Staying active and moving is essential for a healthy lifestyle.
But sometimes we all need a little downtime to unwind.
There are so many options for downtime, but one habit that seemed to stick after the pandemic was streaming TV.
Like Everything, Binge in Moderation!
Streaming can lead to staying up too late if we are not careful. I know there have been many times I sit down, planning to watch something, then I find myself falling asleep on the couch.
But if you’ve done that self check-in and are not having bedtime revenge procrastination, then watching something entertaining and inspiring can be a nice little time out. From comedies to dramas, and even health-related documentaries, here are some of my favorite streaming picks when it’s time to press pause and take a break.
Ted Lasso
I was admittedly a little late to the game here. I didn’t think Ted Lasso was something I would enjoy. I was wrong. AFC Richmond, please forgive me. If you need a boost of positivity and humor, Ted Lasso is the perfect feel-good show. With its blend of comedy and heart, this series about an American football coach taking on British soccer (or the “real football” as they would say) will leave you smiling and feeling uplifted.
Chef’s Table
One of the most beautiful shows ever. You won’t see good, beautiful food in the same way ever again. Each episode follows a renowned chef from around the world, highlighting their culinary journey, philosophy, and artistry. The cinematography is stunning, and the stories are inspiring, making it perfect for anyone who appreciates the art of food and overcoming life’s challenges. This show is more about passion, creativity, and dedication than about food sometimes. But the food that comes out of those emotions is so beautiful, that it can’t not be about the food.
MasterChef Junior
I did enjoy the original MasterChef from time to time, but did not watch it often. I came across this when my son was younger. Watching this show with him was a game-changer. He was already interested in food, but this got him even more curious about food. We would discuss what the very talented contestants were cooking and the judges’ thoughts throughout the show. After watching a few seasons, by chance Gordon Ramsey came to town on my son’s birthday. Gordon Ramsey was very kind to the junior chefs. If you have kids, this is a perfect family-friendly option that can inspire your children to eat well and get creative in the kitchen.
Only Murders in the Building
Martin Short, Steve Martin, Selena Gomez and clever writing makes this show one of my current favorites. It’s a comedy-mystery that I recommend to pretty much everyone. The quirky dynamic between the lead characters keeps things interesting while they try to solve a murder in their building. There have been a few small cameo appearances by people like Sting and John McEnroe that did not disappoint. It’s a great pick when you want something a little offbeat and funny.
Call My Agent
My friend Yonca who is a writer and fluent in French recommended this French show to me. I said yes, “But I don’t speak French.” “Trust me”, she replied. “It is sooo good. Even with subtitles it will be good.” Yonca also recommended the capabilities of Spotify to me back when I was a skeptic of streaming music. To be fair, she has never recommended anything bad to me at all, so of course I took her advice. This was still during the pandemic, so I was instantly hooked and binged it quite quickly. What I love most is how all the characters, despite their flaws, are lovable and deeply human. It’s a great blend of humor, heart, and sharp storytelling, set in the world of talent agents in Paris. And Paris!
Lupin
Of course, after Call My Agent, the algorithm started to suggest French shows to me. Since “Call My Agent” was a wild success, I decided to try the suggestion. Arsene Lupin is featured in a series of French mystery thriller books written in the 1900s by Maurice Leblanc. He is often called the Sherlock Holmes of France. The series is fast moving and keeps you hooked with its smart writing and slick storytelling. If you’re into clever heists – I love a good Heist – and compelling characters, Lupin is a must-watch. Assane Diop’s quest for justice is full of twists and turns that make it binge-worthy.
Represent
The algorithm kept going. It recently suggested another French show. Represent is about a black, youth center leader from the suburbs of Paris who becomes a candidate in the presidential election. It has thoughtful commentary and entertaining takes as it highlights some of society’s issues about privilege, race, politics and representation. It was entertaining and I found myself often laughing out loud. Another thing I learned through this show is that foreign films do not allow you to be distracted. You cannot pick up your phone because you won’t be able to read the subtitles, so you’ll miss the show. It’s a great way to not work or try to multi-task while you watch something.
Kimler Geldi Kimler Gecti (Thank You, Next)
I saw some of my Turkish social media feed talking about this series, so I got curious. From the first episode, the story had me curious to keep watching, so I did. This series offers a raw and beautiful exploration of relationships. It’s about a young lawyer, a breakup, modern dating and friendship. The writing is painfully real at times. I honestly did not expect it to capture the essence of relationships so well, but it did. If you enjoy dramas with strong female leads, this one’s for you. And it is just as good with the subtitles.
Zeytin Agaci (Another Self)
This Turkish drama helped me survive jet lag. After watching Kimler Geldi Kimler Gecti, and a few other Turkish shows with my Turkish mother-in-law, I couldn’t decide on anything else, so I decided to give it a try. This one explores family constellations and ancestral healing. The show follows three friends on their own spiritual journey. There were many episodes to support my jet lag. I enjoyed Season 1 more than the second one. My biggest concern is the charming, beautiful island in the Aegean Sea where it was shot will now be even more crowded than it was before.
Shrinking
Starring Harrison Ford and Jason Segal, this comedy-drama series brings humor and heart to the exploration of mental health. It’s a great reminder of how we’re all navigating our own journeys and challenges, with moments that will make you laugh and reflect. And, no one has likely come across a therapist who, rather than empathizing, tells them exactly what they are thinking. Similar to Call My Agent, it makes you realize that everyone is flawed and dealing with something. And it also made me realize that Harrison Ford is really funny.
Wellmania
I do watch health and wellness shows sometimes, but not always. Wellmania is about health and wellness, but this Australian comedy is so much more than that. It pokes fun at the wellness industry and how it markets to women and makes us feel that we must constantly do all the expensive diet and woo things to stay fit and healthy. Although a comedy, this story about a jet-setting food writer who is facing her own health battles as she wades through the messy wellness world is one that will make you rethink both life and wellness.
The Game Changers
This documentary takes a deep dive into the plant-based movement, showcasing athletes who have optimized their performance through plant-based diets. It’s inspiring to see how these changes impacted their energy and endurance – worth a watch if you’re curious about food’s role in fitness. I recall it got some criticism when it was released, but I still enjoyed it. And, I just love seeing people succeed.
Federer: Twelve Final Days
Had I not heard Trevor Noah interview Roger Federer on his podcast, I would have likely not watched this. I do enjoy tennis, but it wasn’t on my radar. If you are a tennis or sports fan or anyone who appreciates excellence in performance, this is for you. This documentary explores the times behind the scenes of the legendary tennis player’s life and career, providing valuable insights into discipline, resilience, sportsmanship and what it takes to be the best. My favorite part is the lesson that there are people who can be wildly successful – the best in the world – and still keep their ego in check and have such beautiful humility.
Arrested Development
I have loved this show for years and am so happy it is making a comeback. Apple had the whole series for a very affordable price, too. Clever, absurd humor, it never disappoints. The more you watch, the funnier it gets. The characters of the dysfunctional Bluth family will have you laughing out loud at their bizarre antics. It’s a great choice for when you need a light, hilarious escape.
Modern Family
Another family comedy on my list. I’ve watched most of these episodes, but I’m sure there are a few I may have missed. If a clip shows up on my IG, I’ll always stop and watch it. Modern Family and Friends are often my go-to shows when I’m feeling a bit flu-like and I don’t feel well enough to do anything except curl up with a blanket and binge-watch. They are comforts from my past, and I know that if I fall asleep – which I usually do when I’m sick – it’s ok.
The Bear
This is another one I was kind of late to get into. One of my favorite podcasters, Rich Roll, kept referring to it as “the best”, so I got curious because the superlative is hard to find. That and when he mentioned the one episode that was done in one take – I got curious about that too. This show is raw and real. The story follows a chef who returns to his hometown to run his deceased brother’s sandwich shop. The show description says it looks at the pressures and challenges of the culinary world, but I’d say it’s more a show about life in that context. And not just any show, a very good one that is worthy of all the awards it has received.
Binge Well: Remember to Take Breaks & Snack Smart
Movement Breaks
I’ve just realized that as a health coach, I’ve just recommended way too many hours of sitting to you!
As much as we all love getting lost in a great show, it’s important to balance your relaxation time with movement. Try taking a break every 60–90 minutes to stretch, walk around, or do a quick set of exercises. Not only will this keep you feeling energized, but it will also help avoid that sluggish feeling after sitting for too long.
And, if you’re streaming at night, try to limit your viewing to one or two episodes so you can wrap up your evening and get to bed on time! Once I start thinking about how I want to feel the next day, it helps me turn off the TV.
Smart Snacks
And, of course, no binge-watch session is complete without snacks! My favorite is popcorn. I make my own. Avoid the microwave ones, unless they are of the healthier versions, they can have a lot of additives and sodium.
Popcorn is a classic, and it’s a healthier option when prepared the right way. It’s 30 calories per cup (air-popped), 6g carbohydrates, 0.3 grams of fat, and has about 1g each of protein and fiber. I add a little salt and drizzle a little bit of a very good extra virgin olive oil on mine (instead of butter) because then I can get the benefit of the polyphenols.
The way you cook yours will vary. I do cook mine on the stove top with a little bit of oil. And I do eat way more than one cup. But if you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know I love crunchy foods.
Happy Streaming!
