Before smartphones, apps, and meditation podcasts, people in the ‘90s had their own ways of dealing with stress. Life wasn’t as plugged in, and people learned how to handle their worries with simple, effective methods. These techniques didn’t require Wi-Fi or constant notifications—they were all about slowing down, unplugging, and reconnecting with yourself and others. Here are 10 ways the ‘90s taught us to handle stress without relying on technology.
1. Going for a Walk
In the ‘90s, if you were feeling overwhelmed, one of the best things you could do was go for a walk. Whether it was a stroll around the neighborhood or a hike in nature, walking gave you a chance to clear your head, get some fresh air, and come back to your problems with a fresh perspective. Plus, it was an easy, free way to take a break and decompress.
2. Listening to Music on a Walkman
Nothing quite beat the feeling of popping your favorite cassette or CD into your Walkman, putting on your headphones, and tuning out the world. Music was a powerful stress reliever, and the Walkman gave people a chance to escape into their own world without the distractions of texts or social media. Creating a playlist of your favorite songs today can help bring back that feeling of unplugged relaxation.
3. Writing in a Journal
Journaling was a go-to way to process emotions in the ‘90s. Whether you were writing about your day, venting frustrations, or reflecting on your thoughts, putting pen to paper helped people work through their feelings. It was a safe space to explore your mind without judgment, and it’s a practice that still helps reduce stress today.
4. Spending Time at the Park
In the ‘90s, people spent a lot of time outdoors, and a trip to the park was a great way to unwind. Whether you were sitting on a bench, watching the clouds, or playing a casual game of catch, being outside helped relieve stress and gave you a break from the hustle of daily life. Reconnecting with nature, even if it’s just a nearby park, is a timeless way to manage stress.
5. Calling a Friend
Long before texting and instant messaging, if you needed to talk, you picked up the phone and called someone. Talking through your problems with a trusted friend provided a sense of connection and support. Without the distractions of social media, phone calls were more meaningful and personal. Making time for real conversations with loved ones is still one of the best ways to relieve stress.
6. Reading a Good Book
For a lot of people in the ‘90s, getting lost in a book was a favorite way to escape from life’s worries. Whether it was fiction, a gripping thriller, or a self-help book, reading helped transport you to another world and gave your mind a break from everyday stressors. Unplugging from screens and curling up with a good book can offer the same stress-relieving benefits today.
7. Playing Outside
Kids and teens in the ‘90s spent hours playing outside—whether it was basketball, riding bikes, or just hanging out with friends in the yard. Physical activity, fresh air, and fun with friends were natural stress relievers. While life might be busier now, making time for outdoor play or exercise can still do wonders for managing stress.
8. DIY Arts and Crafts
People in the ‘90s loved getting creative—whether it was scrapbooking, painting, or making friendship bracelets. Arts and crafts were more than just a hobby; they provided a relaxing way to focus on something fun and creative, leaving stress behind. Engaging in a hands-on activity today, whether it’s crafting, knitting, or drawing, is still a great way to unplug and unwind.
9. Enjoying a Quiet Evening
In the ‘90s, after a long day, people often spent quiet evenings at home without the constant buzz of notifications. Watching a movie, enjoying a cup of tea, or just sitting in the backyard were simple, peaceful ways to decompress. Taking time to intentionally unplug and enjoy a quiet evening at home can help reduce stress and recharge your energy.
10. Playing Board Games with Family and Friends
When stress hit, families and friends in the ‘90s often turned to board games for a bit of fun and relaxation. Whether it was Monopoly, Scrabble, or Pictionary, gathering around a game brought everyone together and provided a lighthearted escape from the pressures of daily life. Bringing back game nights can offer a stress-free, tech-free way to connect and unwind with the people you care about.
11. Making a Mixed Tape (or Playlist)
Remember the joy of crafting the perfect mixed tape for yourself or a friend? Spending time selecting each song, creating a theme, and putting your emotions into a playlist was a deeply satisfying process in the ‘90s. It was a way to process your feelings and share them with others. Today, taking time to curate a playlist can bring back those relaxing vibes, letting you express yourself and unwind.
12. Taking Bubble Baths
Bubble baths weren’t just for kids in the ‘90s—they were a go-to for anyone needing to unwind. Filling up the tub, adding some bubbles or essential oils, and soaking for a while provided a blissful escape from the day’s worries. Even now, creating a spa-like experience at home can help you destress and find a bit of calm in your busy schedule.
13. Spending Time in a Café
In the ‘90s, coffee shops weren’t just about grabbing a quick caffeine fix; they were places to sit, relax, and people-watch. You’d often see people lingering over a cup of coffee, chatting with friends, or reading a book. Taking time to enjoy a drink at a café—without your laptop or phone—can be a great way to take a mental break and soak in the atmosphere.
14. Taking Up a Sport or Hobby
Sports and hobbies like tennis, knitting, or even rollerblading were popular ways to burn off steam and have some fun in the ‘90s. These activities not only provided physical exercise but also offered a way to channel energy and focus on something you enjoyed. Picking up an old hobby or trying a new one today can be an excellent outlet for stress and a way to step away from screens.
15. Making Photo Albums
Before digital cameras and social media, people captured their favorite moments on film and arranged them in photo albums. Sitting down to look through old photos or making a new album was a great way to reminisce, relax, and celebrate life’s little joys. Pull out your old albums or make a new one to reconnect with happy memories and take your mind off of stress.
These simple, tech-free ways of handling stress from the ‘90s are just as effective today. By stepping away from our screens and embracing some of these old-school methods, we can find more balance, peace, and connection in our busy modern lives. Sometimes, the best solutions are the ones that don’t need an app!
