1 Minute Habit for February 4

Pet or Cuddle an Animal (Real or Stuffed)

Cuddling an animal reduces stress and releases feel-good hormones.

Interacting with pets can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and boost oxytocin (the bonding hormone).

Even if you don’t have a pet, hugging a stuffed animal or watching animal videos can have calming effects.

The act of petting or cuddling creates a sense of warmth and relaxation.

Lowers stress and anxiety.
Boosts mood and emotional well-being.
Encourages a sense of connection and comfort.

📖 Supporting Research:

River Landings Animal Clinic - 5 Scientific Reasons to Cuddle With Your Pet Every Day

💡 Actionable Tips

Spend a few minutes petting or playing with a pet.
If you don’t have a pet, visit an animal shelter or watch calming animal videos.
Use a weighted stuffed animal for similar relaxation benefits.

🧠 Why This Habit Matters

Petting or cuddling an animal—real or even stuffed—triggers the release of calming, bonding hormones that help lower stress and boost feelings of comfort.

Connecting with something soft and alive (or even something that represents care) reminds you to slow down, be present, and invite warmth into your day.

🔄 How to Adapt This Habit

💼 For Busy Professionals:Keep a small pet plushie at your desk for comfort.
👶 For Parents:Encourage kids to bond with their pets through gentle petting.
📚 For Students:Take a break and pet your cat or dog before studying.

💬 Join the Challenge

### 🐶🐱 Show Some Love Drop a picture of your pet or tell us what animal brings you joy!

🌱 Be part of the habit community — follow us on Instagram @1minutehabit and tag us to share your journey!

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Do you currently have a pet or animal in your life?

Call or Text Someone You Care About

Write Down One Act of Kindness You Did Recently

💬 Your Success Stories

I live in a small apartment and can’t have pets, but I have a stuffed dog I’ve had since I was a kid. Every morning, I give it a hug before I start my day—it sounds silly, but it brings me comfort. On especially stressful days, I visit a nearby dog park just to watch the dogs play. Even just being near animals makes everything feel lighter. There's something about their presence that quiets the noise in my mind and reminds me to slow down and just be present.

✨ Share Your Success Story

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