National Cinema Day 2023: How To Watch Movies To Improve Your Mental Health? 5 Real Reasons!

Friday, October 13, 2023, 11:00

In 2022, the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) introduced National Cinema Day to celebrate the revival of cinema halls post the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative was not just about entertainment; it was a lifeline for cinema owners who had endured massive losses during the pandemic.

Movies are really an integral part of our lives - no lies there. But did you know that watching movies can actually help with our mental well-being? Let us help you understand this better on this National Cinema Day.

How To Watch Movies To Improve Your Mental Health?

1. Watching movies relieves stress

Numerous studies have shown that watching movies can effectively reduce stress. When you immerse yourself in a film, your brain shifts its focus away from the worries and stressors of daily life.

A study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that viewing films can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, leading to a calmer state of mind.

2. Movies allow emotional release

Movies often take us on emotional rollercoasters, allowing us to experience a wide range of feelings and this can be profoundly therapeutic. According to research published in Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, emotional engagement while watching a movie can lead to a sense of emotional release, helping individuals process their own emotions more effectively.

3. Movies help create social bonds

Watching movies with friends and family can enhance social bonds. The communal experience of laughing, crying, or discussing a film can strengthen relationships.

A study from the Journal of Communication revealed that shared movie-watching can increase feelings of closeness and facilitate communication.

4. Movies offer a healthy escape

Movies transport us to different worlds, allowing us to temporarily escape from our own reality. This escapism can be therapeutic. A study published in ScienceDaily indicated that engaging in imaginative experiences, like those provided by movies, can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

5. Movies can improve cognitive skills

Movies challenge our cognitive skills, from critical thinking to problem-solving. A study in the Psychology of Popular Media Culture found that engaging with complex narratives in films can enhance cognitive flexibility and creativity. This mental stimulation can boost your overall mental health.

On A Final Note...

On this National Cinema Day, as we celebrate the magic of the silver screen, one must also realise the 'benefits' of it for your mental health.

So the next time you feel down, why not have a movie night?

Disclaimer: While movies can have positive effects on mental health, they are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are struggling with serious mental health issues, it's important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.