Sometimes, we all get drawn to those TV shows we used to watch as little kids, whether that be Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, or whatever else it is we enjoyed. It can often feel embarrassing to reveal this ‘childishness’ to others, but here are three reasons why there is no shame in rewinding to the past.
- Soothing Sense of Predictability
In a busy world filled with unexpected twists and turns, whether that be in school or elsewhere, it can be a great source of stress. When you watch a show that you’ve already enjoyed and loved, it gives you a sense of familiarity. This predictability is a great stress and anxiety buster, especially after an exhausting day at school or work. If you know what’s going to happen, your brain does not have to spend the extra energy to navigate through complicated plot twists. You just watch, laugh, and enjoy!
2. Seeking companionship through TV
Binging some episodes of a loved TV show can also foster a sense of warmth and connection. That sense of familiarity not only reduces stress but also allows us to revisit the characters, oftentimes treating them as old friends. This is especially so with sitcoms. Sometimes, you don’t need to watch action-packed, emotionally straining content for entertainment. Saying hello to the nostalgia from old shows is also great for this!
3. Quick Dopamine Boosts
Studies show that the wave of nostalgia received by watching old shows can increase levels of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for uplifting your mood. Oftentimes, kids’ shows have very short episodes, which you can watch quickly without chewing up your precious time. If you have a long ride home from school or work, for example, you can easily watch an episode on the train ride!
Beware of the dangers:
While revisiting our childhood through TV shows can be a great way to unwind after an exhausting day, it’s important to know when to stop. For example, if you notice that you heavily depend upon these shows to escape from reality rather than just taking a break, that can be a red flag. If this happens, it might be a good idea to use a different stress-relieving strategy or talk to a trusted friend/adult for support.
TL;DR
If a part of you wants to rewatch an episode of Peppa Pig, then I say go for it, but cautiously!