We all know that watching movies is fun, especially when you watch them with your loved ones or a bunch of friends. But did you know that even sad movies can help improve your mood? According to Neuroscience experts, watching sad movies increases the endorphin levels in your brain. These “feel good” chemicals from the brain make you feel happier, more relaxed, and can even reduce pain levels.
Crying is Good for You
A group of researchers from Oxford University did a study to determine why sad or traumatic movies were so popular. The study showed that even those movies that make you cry can make you feel closer to those you watch it with. It also gives you a bonding feeling that comes from those endorphins being released from the brain. They are not sure whether it is the crying, feelings of emotion, or some other connection that gives you that boost of good feelings. But it is good to know that you can watch all kinds of movies to improve your mood.
Let the Movie Take You on a Journey
Comedies are the first movie choice for many who are wanting a pick-me-up, with good reason. Laughter improves your mood without you even realizing it. Mental health practitioners are even prescribing movies to help those with depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. These therapists have their clients watch a drama or deeply emotional movie and connect to one of the character’s issues, typically the one who is going through a rough time. By immersing yourself in others’ problems, it helps you feel better about your own issues. Absorbing the storyline and seeing how that character struggles can help you understand your own struggles. Another bonus is that you may find an answer to your own issues embedded in the movie.
Scream Therapy
In addition, some scary films that make you scream or get your blood moving can also be a good way to boost up those endorphins. After all, any kind of physical activity can help and that includes being scared out of your seat. Whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, or have any kind of mental health issues, with online therapy you can learn how to deal with these feelings. You don’t need an appointment and will not even have to leave your house.
Movies Versus Reading
Reading is also good for your mental health but sometimes we find it hard to concentrate on reading when our emotions are draining us. Watching a movie is easier to do and does not typically take the amount of concentration that reading does. The music and visible emotions on the characters’ faces can trigger emotions in you that need to be released. This gives you an outlet for your issues and an excuse to cry if you want to.
Exploring Your Feelings
They say that laughter is the best medicine, right? And this has been proven to be true. However, just about any emotion you get from watching a movie can be an excellent stress reliever. Other benefits to watching a movie with others is that you feel a bond with those who shared the experience with you, and you can use that bond to explore your feelings more thoroughly.
