Nicola Sturgeon admitted she was "emotional" as she announced that the general public can hug people their loved ones again.
The First Minister accelerated a number of coroanvirus changes as she confirmed the country would move to Tier 2 from Monday.
And starting next week, the public no longer have to maintain physical distancing in a home or private garden.
Ms Sturgeon said at the briefing: "You can hug your loved ones again."
All parts of Scotland will move to Level 2 on Monday apart from Moray where cases are four times higher than the Scottish average.
Island communities will also move to Level 1.
The public can meet outdoors in groups of eight from eight households.
And up to six people from three households can meet indoors with overnight stays back on the cards too.
Hospitality changes were also confirmed with alcohol able to be served indoors to 10.30pm and gathering limits increased to six people from three households.
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