At the end of a long day, nothing feels better than cozying up in a warm blanket, turning on the tube, and impatiently waiting for Ross and Rachel to admit they still have feelings for each other. However, the experience of sitting on the couch and staring at a screen has its limitations. Using your favorite characters as inspiration, here are some active ways to incorporate the setting of your TV show of choice into your daily life.
For those who love Survivor’s comical narration and blindsides at tribal council, it might be time to put your outdoorsy skills to the test. Invite some friends, and perhaps a few enemies, to go camping. Your backyard will do in a pinch. Between tent tensions and an uncomfortable night’s sleep, the group dynamics will be just as entertaining as watching Boston Rob and Russell Hantz squabble on set.
Maybe you prefer winding down to an episode of the Great British Baking Show. Watching Paul Hollywood intimidate the contestants is a sure way to lift one’s spirits. Drooling over the tantalizing treats? Flick off the telly, don your best British accent, dig up an old family recipe, and bake your knickers off! Want to take it to the next level? Invite friends over and host a mini-competition. The loser is assigned dish duty.Â
If Gilmore Girls is your cup of tea– or coffee, rather– you might feel jealous of Luke and Lorelai’s undeniable chemistry. Instead of steeping in jealousy, try becoming a regular at a local coffee shop. Bonus points if it’s home to a hot barista! In between coffee trips, be sure to visit your grandparents– Fridays are encouraged– and leave lots of time to daydream about college.
When watching Community, fans yearn for the episodes to end, not just because their ears can’t take another Dean pun, but mainly in anticipation for the recurrent closing scene–‘Troy and Abed in the Morning.’ The only thing more joyous than watching two best friends have fun would be finding the Abed to your Troy, and starting your own TikTok vlog. Puppet shows, street interviews, and the occasional get-ready-with-me storytime are promising ways to increase your follower base. Soon your hashtags will be outcompeting Anna Frey.Â
If you are old(er) school and enjoy watching Friends, perhaps you’re old enough to be married. To truly channel your inner Ross, consider pursuing divorce, the more times the better. However, if you’re of a younger demographic, try co-adopting a chick and duck. This is an adorable way to become closer to your best friend and simultaneously annoy your neighbors, just like Joey and Chandler intended.
While it is fun to veg on the sofa like a couch potato, your time might be better spent among the upright and ambulatory members of society. Have no fear, by implementing these ideas, your favorite shows’ plotlines will continue running through your mind, while the cozy couch cushions await your return.