Essential Practices from the 70s Worth Rebuilding in 2025

In the whirlwind of the 21st century, the pace of life often feels relentless and unyielding. However, a glance back at the 1970s might offer some valuable insights for finding balance in today's world.

During that era, a culture of repair was prevalent, where clothes were mended, appliances were fixed, and things were not quickly discarded. This mindset of repair and maintenance, long lost in the age of fast fashion and built-in obsolescence, is beneficial in reconnecting us with the value of what we own.

Communication too, took on a different form. Handwritten letters, devoid of emojis or disappearing messages, were a common means of communication. Receiving a heartfelt handwritten note can be a powerful experience due to its rarity in today's digital age.

Research consistently shows that strong social connections are one of the biggest predictors of well-being. Shared meals, a common practice during dinner time in the 1970s, strengthen family bonds, improve mental health, and help children perform better academically.

Walking, a simple activity that was more prevalent in the 1970s, is often associated with more creativity, easing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and serving as meditation in motion. It is no wonder that walking is dubbed as a 'super habit', offering numerous health benefits.

Reading for pleasure was a popular form of entertainment in the 1970s, providing a different cognitive impact than digital media. A study found that reading for just six minutes can lower stress levels by 68%.

Casual get-togethers, where people showed up at each other's houses with a six-pack or a dish to share, were common in the 1970s. This sense of community and camaraderie, often lost in our busy modern lives, can greatly enhance our well-being.

Eastern philosophy often emphasises slowing down and living with intention, as expressed by Lao Tzu's quote, "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." In 2025, "busyness" is often used as a distraction from what is important, and slowing down can lead to increased productivity and fulfillment.

The author suggests that bringing back some '70s habits in 2025 could help us find more balance in a world that never seems to stop moving. So, let us take a leaf out of the 1970s book, and rediscover the charm of a slower, more intentional way of life.