Marriage from A to Z

Do you kiss like you really mean it?

Kissing like you really mean it was the topic of one on my conversations this past week.  A beautiful lady who is in her 70’s, took the time to share this concept with me.  She explained to me what it means to kiss like you really mean it.  My husband and I tried it and WOW!  Good things are worth sharing.  The goal of this week’s post is to encourage all married couples to evaluate their kissing.  Are you kissing like you really mean it?

I am specifically addressing this to married couples, because kissing like you really mean it can start something that should not be carried out by singles.  Do not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases. (Song of Solomon 2:7)

What does it mean to kiss like you really mean it?  Kissing like you really mean it is to be intentional about kissing for 15-20 seconds or longer.  Often times couples kiss as they are greeting or leaving each other, but these kisses are too short.  A short kiss is called a peck.  The dictionary defines a peck as a “quick, almost impersonal kiss.”  I find it interesting that it says almost impersonal.  In many cases, a peck is impersonal and it is done with very little connection to the person.  Therefore, this should not be the only type of kiss that married couples practice.  Kissing for long periods of time should be the goal of married couples.

Kissing like you really mean it has wonderful benefits!  I think every married couple should take on the challenge and see what happens.  Are you willing?  Studies have revealed that kissing is healthy and beneficial. “A kiss a day really can keep the doctor away.”   Here are 10 benefits of kissing that were shared on CNN by Andrea Demirjian, author of kissing:  Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about One of Life’s Sweetest Pleasures.”

Kissing . . .

1. Reduces your blood pressure
2. Relieves cramps and headaches
3. Fights cavities
4. Releases your Happy Hormones
5. Burns Calories
6. Boost Your Self-Esteem
7. Tone Your Facial Muscles
8. Helps to boost your immune system
9. Reduces Allergic response in people with skin or nasal allergies
10. Is a great prelude to sex

In Song of Solomon Chapter 1:2 the Shulamite woman says, “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth!  For your love is better than wine.”  I pray that every married couple will refresh and revive their kissing.  Be intentional about kissing like you really mean it on a regular basis.  

Until next week . . .

Carolyn