(NAPSA)—Locking lips, making out, smooching or tonsil hockey. No matter what name Americans call it, kissing is an essential part of everydaylife, according to a new nationwide study by William Cane, cultural anthropologist and author of “The Art of Kissing,” in collaboration with NIVEALip Care. Whyare kisses so essential for Americans? A great kiss has the power to elevate one’s mood and release a hostof positive biological effects. Almost half of Americans surveyed said a kiss is the best way to lift their spirits after a bad day. In contrast, less than a third of the respondents said the same about popular stress-busting activities such as sleeping, exercising or watching TV. In addition, nearly all Americans agree that a morning kiss from a loved one is the best way to start the day. “Such positive aftereffects are the result of an increase in levels of neurotransmitters that brighten mood and induce euphoria and a reduction in stress hormones, all physiological changes that occur during kisses,” says Cane. Almost 94 percent of Americans say they’ve had more than just a romantic kiss: They’ve been lucky enough to experience a truly great one. However, the impact of a great kiss differs by gender. Seven in 10 men say that a great kiss could actually makea relationship if they just started dating someone, compared to 55 percent of women whosay the same. Even more so, menare willing to go the distance for a great kiss. Over 51 percent of men say they’ve gone to extreme lengths to secure one compared to 31 percent of women. But women love to dish the juicy details of a good make-out session to friends. Fifty-eight percent of women admit that after a really 54 When it comes to romantic kisses, nearly half of those responding to a recent survey said good-looking lips are key. great kiss they’ve told a friend, family memberor even their ex. The one thing that both men and women agree on is that the key component to a great kiss is good-looking, kissable lips. Nearly half of Americans find dry or chapped lips a total turnoff while 68 percent of Americans say that when they are attracted to someone they would like to kiss, nicelooking lips are important. William Cane hasthe following tips to help everyone be a kissing pro: Relax and Be Confident: Confidence plays a key role in your kissing approach. You should relax your mouth and begin kissing your partner’s lips softly, then with moreintensity. Get Creative: Kissing is supposed to be fun, and a great kisser is one who experiments. Try different angles and different levels of pressure to give your partner a sweet surprise. Keep Lips Moisturized: Chapped lips are an instant turnoff. Keep lips fully moisturized with the help of a beauty product such as NIVEA A Kiss of Moisture—Hydrating Lip Care SPF4 to ensure that lips are always smooch ready.
