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The Best Shows on Netflix for Stressed-Out People

While we’re suckers for a good psychological thriller, our anxiety can only handle so many jump-scares before bed. So, if you’re looking for a soothing show to watch on Netflix, be sure to check out one (or all) of these six series that are perfect for stressed-out people.

mary berry great british baking show
Lauren Hurley/Getty Images

‘the Great British Baking Show'

Seasons: 5

Sure, you can’t go wrong with comfort food, but studies show that cooking (or watching people cook) is a low-key form of behavioral therapy. The British accents are the icing on the cake. (Literally.)

comedians in cars getting coffee
Courtesy of Netflix

‘comedians In Cars Getting Coffee'

Seasons Collections: 5

Watching a stand-up routine is the ultimate distraction. So, if you’re looking for a feel-good show that doesn’t require a trip to the comedy club, then be sure to check out Jerry Seinfeld’s Carpool Karaoke-esque series.

gilmore girls characters
Robert Voets/Netflix

‘gilmore Girls'

Seasons: 7

Don’t let the fast dialogue fool you. The sitcom combines everything we love about a calming soap opera with the non-committal benefits of a stand-alone series. (This means you can fall asleep while watching and not feel lost when you resume three episodes later.)

Watch ‘Gilmore Girls’

planet earth tv show netflix
BBC 2016

‘planet Earth'

Seasons: 1 + Planet Earth II

It may seem like work to be invested in the ecosystem of a tropical rainforest. But there comes a time in everyone’s life when watching cute animals is an absolute necessity, considering studies show it can alleviate stress. (Bonus: David Attenborough’s soothing narrations.)

Watch ‘Planet Earth’

worlds most extraordinary homes
Courtesy of Netflix

‘the World's Most Extraordinary Homes'

Seasons: 2

We love a good home reno show. But there’s something about the British docuseries that soothes us far more than choosing between homes one, two and three on House Hunters.

lisa kudrow grace and frankie
Melissa Moseley/Netflix

‘grace And Frankie'

Seasons: 4

Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda play two women whose husbands divorce them to be with each other. While the show could easily be, um, dark, the comedic timing will politely remind you that life goes on (and the dysfunction will make you feel better about your own stress-filled existence).


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