I feel like every time I want to relax by watching or listening to something, I spend more time searching through the options than actually listening. There is so much out there, so where do you even begin? Instead of mindlessly scrolling through queues, I’ve compiled a few of my favorite female-centric media from all across the web that helps me destress!
Podcasts
I’ve Had It
Podcasts are great to listen to while walking, cleaning or in place of scrolling! I’ve been listening to the I’ve Had It podcast with Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan! They dive into topics that they’re done with and politics with humor.
Books
I almost exclusively read female authors, and I think what draws me in is the complex characters that can only be written by women.
My Year of Rest and Relaxation
This book, written by Ottessa Moshfegh, follows a young woman in New York who sleeps for an entire year. It’s darkly humorous and explores the journey of grief and acceptance from the perspective of a woman dealing with it.
My Body
Emily Ratajkowski shares her experience with the standards of beauty in a male dominated world. She tells her story growing up in the entertainment industry, where her looks completely define her career through a series of essays. It is extremely powerful and beautiful and self-aware, and I really enjoyed reading it.
Movies
Lady Bird
Greta Gerwig is amazing at portraying women in the worlds that she creates. Whether it’s Lady Bird, Little Women or Barbie, Gerwig is particularly talented at illustrating female relationships. This coming of age film breaks my heart, but also puts it back together.
Priscilla
I would recommend watching all of Sofia Coppola’s films, but especially Priscilla. The film tells the story of Priscilla Presley, from her own perspective. Coppola paints the picture of a seventeen year old Priscilla leaving home and moving into the world of Elvis Presley.
TV
I Love LA
I Love LA is a new HBO show created by Rachel Sennott. As of now, only two episodes are out, but I’m already obsessed. The show follows a group of friends that reconnect and explore their relationships and ambitions, and how the time apart has changed them. Watch this!!
Reality TV
For me, reality tv gives me an escape the reality of real life. Ironic right? Right now, I’m watching Love Island Australia and The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. I would suggest finding something that you enjoy (because there is literally a niche show for everyone)!
Music
Music is the ultimate way for me to relax and take my mind off of things. I can’t leave my apartment without my headphones.
Lorde
Lorde has been so important to me since “Royals,” came out. Her most recent album, Virgin, has been on repeat. It explores gender identity and not being the same person you were years ago. I LOVE THIS ALBUM SO MUCH!
Taylor swift
Taylor Swift has been my favorite artist since her first album came out. She has a song for every emotion possible, and her lyrics are unmatched. I think that everyone should listen to Folklore because it will change your life.