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The Science Behind Why Watching Your Favorite Show Makes You Feel Better

The Science Behind Why Watching Your Favorite Show Makes You Feel Better
Photo by Pablo Varela on Unsplash
Beth Frutkin
By Beth FrutkinJul 17, 2024
Beth Frutkin
Founder and driving force behind Divine Health, Beth combines her expertise in marketing and technology to make health information accessible, engaging, and impactful. Her passion for health education stems from personal experiences and a desire to bridge the gap between science and everyday wellness, ensuring readers have the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Through Divine Health, she curates and shares valuable insights on nutrition, fitness, mental health, medical advancements, and emerging health trends.
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In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to unwind and destress is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. One surprisingly effective method is watching your favorite TV show. This seemingly simple activity can have profound psychological benefits, supported by various scientific studies and psychological theories. So, go ahead. Rewatch The Office and Parks and Recreation over and over again.

1. Stress Relief and Relaxation

Watching your favorite show can serve as an excellent way to relax and reduce stress. Engaging in a familiar and enjoyable activity can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. According to Dr. Pamela Rutledge, Director of the Media Psychology Research Center, consuming content that you enjoy can help to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress .

2. Escapism and Mental Breaks

TV shows offer a form of escapism, allowing viewers to temporarily step away from their own lives and immerse themselves in another world. This mental break can be beneficial for overall mental health. Research from the University of Queensland suggests that escapism through entertainment can improve mood and provide a necessary distraction from everyday stressors .

3. Emotional Connection and Comfort

Favorite shows often feature characters and storylines that viewers grow attached to over time. These emotional connections can provide comfort and a sense of familiarity. A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that people often re-watch their favorite shows or movies to reconnect with beloved characters and re-experience positive emotions associated with the show .

4. Nostalgia and Positive Memories

Watching a beloved show can evoke feelings of nostalgia, which has been linked to psychological benefits. Nostalgia can boost mood, increase feelings of social connectedness, and enhance a sense of meaning in life. Research from the University of Southampton found that nostalgic activities, such as watching a favorite TV show, can increase optimism and reduce anxiety .

5. Routine and Predictability

Having a regular routine that includes watching a favorite show can provide a sense of structure and predictability. This can be particularly comforting in times of uncertainty. A study from the University of Buffalo highlights the importance of routine in maintaining mental health, noting that predictable activities can help mitigate feelings of chaos and instability .

Watching your favorite TV show is more than just a pastime; it’s a beneficial activity that can improve your mental and emotional well-being. Whether through stress relief, escapism, emotional connection, nostalgia, or routine, the positive effects of this simple pleasure are well-supported by scientific research. So next time you’re feeling down or stressed, don’t hesitate to reach for the remote and indulge in an episode or two of your favorite series.

References

  1. Rutledge, P. "The Psychology of Watching TV." Media Psychology Research Center. Link
  2. University of Queensland. "Escapism Through Media: The Benefits of a Good Story." Link
  3. Journal of Consumer Research. "Rewatching Shows and the Role of Emotional Attachment." Link
  4. University of Southampton. "The Psychological Benefits of Nostalgia." Link
  5. University of Buffalo. "Routine and Mental Health: The Role of Predictable Activities." Link

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