How Kissing Under the Mistletoe Became a Thing
Team MyMuse - Nov 19, 2024
Ever wondered why kissing under the mistletoe is a thing? The origins go further back in time than you’d imagine! Get ready to see the mistletoe in a whole new light this holiday season!
The enchanting custom of kissing under the mistletoe is a familiar sight during the holiday season. This romantic practice conjures images of love and merriment, a timeless slice of festive cheer hung in doorways around the world. But where did this tradition originate, and how did it come to be synonymous with Christmas celebration? In this deep dive into the history of kissing under the mistletoe, we'll explore its ancient origins, cultural significance, and how you can have the perfect kiss under the mistletoe!
What Even Is A Mistletoe?
So, you've been hearing all about kissing under the mistletoe, but what exactly is this sprig of greenery you're puckering up under? Mistletoe is more than just a cue for holiday kisses - it's a fascinating plant with its own unique traits and uses.
Botanical Basics:
Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant found in the canopies of apple, oak, pine, and various other trees. Unlike most plants, it doesn’t grow from the soil but rather attaches itself to trees, from which it draws water and nutrients. Recognisable by its smooth-edged, evergreen leaves and waxy, white berries, mistletoe is a fixture in winter landscapes, its berries ripening just in time for the holiday season.
Cultural Significance:
While it's renowned for its role in Christmas traditions like kissing under the mistletoe, it also has a place in the natural ecosystem. It serves as a crucial food source for birds and other wildlife during the harsh winter months. Mistletoe has a rich presence in folklore and is celebrated for its mystical qualities, symbolising peace, love, and vitality. So next time you find yourself under a bunch of mistletoe, remember it's not just about sparking holiday romance - it's also a key player in winter ecology and cultural lore.
How Did Kissing Under The Mistletoe Become A Thing?
The history of kissing under mistletoe is hard to pin down to just one event. This plant was used as a symbol of peace across time, all over the world.
Ancient Beginnings
Way back before it decked the halls, Mistletoe was the ancient world’s equivalent of a superplant. Druids, old-school Celtic priests, were really into it - so much that they used golden sickles to harvest it. They believed this plant, which thrived in the dead of winter, had some serious magic powers, from healing diseases to boosting fertility. So, naturally, it was pretty VIP at their winter solstice bash.
The Roman Connection and the Festival of Saturnalia
The wild festival of Saturnalia was where everyone got to flip the script for a week. During Saturnalia, the social order was inverted in a spirit of festive equality. Slaves would dine at the master’s table, and masters would serve their slaves. It was a period of unrestrained revelry that lasted from December 17th to December 23rd, coinciding with the winter solstice. Mistletoe’s role during these festivities likely included rites of fertility and protection, given its venerated status in European folklore. The kissing under the mistletoe may have started as a ritual act or a reconciliation gesture during Saturnalia, embodying the festival's themes of harmony and renewal.
Scandinavian Myths and the Story of Baldr
Norse mythology gives us the drama of Baldr, the god whose life was as soap-opera-worthy as they come. His tragic tale involves love, betrayal, and a nefarious plan by Loki (because of course it does). When Baldr was killed with a mistletoe arrow, the gods agreed that mistletoe would never again be used as a weapon and should instead promote love. In this mythological context, kissing under the mistletoe could be seen as an act of remembering Baldr’s story and celebrating the life-affirming powers of love and forgiveness. It's a tradition that underscores the themes of resurrection and renewal - key tenets of many winter celebrations, including Christmas.
The Victorian Era: Codifying the Custom
Victorian England was the place where mistletoe really got its moment to shine as the ultimate holiday matchmaker. In Victorian society, Christmas evolved into a family-centred festival of generosity. The mistletoe kiss became a popular game, reflecting a break from the usual decorum and an opportunity for potential suitors to steal a chaste peck, which was a daring flirtation for the time. The ritual of plucking a berry from the mistletoe with each kiss added a layer of playfulness and scarcity, heightening the excitement. Kissing under the mistletoe was a way for young couples to interact within the bounds of decorum and spend Christmas together with the mistletoe providing a socially acceptable outlet for expression of affection.
Literary and Popular Culture Influences
Fast forward a few centuries, and mistletoe started popping up everywhere in books and poems, thanks to literary giants like Washington Irving and Charles Dickens. Authors and artists of the 18th and 19th centuries often depicted mistletoe in their works, not only as a decoration but as a catalyst for romance and connection. Kissing under the mistletoe in literature helped solidify the mistletoe's association with Christmas. Each mention or depiction of mistletoe in literature and art reinforced its romantic connotations and helped spread its popularity across the Victorian social spectrum and beyond. These cultural artifacts helped transition mistletoe from a pagan symbol into a mainstay of Christian holiday deco.
Modern Day Celebrations and Symbolism
Today, kissing under the mistletoe is still all the rage. It's that perfect excuse to pause the holiday hustle, cozy up to someone special, and share a magical moment. It’s about more than just tradition; it’s about creating connections and making memories, whether it’s a peck on the cheek or a moment of rom-com-worthy passion. So next time you spot that mistletoe hanging in the doorway, go ahead and channel your inner romantic hero or heroine. After all, it’s not just festive - it’s legendary!
How to Kiss Under the Mistletoe
Alright, you've spotted some strategically placed mistletoe and you're ready to partake in this legendary holiday tradition. But how do you go from standing under the mistletoe to actually sealing the deal with a kiss? Whether it's your crush, a significant other, or a fun, consensual moment with a friend, here’s a playful guide to make the most out of your mistletoe magic:
1. The Setup
First, make sure you both end up under the mistletoe. You can casually guide your chosen kiss partner to the spot or let them discover the mistletoe themselves. A simple, "Hey, look what we’re standing under!" can kick things off .
2. Read the Room
Before you pucker up, gauge the other person’s reaction. Consent is key! A mutual giggle or a smile is a good indicator, but make sure everyone is comfortable and onboard. If you’re not sure, it’s perfectly fine to ask, "Can I kiss you?” Keeping it light and fun is the way to go.
3. The Approach
If it’s clear that both of you are game, lean in slowly. This isn’t a race; it’s more like a slow dance. Eye contact can add a layer of connection, turning a simple peck into a memorable moment. If you’re feeling extra festive, a compliment before you dive in can set a really sweet tone.
4. The Kiss
Keep it simple and sweet. A gentle peck on the lips or cheek works perfectly and keeps things friendly and festive. If the chemistry is right and you both want something more, who are we to say no? Just stay attuned to each other's comfort levels.
5. The Aftermath
Smile and step back. A quick "Merry Christmas!" or "Happy Holidays!" adds a nice touch to round off the moment. Continue enjoying the party or whatever festive setting you’re in. Remember, the best part about kissing under the mistletoe is the light-hearted spirit they bring. If you’re kissing someone you are already intimate with, it might be the perfect time to give them a Christmas gift from MyMuse!
The custom of kissing under the mistletoe is a delightful blend of history, mythology, and cultural tradition. As we hang mistletoe in our doorways each holiday season, we are participating in a centuries-old tradition that has evolved yet retained its core symbolism of fertility, peace, and love. Whether it's in the playful context of a party or a more intimate moment between lovers, this festive tradition continues to foster connections and create cherished memories, year after year. So the next time you find yourself standing under a sprig of mistletoe, remember the rich history behind this simple act and embrace the joy of the season.
