10 Steps To Break The TV Curse

Image for representation only

 

The restlessness starts around 5.30 pm. Hurried glances are cast on the clock as many pending chores have to be completed. Those in the offices are checking the seconds to 5.30 pm, a rush to the door, and a quick exit uppermost in the mind.

No, it’s not for catching an outbound train or going to the cinema.

The answer is in the living room. It’s in that electronic contraption called television..

Yes, at 6 pm, prime time begins. All seats at home are occupied with bated breath, excitement running through the body. Of course, every day usually ends with a couple of hours sat in front of the television to catch up on our favorite TV shows. Whilst it’s not great for our health, we do all do it. However, some of us watch a lot more television than others. Surprisingly, it’s believed that the older generations actually watch a lot more television than any of us (source here). This is obviously not good for their health, so it’s important that some of these seniors consider spending their time doing other things instead of sitting and watching TV for long periods of time, which can be problematic.

Will the bahu finally get her revenge on the saas? Or will the CID crack the mystery today?

Will the snake strike the bad guy? Will Hanuman finally go to Lanka?

Dinner is already on the boil and will be completed before the festivities begin. Dinner can be managed while seated in front of the TV. Everything else is forgotten. It’s the 6 to 11 slot, rest be damned.

Television addiction is a serious issue that affects most of us. We are wasting precious time glued to the box on a daily basis. Life revolves around those times and any aberration may even lead to violent behavior. This compulsive behavior is very difficult to get rid of. It’s equivalent to smoking, drinking, or gambling.

Sheer determination is required to overcome this malaise..

Here are 10 ways to get over the addiction to the idiot box.

  1. Admit you are an addict. This is the first and most important step if one needs to go further. This is difficult but can be done by exercising the will power.
  2. Once done with that confession, regulate the watching hours. Try to find which programme you like and then start the TV for that and shut on conclusion.
  3. Don’t switch on the TV as soon as you arise. Applies particularly to those living alone. This will lead to delays all day. Just glance at the news and be done. Don’t forget to shut the set and save electricity.
  4. Checking guides is really important. There are apps or even the newspaper which give schedules of programmes. Then make up your mind what to see and stick to it. Don’t get carried away by a sexy starlet or a hunk. The heady feeling will disappear as it is the same wine in a new bottle.
  5. Plan a walk during the prime time. This will help to keep your paunch under control and give your eye much needed rest.
  6. Instead of watching and eating, just shut the set and just EAT. You don’t want to end up with indigestion due to hurried attempts at catching the show and gulping the grub.
  7. Housewives can delay their cooking to prime time. You will win more affection from the hubby and children by serving hot meals instead of the microwave variety.
  8. Don’t relax and watch. Use a normal, hard chair instead of the soft settee.
  9. When was the last time you chatted as a family? Shut the box and discuss your day.
  10. Why waste time on watching long stares and little action or more action and little content on TV? Or see The Godfather for the 27th time? Be human, shut it and ration it.

Just look outside… Life is beautiful.