We're living in a fast-moving world. It was just a few years ago when the iPhone was invented, and just a few years before that, cell phones were actually the size of bricks. We've come so far, and that's something to celebrate about. New technology is really exciting, don't get me wrong, but sometimes we leave behind some really cool traditions that our old folks had. Really, some of those old-fashioned quirks were awesome. Let's take a trip in a time machine and bring some of these amazing old-fashioned things back:
1. Handwritten letters
This is a little bit of a time consumer, but it's always worth it to show someone you care about them through a sweet (or hilarious) handwritten letter. Writing letters are actually a ton of fun, it gets your mind off of your work and allows you to unwind and write about life. By putting in the time and the effort to write a letter to someone, they notice that you love them, which is really what matters. Letters for a birthday, for sympathy, for thanks, for congratulations, or even just to say hey, will mean a lot to the lucky human who receives them. Also, who doesn't get excited when they open their mailbox and see something besides bills and ads?
2. Using a real camera
Sometimes there's just nothing else like the feeling of looking through a camera lens to capture a beautiful moment. Phones are easy and convenient, but a real camera has better-quality and distraction-free. You're not getting other notifications on your phone, you're getting a beautiful picture that will last forever. A camera allows you to fully immerse yourself in that image, and that's a timeless experience.
3. Reading paperback books (and hardcover too)
Kindle, schmindle. Having a physical copy of the book, feeling its light pages, getting that new book smell, and soaking in words like a sponge is always inspiring. You can meet new people as they ask what you're reading, and learn more from the books themselves. Plus, going to the bookstore is an adventure, and there's always a chance that you'll walk out with more than what you intended to spend. Buying used books is unique too, every book has a story and may even have notes from a previous owner scribbled in the margins. However, holding that book in your hands as you lay down and read in bed, or in the grass under the sunlight, or even waiting at the DMV, is never a bad idea.
4. Writing in a journal
With social media right at our fingertips, it's so easy to use that as an emotional outlet, but there are some things you'd rather just keep to yourself, and writing them down forces you to think through your thoughts and unwind. There's something about handwriting that feels more personal too, like a piece of you is moving from your pen to the paper. It's enough to help you get through the week, not to mention when you get that sense of accomplishment from filling up an entire journal. The best part is reading through your entries, realizing how much has changed, and reliving all the memories.
5. Board games
Board games seem to already be making a comeback, but let's make sure this trend stays around. Board games are a great way to get a group of friends together and have some fun. Board games are even beneficial to your mental health. They keep you thinking strategically. Also, board games are really fun if you engage yourself and let yourself have fun. Make sure to bring some sodas and snacks, and you're setting yourself up for a really fun and relaxing night.
6. Photo albums
No, I don't mean the photos app on your phone. I'm talking about those thick leather-bound books full of memories. Surely we all remember flipping through our parents' old pictures from college, and listening to them tell hilarious stories. It's the physical presence of these photos that makes photo albums so special; you can flip through them on your phone, but your photo albums will always be there, and you will be able to live your memories through telling stories and gazing at the beautiful pictures that captured some of the best moments of your life.
7. Walks in the park
Don't forget the great outdoors either. Nature is kind of great if you give it the time of day. Don't forget to bring a book, your journal, or even your laptop to do some work. The point is, just go outside. You can bring a special someone, friends, your parents, or even your furry friends. Feel the warm sunlight on your skin, and appreciate the cool breezes. Smell the colorful wildflowers, and remember that there's a huge, green, and beautiful world around you waiting to be explored. If you spend even an hour outside every now and then, it'll really help you relax, unwind, and keep you refreshed.
Sometimes, the old way of doing things are better. It's not always faster or more convenient, but it can be more meaningful and worthwhile. Whether it's writing a sweet card to your mom to tell her you're thinking of her, or writing in a journal while sitting barefoot in the grass of your favorite park, the old-fashioned way can leave you feeling happier. We don't have to start living without heat or electricity, or quit engaging with our world's growing innovations. Just don't forget to embrace the moments we've been given, and create memories that will always be timeless.
