Watching TV has got a bad reputation over the years. It went from being a consumer dream to be blamed for everything – from obesity to aggressivity to anxiety.
But spending time in front of the telly can have more benefits than you think. And this isn’t just hearsay, it’s backed by science.
Research negates TV as a bad influence
New products tend to be a target of all sorts of accusations. Take mobile phones, for instance. Some say that mobile phones can damage your brain. No conclusive study has ever proven it, but many people believe in it anyway.
Others still don’t understand the psychoactive properties of cannabis oil, claiming it affects a person’s mental state. Again, scientists haven’t confirmed it, but some people choose to trust in biased information.
When it comes to TV, a study claimed that what we have seen as a cause might be a consequence. The research analysed the correlation between negative behaviour and time spent watching TV among 300 sibling pairs. And the connection couldn’t be proven.
Watching TV is one of the best ways to relax
Watching TV can be good for you for many reasons. One worth mentioning is how relaxing it can be. After a hard day at work, most of us can’t wait to lay on a couch and watch a film or TV series. And we feel much better after doing it.
And this isn’t just a feeling. Research led by Professor Robin Nabi of the University of California found out that watching TV can lower cortisol levels in women – the so-called stress hormone. And you shouldn’t be surprised if you hear about a similar effect among men.
The lack of interactivity and the fact we usually watch what we choose to are the factors in play here. TV shows allow us to “turn off” our brains and enjoy the moment. And it can help to decrease stress.
You can learn a lot
TV isn’t only about mindless entertainment. Check your TV listing right now, and you will find several instructive programmes, aimed at all educational levels and age groups.
You and your family can watch documentaries and learn about nature, history, or science. David Attenborough, Neil de Grasse Tyson, Brian Cox are some reputable names you can see on your telly. Or you can test your knowledge with Jeopardy!, Catchphrase, QI, or Who Wants To Be a Millionaire.
It’s also believed that it might be easier to absorb certain subjects when they are presented during a form of entertainment. For instance, the TV series Grey’s Anatomy had a positive impact on the understanding of HIV transmission, according to this study.
You can control your TV time
Yes, watching TV can become a problem if you ignore tasks or your family or neglect daily exercise to spend more time doing it.
But remote controls have made more than easy to turn your TV off. And streaming services made it convenient – now you can watch whatever you want when you want.
Meaning it’s high time to stop blaming TV for how we use it. Just set a limit, watch your favourite shows without concern, and enjoy the benefits.