The Healing Power Of Movies

Each time she came in, I worked to calm her anxiety, but this day was different.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that her body was relaxed, so I asked, “What did you do differently this week? Whatever you did, please keep doing it! It’s helping your body stay calm!”

She replied, “It must be the movies. I saw five this week.” She was movie-cramming to see all the nominated films before the Oscars.

Intrigued, I began researching the effects of movies on my own body and psyche. What I found surprised me and made total sense.

Ever felt relieved and more relaxed after having a good cry?

Movies permit us to feel our feelings. In our society today, there is little or no time to process our emotions.

When you are touched to tears in a movie, you are often releasing unexpressed emotions from your own life.

A good cry can feel like such a relief. Letting go of feelings that have been pent up in your body and psyche can be healing and freeing.

I felt this teary release watching The Peanut Butter Falcon. It wasn’t an Oscar nominated film, but one worth watching. Tears streamed down our faces as both my husband and I were moved by this film. 

There were so many meaningful messages present in this film that get to the heart of what matters.

Ever find that you have trouble turning your brain off and just relaxing?

Getting immersed in an alternate reality of a movie or good TV show can give your mind and body a much-needed break from focusing on your own life. 

Letting go and allowing yourself to experience other realities can open you up to new possibilities and ways of thinking. 

My husband and I have been watching old episodes of Brooklyn 99, a sitcom about a group of cops that has made me laugh out loud at least once each episode. 

There is no better medicine than laughter, and this has been a great source of it for me. 

While at first, it felt like just a fun escape, it has had a greater impact on me. 

What is so funny is the ridiculous extremes these characters enact, just being themselves. 

The acceptance they have of one another despite their eccentric and often disruptive reactivity is heartwarming. 

It shows how very contrasting personalities can come together and support one another despite their extreme differences. 

It has been a lesson for me in acceptance of self and others, as well as a source of fun at the end of the day. 

Felt more tired of late? Feeling the pressure to do more but not the energy? 

It’s not you; tis the season.

As we move through this often tough transitional time between winter and spring, it might be more effective to take a break and watch a movie or a good TV show.

Chinese Medicine teaches us to live in harmony with the seasons. Winter is the time to restore and store energy for the growth Spring brings.

Chinese Medicine suggests we follow nature’s lead at this time of year and take time to rest, stay warm inside, and maybe hibernate while binge-watching a great series or batch of movies.

Even if you are in a warmer climate, the beginning portion of the year is meant for rest and rejuvenation. All of nature takes this time. And, refilling your energy stores now can help you be more effective when Spring energy supports germination and growth!

Watching a TV series or movie that gives you a fresh perspective or inspiration is a great way to refuel.

Being a Broadway fan, of course I loved Wicked, and was inspired by Jon Cho’s incredible adaptation of it for the big screen. He also directed Lin Manuel Miranda’s, In The Heights, and his choices amplified the resonance of both of these musicals. 

Wicked left me on a high that I re-ignite every time I now listen to the soundtrack in the car. 

It continues to inspire me on a daily basis. 

So, I invite you to get some rest, give yourself a break, and enjoy some healing TV or movies this weekend. 

You might be surprised by their energetic effect;) 

PS: Please comment and share any programs or films that have inspired or re-invigorated you lately. 

And, as always, let your gut guide your movie and show choices. Watch the trailers, and see if you feel drawn. As an empath, I know first hand, your choices are the best for you;)