As a psychotherapist, I’m always open to ways we can feel less anxious and alone. Some of us have a destressing toolbox which might include yoga, meditation, crafting, pets and the like. I’d like to add one that is a bit less conventional.

Thrift stores provide a kind of mini community and sense of shared purpose (the thrill of the hunt) that’s important in times like these. We’re in the middle of an epidemic of loneliness, and I find that frequenting my local thrift is a way of feeling less isolated. There’s no pressure to have long involved conversations with fellow thrifters. Instead, one might ask, “what is the color of the day?”, “can I slide my cart by you?” and engage in small talk that helps us feel a bit more connected. I’ve had sweet conversations that have left me feeling a little more energized and uplifted.

There’s also something about rescuing abandoned quality clothing that is satisfying to me, but may be an acquired taste. Some have expressed concerns that buying from the thrift stores takes away resources from people with less means. I’ve had concerns about this myself. That’s why I was happy to be able to put this question directly to Adam Minter, an expert in the global second hand trade (his episode link is below). From my experience, the racks are so stuffed at the thrift stores there’s more than enough for everyone. I was also surprised to see U.S. used clothes at a recent trip to a chain thrift store in the Caribbean. There’s simply too much stuff. 

Thrifters agree that the thrill of the hunt is addicting. It’s fun to find that needle in the haystack of discarded items. I’m partial to cashmere–especially vintage–and I’ve been lucky to find many beautiful pieces that I’ve taken home and restored. They are a pleasure to wear. Thrifting isn’t for everyone. But it might be worth trying if you like hunting for hidden gems and being around people who like that too. You never know what you will find.

https://sites.libsyn.com/456789/adam-minter-where-does-your-discarded-stuff-go

Find out more about the Zestful Aging Podcast at ZestfulAging.com