The future is analog!

Doesn’t that sound backwards? But have you heard of this?

On Friday I attended a neighborhood gathering. The beautiful warm weather has a grip on us all and encouraged a large attendance for the snack and chat event.

I ended up speaking with some of my favorite ladies that are in a life stage beyond mine and had a downright wonderful time as we discussed hobbies. It wasn’t an intentional discussion on hobbies but the conversation naturally wove through garden prep to sourdough to needlepoint and antique shops. We have a lot of things we enjoy in common!

One woman even mentioned that her daughter taught her a new trending word for all these hobbies she enjoys- analogging.

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Have you heard of this?

I’ve heard the term “grandma hobbies” and “going analog” but whatever you call it, I’ve also witnessed an increased trend in these hands-on, non-digital based ways to spend time. Analog hobbies help break the dependency on screen based entertainment and the “doom scrolling” that is so easy to fall victim to these days. And I am here for it!

What are Analog Hobbies?

• Cooking and baking
• Gardening
• Needlepoint, knitting, crocheting, sewing
• Reading books
• Coloring
• Junk journaling
• Jigsaw puzzles
• Walking and hiking
• Crossword puzzles or sudoku

I would like to add blog reading and Substack to the list because even though it’s digital, it feels more analog to me check to in on someone’s life and thoughts through a written medium. I might even add phone calls or Marco Polo because those methods of connection I’ve found to be very fulfilling.

I do think it’s funny that this is trending though. I thought it was something I was just being drawn to in my own life, but it’s neat to hear that I’m not the only one experiencing digital fatigue and finding respite in slower living. It really does feed the soul.

Going analog isn’t about going full on Little House on the Prairie, but it is about finding something to reach for beyond a screen. It’s about rediscovering the satisfaction and peace that comes with accomplishing something with your own two hands: a meal, a piece of art, a cozily decorated spot in your home, a plant thriving, a completed puzzle, a clean chicken coop (just me?).

And with that, I’m off to feed my starter!

Have you heard of this trend?
Is there any analog hobbies you’ve rediscovered peace and joy with lately?