Kisses are an expression of affection, affection, love and, between couples, also of eroticism, desire and pleasure.. The nuances of the kisses depend on the context, the person with whom you share them and the type of kiss in question.
Human beings are one of the few animal species that kiss, along with some primate species, such as orangutans. Kissing is thought to have evolved from a primitive feeding gesture between mother and child in which the mother chewed her food and passed it into the child’s mouth. On a more romantic and sexual level, they may have evolved as a mating ritual.
The lips are one of the thinnest layers of skin on the human body and are densely populated with nerve endings that allow us to capture temperature, taste and smell, signals that give clues as to what type of partner a person will be. That sensitivity is also the reason why the lips are an erogenous zone.
In addition to being something pleasant and a way to express feelings without the need for words, kissing can be beneficial for well-being. Some studies have shown that kissing improves skin health by stimulating collagen production, and helps burn calories.
On the other hand, sharing saliva can even improve the immune system through the microbiome. Kissing also opens blood vessels and can lower blood pressure.; In addition, kisses promote a state of relaxation through pleasure and the feeling of affection.
Kissing also helps couples connect. A study of The Archive of Sexual Behavior shows that kissing helps increase bonding and feelings of intimacy between couples.
When «deep kissing» is incorporated into sex, it also increases the likelihood of orgasm for women. In fact, some people can reach orgasm just by kissing (this is known as an oral orgasm).
Types of kisses and their meanings
French kiss: occurs between couples and has an erotic connotation. It includes a mix of kissing with the open mouth and the tongue, which is considered a sexual organ. While some couples like to get their tongues involved a lot in this type of kissing, others prefer something more subtle and opt for wet open-mouth kissing.
Kiss «piquito»: it is a subtle and light touch of the lips, which are usually closed and slightly pursed. This is generally what people are looking for with their first kiss, because it’s intimate without being overly sensual. It is a sign of affection and tenderness between couples.
Kiss on the forehead: it is a nurturing and nurturing gesture, and tends to indicate sweetness and caring rather than sexual attraction. Forehead kissing can occur between romantic partners, but is also commonly given to children.
Kiss on the hand: when a kiss on the hand is combined with a bow, it is often considered a sign of respect for diplomats or royalty. But it can also be a tender and loving gesture if there is a relationship of affection between the two people.
Kiss on the neck: Since the neck is a vulnerable part of the body, exposing it is generally a sign of flirting and shows that you feel comfortable and confident with the other. When a couple includes kissing on the neck or nape in the middle of a make-out session, it can be something very erotic and an invitation to go further.
Kiss on the cheek: It is a very common form of greeting among family, friends, and even among acquaintances. Usually, when it’s a hello kiss, it’s just a touch of the cheeks, but placing your lips firmly on the person’s cheek and staying there for a moment can add additional romantic meaning.
Lizard Kiss: This kiss occurs when the couple kisses without joining their lips, since only their tongues touch each other; for this reason, it is a type of kiss that is not to everyone’s liking. It can be incorporated into make-out sessions, interspersed between French kisses, usually as a way of adding more erotic charge.
Kiss on the top of the head: it usually comes from a parent or grandparent towards children and usually gives a feeling of security, comfort and familiarity. It can indicate the same sense of security when coming from a friend or partner, especially when combined with a hug from behind.
angel kiss: This type of affectionate kiss occurs when one person gently kisses the eyelid of the other. It can have many meanings, but it is often a tender, romantic gesture; and it can be especially sweet to kiss someone’s eyelids when they have cried, for support and comfort.
Kiss on the nose: It can be from lips to nose or from nose to nose. In general, it is a close and sweet greeting that can be given between parents and children, couples and even friends who are very close.
Cover image: Freepik