Repeating familiar TV series instead of exploring new ones might indicate you have habits similar to these 7 listed.

In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of relaxation and connection can be a challenge. However, small choices in our entertainment habits can make a significant difference for both our personal wellbeing and the planet.

One such choice is the rewatching of familiar shows, often referred to as "comfort TV." This practice, as Susan Cain's mantra suggests, allows us to shine in our own way, choosing comfort over the new and unknown.

The appeal of comfort TV lies in its predictability. By choosing shows we already know, we reduce decision fatigue, sparing our brains the heavy lifting of learning a new world. Comfort TV fits beautifully on a "self-soothe menu," a list of activities used to regulate mood without guessing at the ending.

Moreover, comfort episodes are useful for improving focus during chores, commuting, or meal prep. As Maya Angelou once said, "People will never forget how you made them feel," and our shows make us feel safe, which is therapeutic.

Rewatching comfort shows can also serve as a restorative counterweight when cognitive demands are high. It's a way to regulate mood, as it provides a known emotional outcome that can lower anxiety and help us relax.

Hosting a "rewatch club" can provide an additional layer of social connection, with a sense of familiarity that is comforting. This shared experience can help us form deep parasocial bonds with TV characters, viewing them as significant figures in our lives, such as roommates, colleagues, or family members.

Parasocial relationships with characters can be meaningful and stabilizing, especially when rewatching familiar stories. We may even realize changes in our perspective and coping skills when revisiting old content.

However, it's important to remember that late-night bingeing can negatively impact sleep quality. Setting a cut-off time is essential to ensure a good night's rest.

To enhance the experience of rewatching comfort shows, mindfulness and intention-setting can play a crucial role. Turning ritual into a nervous-system love language by creating specific routines around your comfort TV viewing can signal to your brain that you are off duty.

Your "rewatch kit" can include items like a soft throw, chipped mug, playlist, low lamp, organic cotton loungewear, soy candle, fair-trade chocolate, herbal tea, and low-energy lighting. These items can help create a comforting atmosphere that enhances the rewatching experience.

Ultimately, choosing what makes us feel steady can help recharge for important connections offline. We use stories as emotional regulation tools, knowing which episodes cheer us, calm us, or help us cry, demonstrating emotional literacy.

In conclusion, the power of comfort TV lies in its ability to provide a sense of familiarity, connection, and relaxation. By making conscious choices in our entertainment habits, we can prioritize our wellbeing and form meaningful relationships with the characters we love.