Fun Holiday – World Kissing Day

While the exact origins of the unofficial holiday are unknown, it is thought that it began in the United Kingdom. It has now become popular throughout the world.

While kissing is one the most recognized gesture in the world, it holds culture-specific meaning and importance. In some cultures kissing between people of opposite sex is frowned upon while in others kissing is seen as a symbol of intimacy and is only reserved as a way to convey love. In many other cultures, kissing can be a sign of respect, greeting or friendship.

Theories of Kissing

Anthropologists and scientists have proposed two different theories of why humans kiss. The first theory is that kissing is a behavior that evolved from kiss feeding - where mothers fed their children chewed-up food through their mouths. The second theory suggests that kissing is an instinct that humans have had throughout the history of humankind. A study published in the journal, Nature, found that two-thirds of people tilt their heads to the right while kissing.

This holiday is also sometimes known as Kissing Day or International Kissing Day.

How to Celebrate?

• Steal kisses from your sweetheart throughout the day. Sometimes, the best way to tell someone you care is to give him or her a quick peck on the cheek.
• Also remember to avoid onions or garlic that day, unless you want your loved one to celebrate Avoid Kisses From Your Loved One Day!

Did You Know…

...that kissing involves using 34 facial muscles? Humans have a total of 42 facial muscles.