Why Kissing is Good for You

Smooching is Great Exercise

Did you know kissing has the power to burn off that cheeky Mars Bad you scoffed to help you study? Ok, you’d have to lock lips for a LONG time to burn a substantial amount of energy, but according to Bryant Stamford, a professor of exercise science from Hanover College in the US, a passionate kiss may double your metabolic rate (the speeds at which we burn energy). So it totally counts as part of your fitness regiment, right?! Plus, the 30 odd facial muscles that get a good ol’ workout when you’re tongue tied could help you stay wrinkle free!

It’ll Keep You Outta the Dentist Chair

You know what they say, a kiss a day keeps the dentist away… well, not really but maybe this should be your comeback if your dad goes psycho about your BF’s constant PDAs. The Victorian Health Department says kissing increases saliva flow, keeping you mouth, teeth and gums health and lowering plaque levels. A pash also exposes you to germs lurking in his mouth, strengthening your own immune system. Bonus!

Kiss Stress Goodbye

When you lock lips with someone, nerve endings signal our brains to produce ocytocin, the hormone the promotes calmness and wellbeing. During a good kiss, your breathing slows, your mind focuses on the task at hand and feelgood hormones rush through your body – just like if you were meditating or taking a relaxing bath. Hmmm, forget yoga, kissing is an exam stress buster we’re excited about!

Boost Your Self-Esteem

Who doesn’t feel envious after witnessing your mate blissfully smooching her guy? That’s coz sharing a kiss can make you feel secure and better about yourself, boosting your self-confidence. One study has even found that adult couples who kiss each other goodbye before heading off to work were more likely to live longer than those who kissed less. Psychologist and CEO of Relationships Australia, Anne Hollands, says the kiss is symbolic of the quality of the relationship. “It may be healthy and happy which mean more displays of affection – and this can lead to a positive attitude!”

It Could Help You Decide if He’s ‘The One’

Cancel your BFF chat session to discuss whether you crush really is boyfriend material, research suggests a ash could be all you need to decide if he’s worth pursuing. Author of The Science of Kissing, Sheril Kirshenbaurn says kissing is the ultimate way to express how you feel. “Kissing puts us in close proximity to sample other person’s natural odour, ” Sheril explains. Sound gross but read on! “Our sense of smell and taste help us decide whether to pursue a deeper connection with our kisser and whether the bond will last.”

Kiss-Off

Pashing isn’t all fun and games – there’s a small chance of spreading disease – causing bacteria and viruses while lip to lips. Yep, ew. Glandular fever, herpes, hepatitisB and warts are the more icky things that can passed on, but the everyday cold s the most catchy. So make sure your puckering-up partner s sickness free!