With the variety of shows and movies available today from multiple streaming platforms, you can never run out of things to binge-watch. Thus, if you manage to clear a weekend to catch up on your list of must-watch content, you want to make sure that you can make the most of it—perhaps even consider snagging a new television from some of the best TV deals in your area.
Preparing for a binge-watching session may feel strange, but think of it like planning for a trip. You do your research beforehand, arrange your transportation and the items you need, and schedule the places you wish to visit. This attention to detail applies to binge-watching too, except that the journey to a different world happens right in your own living room.
To help you get started, here are some of the things you can do.
Prepare a List of Shows and Movies You Want to See
Making a list of the shows and movies you want to watch is one of the first things you need to do when preparing for a binge-watching session. Remember, you are working with limited time, so the last thing you want is to waste it looking for something to watch.
Ideally, you already have a list of shows and movies your friends have been recommending for a while. If you don’t, however, you can always ask other people for recommendations. A simple Facebook post or tweet from you asking for suggestions can also help you easily generate a list of shows to watch, as recommended by your peers or followers. With your list sorted out, you can take the next steps to planning your TV-viewing spree.
Set Aside Time for Binge-Watching
One of the problems that a lot of binge-watchers struggle with is the idea that they are wasting time by watching a lot of TV. You might feel bad for not accomplishing any work-related tasks and being “unproductive.” It is important to understand, however, that binge-watching is one of the many ways to relax and unwind from busy schedules.
Setting aside time and specifying just how long you will binge-watch can help address these apprehensive feelings and make you feel more comfortable about seeing this as a crucial time-off and “me time” for yourself.
Make Your Spot Comfortable
Most people have a designated TV-watching spot. It can be a large sofa, a snug chair, or a soft bed. No matter what you choose as your watching spot, it is essential to also prepare it to make it as comfortable as possible for you when you start your binge-watching session. Make sure that there is adequate back support and you have enough leg space for movement.
Stock Up on Snacks
Preparing the snacks may seem like the easiest part of working out your binge-watching session, but don’t be fooled. For your health’s sake, it’s not wise to mainly consume chips, biscuits, and other junk (albeit delicious) snacks—especially when you plan to sit down a lot in front of the TV.
Opt for healthier snacks instead, such as frozen grapes, whole-wheat bars, and sliced fruits. Prep them beforehand and place them in the refrigerator, so you can easily pop a container out whenever you’re hungry.
Drinks Lots of Water
When you’re engrossed in a film or series, it’s easy to forget to drink water. However, staying hydrated is crucial to your health, even when you’re just lounging in front of the television. After all, the body continues to use water even when you’re not moving, and proper hydration can help maintain optimal thermal comfort when you’re watching TV.
Consider placing a pitcher of water near you so you can refill your glass as needed. You’ll be able to avoid getting up from your comfortable spot each time you feel thirsty.
Schedule Alarms for Stretch Breaks
An increasing amount of research shows that being sedentary is not good for your health. It’s connected to the development of several health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. It’s not good for your mental health as well. Yet again, it’s easy to forget to stand up and stretch once in a while when you’re engrossed with what’s happening on the screen.
Avoid sitting for too long by setting up alarms every 30 minutes for a quick stretch. You can set the mode to “vibrate” so a ring won’t disrupt the show you’re watching. Keep your phone close to you so you’ll be able to feel the vibration as scheduled.
Consider Multitasking While Watching
You don’t necessarily need to stay in a lounge position to binge-watch. Multitasking is always an option. You can do a couple of stationary chores, such as folding laundry, ironing clothes, or organizing your closet. If you have a clear space, you can even do exercises, such as squats, planks, jumping jacks, and sit-ups. In this manner, you kill two birds with one stone. You’re watching the content you love and you’re accomplishing other things you want to do.
Inform Your Friends and Family Beforehand
The last thing you want in a carefully planned binge-watching session is an interruption. A friend might drop by without informing you first, or a family member might make you run for an errand, thinking you have free time. Avoid these scenarios by informing friends and family that you have something scheduled during this period and cannot entertain visits, calls, and errands, among other things.
It becomes increasingly clear that there’s more to preparing for a binge-watching session than most people think. The tips above will help you make the most of your time and allow you to catch up with the shows and movies you’ve been putting off to watch. With careful preparation, your binge-watching session can become a more comfortable and fulfilling experience, whether you do it alone or with others.
