It’s been one hell of a year and with the holidays upon us, things are finally starting to wind down. We’ve been grinding for 11 months straight, we owe it to ourselves to shut down and recharge before we throw ourselves back into the routine come 2018. There are countless ways to approach a recharge period. Aside from catching up on sleep, and lord knows we all need that, think of something you love to do that requires a minimal amount of brain power and do it. I know, Einstein level thoughts here. I might not have pages of research to back up my groundbreaking hypothesis, but I can tell you from first hand experience that filling your downtime with a mindless activity that you also enjoy does wonders for your overall happiness and helps you disconnect from the chaos that somehow finds its way into your every day life. Personally, falling into a binge-watch black hole is my recovery method of choice. I’ve ripped through entire series in one day and honestly, take pride in my impressive skill set.
*Side note: Is competitive binge-watching a thing? And if so, does anyone know of a league looking to bring on fresh talent? I require very little training.
If you echo my sentiments, I’d like to help you in your personal quest for tranquility by sharing some of my ultimate binge-watch recommendations. From new series to old classics and Netflix to Hulu, there’s so much to choose from; it’s the least I can do to help simplify the decision making process. Drum roll please….
-
Stranger Things
80s influence, government experiments, supernatural forces, parallel dimensions and the most talented cast of kids make for one of the best sci-fi drama series out there. Throw in a little Winona Ryder and you’ve got yourself a solid show, and one of my personal current favorites. There are only two seasons so this should be an easy one to plow through.
Where to watch: Netflix
-
Parks and Recreation
While the series ended in 2015, Leslie Knope and the rest of Pawnee, Indiana’s finest will forever remain in our hearts. The show follows the absurd antics of the Pawnee Parks and Rec department, and is anchored by the hilariously charming Amy Poehler. With others like Nick Offerman, Chris Pratt and Rob Lowe rounding out the cast, this seven-season classic will always be funny and never get old.
Where to watch: Netflix, Hulu
-
Mindhunter
For those intrigued by true crime and serial killer storylines, Mindhunter is for you. While this choice might not be totally mindless, it’ll hook you so fast you’ll come to after a nine-hour binge wondering what just happened. The show follows two FBI agents attempting to understand and catch serial killers by studying their damaged psyches. Do yourself a favor and start this one today, there’s only one season!
Where to watch: Netflix
-
Will & Grace
I know I’m not the only one who felt an immense amount of joy when they announced the return of Will & Grace, after being off the air for 11 years. Without skipping a beat, the gang is back again with NBC’s revival and it’s as if nothing has changed. Will and Grace are roomies, Karen is drunk and Jack is “Just Jack.” With eight seasons from its original one and the ninth currently airing, a Will & Grace binge will help you laugh away your worries as you recharge for the New Year.
Where to watch: Hulu, On-Demand, NBC app
-
Broad City
If you haven’t heard of Broad City, please drop everything you’re doing, log on to Hulu and begin season one immediately. The Comedy Central series was created by and stars Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer as 20-something best friends who are trying to navigate life in New York. While the show is laugh out loud hilarious, it brilliantly touches on real life topics that resonate with a wide audience, like current politics, unbearable menial jobs, insufferable roommates and financial struggles. If you want to feel empowered while simultaneously being entertained, I strongly suggest you binge the previously aired three seasons and catch up on the current fourth during your holiday downtime.
Where to watch: Hulu, On-Demand; Comedy Central App
