Fashion from the past, music from the 70s-90s that suddenly became a new trend on TikTok, cassettes in stores, old film cameras, vinyl records collected by teenagers, and old sitcoms. Teenagers everywhere are discovering bands and styles that were popular before they were born. So what is the matter, and why are we so drawn to media from the past?
Nostalgia provides a powerful outlet for today’s stress. It feels good to look back, have fun, remember good times, and realize what we have achieved. Sometimes those memories return so vividly as if everything happened just yesterday. For example, I like to remember my past experiences and realize that I once flew to another country, always a warrior, to a school that I had not seen in five years, yet according to old photographs, everything seems like it was only yesterday.
Every few months, I also feel a desire to watch a favorite childhood cartoon, or listen to a song I used to enjoy with my family in the car. I even play games that remind me of carefree days when my brother and I could sit and play for hours.
Media creators know this, and they take advantage of it. Every few months, we can see another reboot of a finished series, a sequel, or some retro trend. And who wouldn’t be happy to revisit the times when they watched their favorite series and then discover a sequel is coming out? Or to buy vintage clothes that resemble the style of their parents in old photos? We are constantly exposed to familiar elements from the past, which give us a sense of connection, almost as if we were a part of it.
Beyond simply bringing back good memories, nostalgia can have a real impact on our emotional state. Psychologists say it activates parts of the brain that increase comfort and calm. So when something reminds us of a time when life seemed easier, whether it’s a song or a movie, it can ease our anxiety.
Another interesting aspect of nostalgia is how it connects different generations. For example, parents or older relatives might show us the music and movies they grew up with, creating moments where the age difference no longer matters. My mom and I loved re-watching Pretty Woman, and I could see how much she enjoyed it, even though I’m sure she had seen it a thousand times. This is why some old content still feels new, it’s not only about when it was created, but about the emotions it evokes.
Still, it’s important to remember that nostalgia should inspire us, not trap us. It is wonderful to look back, but we also need to keep moving forward, because if we focus only on the past, we might miss new ideas or opportunities.
The past is not just a memory, it is a critical part of our identity. Nostalgia gives us a sense of security, helping us recognize how far we have come. Perhaps that is why we treasure it so much.
Aiperi Abdysamatova
Photo: Pexels-Pixabay