Chennai
Stating that watching movies or TV shows act as a stress buster, Srimathy S, a counsellor said, “When you watch movies, it relaxes the mind. Besides, there are many movies wherein actors play positive roles. This can influence people in a positive way.”
Citing an example, she said, “A 30-year-old woman approached for counselling. She said that she was stressed and usually showed it on people around her. I suggested she spend some time watching movies that she enjoys and after a week, she was a totally different person.”
How does a movie help in relaxing though? The counsellor explained, “When one watches a movie, they don’t have to think about anything else. When you are stressed, the mind is not calm. And movies help in calming the mind.”
A recent study that was published in a Science journal stated that Cinema therapy is a promising method of personal development and psychotherapy. The study that was conducted by researchers from the California State University found that the therapy helps in inculcating educational and therapeutic values of individuals.
“In films, characters and films are potential metaphors. By viewing a clip, persons will be able to see themselves and their experiences on the screen and be able to obtain greater insight and new perspectives on how to overcome the real obstacles in life,” said Dr S K Raman, a Psychiatrist.
Having realised its benefits, Siva Subramaniam, who has counselled young boys in Observation Homes in the city, said, “Over the course of my conversations with the youngsters, I learnt how they get influenced by celebrities. We realised that this influence can have a positive effect too.
While it is not something that everyone does, some of the psychologists started using this mode of therapy.”
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