FRISKY FRIDAY FACTS: Why That New Year's Eve Kiss? It's Good for You

Tippy toe attempt to kiss…

First of all, why do we do it? How did the smooch become the ultimate “last minute” thing?

The reason why some people find kissing at midnight to be such an important New Year’s Eve tradition mostly has to do withsuperstition. According to English and German folklore, the first person you encounter in a new year — and the nature of this encounter — sets the tone for the rest of the year. So, why not start it with a kiss?

YourTango.com reveals more: “A kiss is about strengthening ties you wish to maintain in the future. If a couple that celebrates together doesn’t take the time to lock lips, legend holds that it doesn’t bode well for the relationship.” Many people believe that how you ring in the new year sets the tone for the rest of the year.

So, here are some unexpected upsides:

1. Kissing Brings You “Happy Hormones”…

Healthline reports that it triggers your brain to release a cocktail of chemicals, which “leave you feeling oh so good,” by igniting the pleasure centers of the brain.

These chemicals include oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, which can make you feel euphoric, and encourage feelings of affection and bonding.

2. Kissing Can Spread Germs, But That’s Not Always Bad…

One peck can contain up to 80 million new bacteria; and frequent kissing can change your microbiome, even offer some healthy benefits. Still, germs are germs, and you could import some of the icky ones, too.

3. Kissing also… relieves stress (lowers your cortisol levels), improves your self-esteem (makes you feel good about YOU), burns calories, prevents cavities by increasing saliva, reduces blemishes hormonally, lessens depression or anxiety and: It reveals compatibility.

Check out the full article in MENTAL FLOSS.