Instead of Another Show
Recently, I have been spending so much more time watching shows and movies. A study conducted in April 2020 shows that I am not alone. According to this study, on average, Americans stream eight hours of television each day through the pandemic. Whereas I know some watched productive shows and learned new things, I mostly did not. The majority of movies and shows I watched were to enjoy the comfort of seeing storylines I knew would play out well. I even got comfortable having the television on in the background while I did chores, something I did not do previously.
As we start the new year, one of my goals is to spend fewer hours watching shows, and stop using television as the only way to relax. So I wondered, what else can I do that requires approximately the same level of energy as sitting on the couch aimlessly?
Take a bath
Setting up a bath requires minimal effort, and taking a bath is really just sitting. Optional ways to elevate your bath include:
- turning off the lights
- lighting candles
- adding bath salts, bubbles, and/or oils
- having a drink
- listening to music or a podcast
Read a magazine
I love flipping through a magazine, new or old. The huge pictures, slippery paper, and perfume samples make it a sensory experience. And I feel like I read (or skim through) so many random articles on topics I would not have read about otherwise. Depending on the magazine I choose, the content can be as engaging as I want it to be.
Watercolor
The barrier to entry is really low as you only need a few supplies. Watercoloring is stimulating and engaging, but not stressful (as long you do not try to make your art perfect). To get started, all you need is a paint set, a brush, and some resilient paper. The total cost to get started is $10–$20 based on where you purchase your supplies. It can be tempting to turn on a show in the background while you paint, but a great alternative is to a listen to a podcast or some music.
Listen to an album you’ve never heard before
Not the Top 50. No, not Your Top 100. Not your Daily Mix. Something brand new.
Drink water and look outside the window
Maybe it sounds strange to include as an activity. But Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez says drinking lemon water is a mindful moment in her day. And, it’s pretty fun to look outside at random moments, see what’s going on with the leaves. Also, hydration!
Turns out it is difficult to come up with low energy items to do instead of the easy alternative of watching television. Do you have ideas to add to the list? Let me know!
