There are a lot of reasons to love reminiscing. Not only do you get to relive the adventures you’ve had and recall the eventful times you’ve lived through, you’re also giving your mind a great workout. A number of studies have shown that reminiscing can reduce depression in older adults. In addition, memory is kind of like a muscle. The more you use it the stronger it will be!
Yet another added bonus is that reminiscence can also take the form of writing down your memories and preserving them for friends and family. All you need is a pen or pencil, some paper, and something to reminisce about. If you need to get started, try a simple prompt like the following four:
- What was your favorite bedroom out of all the ones you’ve had in your life?
- What is your favorite dish? What memories do you have around that recipe or flavor or meal?
- What was it like learning how to drive?
- What did you wear to your senior prom? What was the theme? Who did you go with? What music was played? Set the scene.
You could use a typewriter or computer, too, or even record yourself telling a friend or family member your stories— some people find it easier to think and remember out loud, or as part of a conversation that wanders instead of facing a blank page.
However you choose to record your memories, you’ll have an amazing resource you could pair with photographs, theater programs, movie ticket stubs, old corsages, wedding invitations, and more. By adding your thoughts and stories surrounding these items, you’ll be giving context to a treasure trove of personal memorabilia that can be passed down for generations to come!