Carving out moments of true downtime is essential in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, especially for those of us navigating the challenges of chronic illness like me. One of the most important joys in my life and one of my favourite ways to relax and recharge is by sinking into the sofa, remote in hand, ready to immerse myself in a world of engaging storytelling through the TV. It not only serves as entertainment but also as a comforting ritual.

The Appeal of Live TV and iPlayer

When choosing between live TV and on-demand options like iPlayer, I often find myself leaning toward both, depending on my mood and energy levels. Live TV brings an element of routine, spontaneity and excitement. Whether it’s a gripping drama, an exciting sports event, or a delightful cooking show, they create a sense of community—such as when a new episode of a favourite series is on, and everyone is watching at the same time, it’s a great conversational experience as we share our reactions and theories. 

iPlayer, on the other hand, is my sanctuary on days when energy is scarce. It allows me to watch what I want when I want. There’s something utterly relaxing about browsing through shows, picking one that speaks to my current mood, and enjoying it from the comfort of my sofa. 

Downtime as Self-Care

For anyone managing chronic conditions, as I do, downtime isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity. It offers a space to escape from physical discomfort or mental strain. Finding joy in television can help shift focus away from our daily struggles and immerse us in the characters' lives and/or the story's excitement. Feeling connected to stories, whether through the drama of “SAS Rogue Heroes” or the laughter of a rom-com, they lighten our emotional load.

Quality Time and Memories with Loved Ones

The TV is not only a personal escape but also a fantastic means of bonding with my husband and children. Sharing a viewing experience helps strengthen our connections and build lasting memories.

One of my favourite activities with my husband is binge-watching TV, especially "LOTR." Each time it is on, we curl up on our sofa under a blanket, dogs on our laps, with a big bag of crisps, completely losing track of time. It’s my husband’s favourite, and I have lost count of the number of times we have seen it.

We also have our regular tradition of watching The Traitors, where we root for our favourites.

When it comes to kids’ time, one of our favourite pastimes is cosying up and watching films on TV. If not a film, we are tuning in to the British Bake Off—a definite favourite of my daughters. These moments aren't just about entertainment; they are cherished pillars that strengthen our family bonds and create memories we'll hold dear for years to come. 

Embracing the Rest & Connect Campaign

The BBC’s TV Licensing Rest & Connect Campaign encourages us to take breaks—something especially important for parents like us. Whether it’s a few minutes to catch up on our favourite show or simply relaxing with a good book, making time for ourselves helps recharge our batteries. It’s an essential reminder that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

With your TV Licence, it gives us access to an extensive range of live TV and on-demand services that become part of our ‘unwind’ routines. Whether it’s watching live programmes on popular channels or catching up with BBC iPlayer, they allows us to take advantage of time to unwind and disconnect from daily stresses. 

Finally,

Taking time to rest is not just about recuperating physically; it’s about nurturing our mental well-being, too. As a parent with chronic illnesses, prioritising rest allows us to create a more balanced family life and reminds us that we are worthy of self-care. 

This post is a collaboration with TV Licensing (a trademark of the BBC), but all thoughts and experiences are my own.