It’s no secret that the news cycle can be downright exhausting. With every headline seemingly darker than the last, it’s easy to feel swallowed by the weight of the world—helpless, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. In times like these, many of us turn to something that feels simple but surprisingly powerful: nostalgia.
Nostalgia isn’t a magical fix for the world’s problems. It won’t erase the challenges or make uncertainty disappear. But it can offer something vital—comfort. A chance to breathe, to step back from the chaos, and to reconnect with moments that felt safe, joyful, or uncomplicated. And right now, a collective craving for those kinds of moments seems to be everywhere.
Look around, and it’s clear that nostalgia is in the air. In the UK, for instance, the sounds of Britpop and the boy bands of the 90s and early 2000s are making a triumphant return. Sportswear brands are dusting off their 90s styles for fresh revivals. Printed magazines from those decades—once thought obsolete—are enjoying a renaissance through podcasts and exhibitions. It’s as if, together, we’re reaching out to the past for reassurance.
Why Nostalgia Feels So Good Right Now
Of course, no era is without its flaws, and nostalgia has a sneaky way of polishing over the imperfections, creating a somewhat rose-tinted glow. But when the present feels uncertain or even bleak, looking back—even at an idealized past—can be a balm for our wellbeing.
Psychologists have found that nostalgia actually serves several important emotional purposes. It can reduce feelings of loneliness, increase a sense of meaning, and even boost optimism about the future. When we revisit cherished memories from childhood or simpler times, it reminds us that joy and connection are possible, even when they feel out of reach.
This is not about living in the past or refusing to face reality. Rather, nostalgia can be a gentle refuge, a momentary pause where we gather strength and perspective before stepping back into the fray.
How We Find Nostalgia in Everyday Life
For many of us, nostalgia sneaks in through familiar sights, sounds, and rituals. It might be the crackle of a vinyl record spinning, the smell of a favorite childhood snack, or the comfort of an old TV show theme song playing unexpectedly.
At Refinery29, our editors share their own personal nostalgia touchstones—those small, sweet moments that bring back a rush of warmth and calm when life feels chaotic. Maybe it’s a particular album that transports you back to your teenage years, or a classic movie that feels like a hug. Sometimes, it’s as simple as pulling out a box of old photographs and remembering the stories behind them.
Embracing Nostalgia Mindfully
It’s important to recognize that nostalgia doesn’t erase the problems of today. Instead, it can be a tool—something we turn to intentionally when we need grounding or emotional support.
If you find yourself overwhelmed by the news or stressed about the future, try carving out some time to revisit something nostalgic. Put on that playlist that reminds you of better days, flip through a childhood book, or watch a movie that always makes you smile. Notice how these moments affect your mood and energy. You might be surprised by the comfort and calm they bring.
At the same time, be mindful not to use nostalgia as a way to avoid the present or dismiss real issues. It’s a stepping stone, not a destination—a way to recharge before moving forward.
The Collective Power of Nostalgia
The resurgence of 90s and 2000s culture—whether through music, fashion, or media—also speaks to a shared human need. In uncertain times, finding common ground through shared memories can foster connection. Whether you bonded over Spice Girls or Oasis, or collected sports jerseys from that era, those memories create a sense of belonging that transcends age and background.
So, while nostalgia might be about looking backward, it also has the power to bring us together in the here and now.
Final Thoughts: Why We All Deserve a Little Nostalgia
No matter who you are or where you come from, moments of nostalgia can serve as quiet anchors in a noisy world. They remind us that despite all the turmoil, there have been—and still are—spaces of joy, connection, and comfort.
So next time you feel overwhelmed by the headlines or the pressures of life, don’t hesitate to reach for that old mixtape, that photo album, or that favorite childhood treat. Nostalgia might not solve everything, but it offers a gentle, healing reminder: we have roots, memories, and moments of happiness that can sustain us through even the toughest times.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.
