7 Benefits of Kissing and Hugging

Generally, people hug or kiss others because they are happy, excited, sad, or want to communicate how they feel. These activities can make your insides feel warm and fuzzy. However, their benefits go beyond want we see physically. Reports from research studies show that kissing and hugging can make you more confident, happier, and healthier. This article highlights 7 benefits of kissing and hugging.

1. Promote Good Moods

Kissing and hugging enhance the production of oxytocin i.e. the cuddle hormone’ which is usually associated with happiness. Oxytocin is a bonding hormone that improves good moods and promotes a long-lasting feeling of happiness.

2. Support Heart Health

Hugs and kisses are great for heart health. They both help to reduce blood pressure, stress and enhance a calming effect all of which are essential for heart health. The human-to-human contact helps to reduce the production of stress-inducing hormone and increase the production of pressure receptors.

3. Fight Dental Cavities

When you are kissing, the amount of saliva in the mouth normally increases. The high production of saliva helps to remove plaque which usually leads to the development of dental cavities. However, note that dental cavities can also be transmitted through kissing hence it’s important to kiss a person who has good oral hygiene.

4. Boost Self-Esteem

Reports from research studies indicate that men and women who receive kisses in the morning usually end up being more productive. As a matter of fact, one forehead kiss is much better than a dozen of lip kisses. A forehead kiss from your relative or partner makes you feel special, adored and loved. As a result, you will end up with a better sense of self-worth and this positively translates to your level of productivity. Hugs, on the other hand, help to reduce the feeling of isolation. People who hug often are usually reminded of their mortality and are normally aware of their existence.

5. Lower Stress

Kissing and hugging help to reduce stress. These two activities inhibit the production of cortisol, a hormone that’s associated with stress and increase the production of serotonin, a hormone that enhances good moods. Research shows that those people who hug or kiss regularly are usually less anxious and more relaxed.

6. Enhance Immunity

Although kissing and hugging are external physical activities, they have a huge impact on the immune system. They help to reduce stress which in turn helps to boost the functions of the immune system. Hugs are said to produce protective effects while kisses enhance the production of antibodies which kill harmful bacteria. Additionally, a hug is a form of touch that has the ability to reduce pain and improve the quality of life.

7. Enhance Relationships

There is no better way to communicate your feelings with loved ones other than using physical forms of intimacy. A good kiss helps you to understand how your romantic partner feels about you. On the other hand, a good hug helps to enhance feelings such as trust, safety, belonging, and security. Kissing and hugging make the basic foundation of healthy, thriving, and long-lasting relationships.