Lots of evidence shows that spending time with pets benefits our mental health. If babies do not get enough cuddles or contact with a carer or parent the limbic part of the brain, involved in mediating our emotional responses, does not develop correctly. In later life they can struggle recognising or responding to emotions. There is something about physical contact with people and other mammals that stimulates the limbic system.

Charities now take pets into hospitals or to interact with those who are physically or emotionally traumatised, to stimulate limbic resonance, which we can call emotional connection.We all know that we can feel better simply by getting a hug from a good friend. Babies feel better when they make eye contact with their mother. We can also get this effect by stroking a dog or a cat.

So to keep happy, keep making those emotional connections and physical contact with the people and animals who are important to you.

Have you had enough hugs today? Have you spent time with someone who cares about you? Have you looked into the eyes of a loved one and smiled? If you live alone where is that physical contact and emotional connection going to come from?