Lockdown can be a lonely time for many. After months of social distancing, with new national lockdowns being imposed across Europe, forcing people to reduce contact with people outside their household again, many dread a winter where they won't be able to hug their loved ones.

The Belgian government has come out with what is, if not a solution, a good compromise to this problem – allowing each person to choose a knuffelcontact, or cuddle contact, outside their household.

Under new measures imposed in the country with the return to a national lockdown on Monday, Belgians are allowed to choose one person they can uniquely hug, kiss and snuggle with.

Each family member is entitled to one cuddle contact and families can have one cuddle contact over at a time. People who live alone may have two cuddle contacts, but not invite them over at the same time.

Numerous studies have proved that hugging has health benefits and touch-deprivation can cause higher levels of anxiety and stress. Seeking physical contact is inherent to human nature – especially during stressful times as people yearn for the comfort of physical affection to reassure them that everything is going to be fine.

Belgium's decision to allow selective physical contact is a response to the craving for affection many felt while self-isolating during the first national lockdown. Having a cuddle buddy could help people through the tough times.

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Until the new lockdown was imposed amid rising cases of COVID-19, Belgians were allowed to see up to four people indoors, but can only now do so outdoors.

Belgium currently has the highest rate of infection in Europe, and during the first wave of COVID-19 it suffered one of the highest death rates in the world. The new national lockdown is planned to last until December 13.

Animation by Ben Wildi

_{Cover image: Francisco Seco/AP Photo}