Watching movies and its effect on health
Watching movies is a popular activity across generations – although it may be of different genres, engaging stories on the screen attract both the youngest and the oldest. People often associate the time reserved for movies with relaxation, entertainment, and sometimes the experience of the movie itself. On the other hand, it should be added that this is mostly a passive form of relaxation, which must therefore be kept within healthy limits and combined with other types of relaxation. But what do they say about watching study films and can they positively affect your health?
4 ways watching movies can affect your health and well-being
The final effect of watching movies is always very individual and depends, among other things, on the current state and mood of the individual, his preferences and, last but not least, on the genre of the movie and the circumstances under which it is watched. The influence of some specific film genres will be discussed in detail later in the text, however, the possible positive effect of watching films generally applies mainly to the following areas:
- Relaxation and stress reduction
Immersing yourself in the plot of the film will allow you to get away from ordinary worries for a while, or provide relaxation after a hard day. According to studies , watching movies can improve mood and reduce stress levels – but they also point out that so-called multitasking should be avoided. When watching, you should focus your attention only and only on the story taking place in the film and not be seduced into other activities such as scrolling on social networks, handling unfinished work, etc. If you have trouble detaching yourself from normal duties or procrastination, take yourself away during the time reserved for the movie, other electronics in another room or set the “do not disturb” mode.
- Motivation
Some films can so-called give you a boost in many areas, whether it is work productivity, sports career, family and social life, or even self‑care. The story taking place on the screen can provide you with new stimuli and awaken your interest in activities to which you might otherwise find it difficult to find a way. You can often sympathize with movie heroes, admire them, or, on the contrary, blame them for some decisions – all this can lead you in a different direction in real life as well.
- Looking for motivational movie tips? Get inspired in the article 10 motivational movies that will make you get off the couch
- Getting distance from your own problems
As already mentioned, watching movies can give you many new stimuli and reasons to think. A big advantage is that you follow the story of the characters from a distance and you are not “burdened” with emotions like in real life (or at least not to such an extent). Some of the situations you will see on the screen may seem familiar to you – perhaps you have experienced them yourself or are experiencing them right now. And while in reality your problem is the source of a lot of anguish and worry, with the main character you immediately think of what he should do to solve it. Here too, of course, you always need to consider all the pros and cons, and the possible impact on your particular situation, but often looking at it from a different perspective can really help you.
- Time spent together
Watching movies together can help spark conversation and bond with your companions. In this case, of course, the way the shared experience is implemented is very important – if you watch the movie in silence while still concentrating on dozens of other activities, the final effect will definitely be different than if you tune in to each other and discuss important issues moments, character behavior and plot twists.
How can individual film genres affect health?
- Horror movies
Horror films usually aim to create an effect of tension and danger. Even though watching them you realize that the action is only happening on the screen, the tension and sudden startle can cause a physical response, such as an increase in adrenaline and cortisol levels. You may also experience heart palpitations or notice dilated pupils. For a healthy person, the physical manifestations of watching horror films are not dangerous in themselves , but if you are one of those people who do not sleep well after watching this film genre, from an overall point of view , your general well-being and, in case of other sleep problems, your physical health can be negatively affected .
However, the problem can arise for people struggling with an anxiety disorder or other mental illness. Because of their chronic anxiety, these people often have a heightened perception of negative and stressful experiences , and are thus more likely to react to horror movies with even more anxiety, sometimes to the point of panic. People with an anxiety disorder often have an instinctive tendency to avoid this genre of film, even though they may have liked it before developing mental difficulties.
The positive influence of horror films can consist mainly in the awareness of the fact that it is only a simulated danger, which is not real, and after the end of the film, the viewer will see a certain resolution. This benefit may not only apply to healthy people, but also to those with an anxiety disorder – it will help them perceive fear and a stressful situation that leads to a resolution, from the role of an external observer. The suitability of watching horror films therefore always needs to be assessed individually for each person.
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- Fairy tales and cartoons
Fairy tales and cartoons intended for children or referred to as “family shows” usually offer kind humor, empathy and understanding. The humor in these shows is based on the principle of “laughing with the hero”, not “laughing at the hero”. The seemingly distant worlds of people and cartoon animals or even inanimate objects can in many cases reflect real-life situations , which they present in a kind and non-violent form. Undoubtedly, nostalgia also plays a certain role here, when favorite fairy tales partially transport you back to your childhood. However, when you take a closer look, you often notice how much you missed between the lines in your childhood.
It is the simplicity and directness with which fairy tales work that can help adults uncover neglected areas of perception and show them the issue of mental health on a clearer level. It turns out that fairy tales (as well as other genres of films) can be one of the supporting forms of psychotherapy in the treatment of various mental disorders. This is also confirmed by a summary review from 2021 , which points to the effectiveness of so-called video therapy for children and adults.
- Comedy
Comedy movies based on humor can help improve mood, relieve anxiety symptoms, reduce stress hormones or even lower pain perception through laughter. The positive emotions caused by watching these films can contribute to the release of endorphins , which are also known as happy hormones. Of course, it will always depend on the individual type of film and the circumstances, but generally choosing a favorite comedy for a long winter evening is a good choice.
- Did you know what actors have to go through for some movie roles? You can read about the price for fit bodies in the article Movie stars advise: How to get in shape?
Repeated watching of movies
Repeated watching of movies or “rewatching” is not unusual – no doubt you too have your favorite pieces that you have already seen more times than you can count. However, the experience of a well-made picture is not the only thing that re-watching movies can bring you. Rewatching is very popular with people with anxiety disorders as it can help them feel safe and secure. They can be sure that nothing will surprise them unpleasantly in the plot and they already know the climax of all plot twists in advance, which reduces the level of tension and brings much-needed relaxation and relaxation.
In addition, watching movies repeatedly can transport you back to earlier periods in your life and help you remember the situation when you saw the film for the first time, which again can have a positive effect on mental well-being.
Active vs. passive rest
From the text above, it is clear that watching movies can really positively affect your mental and sometimes physical health. However, in order to make maximum use of all the benefits, it is paradoxically necessary not to overdo this activity – whether due to physical inactivity or radiation emanating from the screen, which can excessively negatively affect vision or sleep.
If you enjoy watching movies, it’s perfectly fine to take a break from watching movies every once in a while. However, do not forget that for a healthy lifestyle and overall well-being, it is necessary to build on movement and other, more creative forms of relaxation ( reading books , drawing , meditation , etc.) as part of regeneration and relaxation .