From the Y2K fashion making a comeback to reboots of old movies and TV shows, it’s crystal clear now that nostalgia is recently playing an enormous part in our lives, like a familiar companion living in each one of us, giving us bittersweet glimpses of the good old days even if they weren't long ago.
We frequently find ourselves reminiscing on the joys of childhood, and simpler times that bring us a sense of comfort. Yet the immense longing remains, it has even increased in the past few years. I bet you found a couple of Gen Z individuals longing for a time they didn't even live, reveling in old flip phones and music that is even from the 70s’ and 80s’ but have you ever wondered why? Here are some reasons why you are probably feeling overly nostalgic lately.
Covid-19 and its aftermath
We all witnessed a pandemic that affected us all in one way or another, maybe the biggest global traumatic event of the social media age. People's shared experiences of loss and anxiety during the pandemic have caused them to yearn for old memories. Most people missed out on cornerstone events in their lives during the lockdown, so we simply cannot fathom the fact that time passed and we cannot relive this time in our lives so instead our minds revisit the normalcy of pre-pandemic times.
It brings comfort during hard times
There is no denying that we are facing rough patches now more than ever, especially with the continuous increase of climate change, inflation, and ongoing wars and genocides that we are currently witnessing. It seems like a totally normal response to shut off from reality and live in the past life they loved dearly.
Several psychological studies showed that nostalgia can be linked to seeking solace in familiar and joyful memories, similar to visiting a place that brings you happiness even if it’s only for the short while of reliving a memory.
Rapid technological advancements
With the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) that has intensified significantly over the past decade, people are now experiencing the phenomena of “tech-nostalgia” exceedingly, which refers to the sentimental longing people have for older technology and past digital experiences. No wonder we now want to listen to songs on the Walkman, play Atari, and take pictures on digital cameras instead of our smartphones.
As depressing as it may seem to yearn for a time you cannot return to, it actually has some positive aspects. Nostalgia can evoke a sense of warmth and happiness which is often linked to cherished memories from childhood or other pleasant periods in life, making you feel connected with others from those happy past moments that you shared together.
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