Life was different in the 1950s. People weren’t afforded the modern conveniences of technology, convenient transportation, computers, smartphones, microwaves, televisions in every room, fast food restaurants, and so much more.
I’d argue life was slow, simple, and balanced. Wellness wasn’t a buzzword in the 1950s, but it didn’t need to be. It was a way of life and the way life was intended.
There was a sense of pride in daily routines that went beyond just getting stuff done. People took time to cook, garden, spend time with people, and exercise.
Here’s a look at a few wellness practices worth bringing back from the 1950s.
1. Taking Daily Walks
In the 1950s, taking a daily walk was common practice. Today, there’s a little less walking, while the world seems a little bigger and farther away.
Without the convenience of personal cars in every driveway and public transportation, walking was a part of everyone’s daily routine. Of course, there were local stores on corners throughout neighborhoods, and institutions like schools were closer. Maybe it’s time to bring this practice back.
2. Eating Homemade Meals
Processed foods were uncommon, and the convenience of fast food hadn’t taken hold in the 1950s. Food rationing was still in place, allowing people to eat more vegetables and drink more milk. Their diets also contained less fat, cheese, and sugar.
These diets were simple yet sufficient. The emphasis on home-cooked meals meant that people could control what they ate and, therefore, eat healthier.
3. Getting in Time for Moderate Exercise
Exercise in the 1950s didn’t involve high-intensity interval training or gym memberships. Instead, they focused on integrating flexibility, strength, and general fitness through everyday activities.
Calisthenics was popular. Jack LaLanne became a national celebrity when he created the Jack LaLanne Show, which aired from 1953 to 1985 and featured calisthenics and healthy living. People benefited from push-ups, pull-ups, and squats.
Today, we’re focused on doing much, which often leads to doing less.
4. Going to Bed Early
The importance of a good night’s sleep was appreciated in the 1950s. Without smartphone distractions and social media, people went to bed earlier and woke feeling refreshed. Good sleep was prioritized, and couples often slept in separate beds.
Getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep has been shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and maintain physical health. You should try it sometime.
5. Dancing
In the 1950s, pop culture was exploding. Rock and roll, led by icons like Elvis Presley, emerged and encouraged people to get moving. Swing dancing, jitterbug dancing, and ballroom dancing were fun ways to stay active and connect with others.
These social dances were often held at community centers, school gyms, and local clubs. They helped improve cardiovascular health, coordination, and flexibility while also reducing stress and promoting mental well-being.
6. Having a Small Vegetable Gardens
Small vegetable gardens in the backyard were popular in the 1950s. People enjoyed fresh produce that provided healthier, pesticide-free foods. However, as supermarkets and apartment living became more prevalent, the popularity of these gardens decreased.
Recently, though, the concept has begun to make a comeback due to growing concerns over food quality and sustainability. Growing your own food can help reduce grocery bills and promote a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
One method gaining popularity is vertical gardening or indoor gardening. People are growing small vegetables indoors, often without soil. It’s something to look into.
7. Hula Hooping
Although the hula hoop was created well before the 1950s, its popularity took off during this decade. Toy company Toltoys produced more than 400,000 in 1957. The hula hoop helped strengthen core muscles and it was a playful way to get your heart rate up without feeling like a workout.
Many modern day fitness classes have incorporated hula hooping and even provide weight hoops for additional resistance, however, this pastime deserves a bigger revival. Hula hooping is perfect for kids and adults to get outside and start moving those hips.
8. Single-Tasking
Multitasking was not a natural part of life in the 1950s. There were fewer distractions and no digital devices. People were focused on one task at a time, like reading the newspaper, preparing a meal, or having a conversation.
Today, we’re learning that multitasking can be counterproductive and lead to burnout. Research shows that focusing on one task at a time improves concentration, increases efficiency, and enhances overall well-being. A more focused approach to living is needed and should be appreciated.
9. Creative Hobbies
In the 1950s, creative hobbies like knitting, sewing, woodworking, and painting were widely practiced and considered valuable forms of relaxation and self-expression. They allowed people to use their hands, focus their minds, and create something tangible, which can be seen as deeply satisfying and stress relieving.
Today, these hobbies allow you to unplug from digital distractions and engage in meaningful, tactile activities. They promote slow living and being present to provide a break from the demands of modern life and promote your mental well-being.
10. Labor-Intensive Cleaning
Cleaning isn’t explicitly considered a wellness practice. However, cleaning schedules reminiscent of the 1950’s encourage increased physical activity and less clutter. They are essential in creating a healthy, organized home supporting mental and emotional well-being.
While washing machines were becoming more common, they were not as advanced as they are today. Many people still needed to manually remove water from clothing. Clothes had to be hung to dry and ironed with heavy, stove-heated flat irons. Many homes lacked dishwashers, and we can’t forget how heavy and cumbersome the vacuums were in the 1950s.
Modern appliances significantly reduce the time and effort required for these tasks. However, cleaning can still be considered a wellness practice worth bringing back in a different way. Try taking time to mindfully clean and organize your space to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and foster a sense of accomplishment.
11. Slow Living
In general, the 1950s was slower than today. The overall vibe was more relaxed. Families had little extra money for treats, so they budgeted and had less debt. They played board games and read the newspaper. They had less stuff and less waste.
It was common to see neighbors chatting and families enjoying leisure time together. Life was a lot more simple and deliberate.
How slow living looks for your life depends on you. Start by getting rid of things you don’t need and practice giving yourself extra time to get somewhere. Keep your schedule open and see where the day takes you.
12. Community Involvement
Life in the 1950s focused on family and community. Local clubs, church groups, and neighborhood associations provided a means of social support and a sense of belonging. People knew their neighbors and participated in community events.
Bringing this wellness practice back might reduce loneliness and improve emotional well-being. Try getting outside and meeting your neighbors.
13. DIY Remedies
Although there was no substitution for modern medicine advancements, the people of the 1950s relied on natural ingredients like honey, lemon, and herbs for coughs, colds, and digestive problems.
They made toothpaste with baking soda and used ginger ale to treat upset stomachs and minimize the use of over-the-counter medications. They emphasized the body’s ability to heal itself for non-serious conditions. I suspect they had a holistic view of health because they had to, but there’s something to be learned here, too.
