This Thursday (13) is Kissing Day, the date when one of the most important ways to show affection is celebrated.

“Kissing provides a number of important health benefits, both physical and emotional,” says Claudia Petri, clinical sexology educator, member of the Brazilian Society of Human Sexuality and sex education specialist at the Federal University of Santa Catarina. .

Kissing on the lips releases testosterone, an essential hormone for boosting libido and sex drive. Photo: Nappy/Disclosure/ND

According to psychologist Monica Machado, founder of the Ame.C Clinic and a graduate student in psychoanalysis and mental health at the Albert Einstein Hospital Training and Research Institute, the act of kissing is pleasurable in any affective relationship, regardless of the type of kiss.

In addition, studies conducted by Arizona State University in the USA concluded that kissing is beneficial for health, including strengthening the immune system, and fighting stress. And even, in some cases, it can contribute to the functioning of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is activated when we are comfortable and relaxed.

Here are some of the benefits of kissing:

Reduces stress and promotes well-being

Kissing stimulates the release of neurotransmitter hormones such as dopamine and serotonin, which are responsible for feelings of pleasure and well-being, according to a study published at the Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. This can help reduce stress and improve your well-being.

“The more passionate the kiss, the more hormones are released. In addition, these neurotransmitters inhibit cortisol, a hormone that is activated during stress and causes various harms to the body,” says psychologist Monica Machado.

Increases libido during intercourse

Kissing on the lips is closely related to sexual desire in both men and women, it stimulates the release of testosterone, the main hormone responsible for libido and sex drive.

“If a couple kisses often, intimate relationships become much more enjoyable. The absence or rarity of kissing is a factor closely related to the lack of orgasm in women, erectile dysfunction and, as a result, the sexual dissatisfaction of the couple, ”warns Claudia Petri.

Strengthens the immune system

Kissing can boost the immune system, as the bacteria exchanged between secretions and saliva help the body develop greater resistance by producing antibodies and balancing immune defenses. However, if one of the people is sick, it is better to postpone the kiss.

“Medicine” for the whole body

Did you know that kissing can benefit the whole body? Kissing can burn two to three calories per minute by engaging 34 facial muscles and 112 muscles associated with posture. Also, excitement during a kiss can cause vasodilation throughout the body.

“The opening of the vessels, together with an increase in the pulse from 70 to 140 beats per minute, contributes to an increase in the amount of blood drained to the tissues. This intensification of blood circulation nourishes the cells, tones the skin and even relieves body pains such as migraines and headaches,” says Claudia Petri.

Kissing boosts self-esteem

A good kiss increases the production of oxytocin, known as the hormone of love and affection, and vasopressin, a hormone associated with strengthening emotional bonds.

“All this generates a sense of conquest, seduction, desire and satisfaction, increases self-esteem and self-confidence, which are necessary for a clear assessment of the situation, having realistic expectations and freeing your mind from unnecessary judgments,” Monica Machado concludes.