I’m often asked, “Does hugging your pet count?” And I think what people mean is “Will hugging your pet boost your levels of oxytocin?” One study showed definitively that contact with a dog that includes eye contact can give that coveted boost.

In this video Fei cuddles with her pug, Gadget. (An aside – I think Gadget is some kind of genius.)

Do you have a dog that likes to cuddle? Would you agree that cats would hate the #CSHolidayHugChallenge? Either way, it’s time for you to get our your camera and take the #CSHolidayHugChallenge yourself!

Here’s how it goes in eight steps:

1. Find someone who wants to do this with you

2. Get our your phone’s timer or practice saying “One-Mississippi-Two-MIssissippi…”

3. Figure out how to catch this hug on video

4. Hug for at least 20 seconds on video

5. Post it: #CSHolidayHugChallenge

6. Feel happier because you’ve enjoyed a long-ass hug

7. Feel like a good person because now other people will be encouraged to try it – because they want to be cool like you

8. Repeat

The Challenge is for December only, people. So GO GET HUGGING!