a lot more going on beneath the surface. When you kiss, your body releases a surge of feel-good chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. These neurotransmitters help reduce stress, promote happiness, and even strengthen your emotional bond with your partner. It's like nature's very own happiness cocktail!

Not only that, but kissing can also be a surprisingly effective workout. You might burn anywhere from 2 to 6 calories per minute, depending on the intensity. Sure, it's not going to replace your gym session, but hey, it's a pretty fun way to get your heart rate up. Plus, some studies suggest that kissing can improve your immune system by exposing you to new bacteria, helping to build up your natural defenses.

On a deeper level, the act of kissing helps us feel connected, which can alleviate feelings of anxiety and loneliness. According to Dr. Arthur Aron, a psychologist known for his research on intimacy, “Kissing can create an instant sense of closeness and well-being. It's a simple way to express care and affection that transcends words.” So, if you've had a rough day, a long, sweet kiss could be just what the doctor ordered.

Recommended Resources

• Why We Love: The Nature and Chemistry of Romantic Love by Dr. Helen Fisher
• The Science of Kissing: What Our Lips Are Telling Us by Sheril Kirshenbaum
• Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find — and Keep — Love by Dr. Amir Levine and Rachel Heller