Gen Z has grown up as the internet’s guinea pig generation, constantly shaped by rapid advances in technology and social media addictions. At the same time, they are among the most self-aware when it comes to their own unhealthy habits. After being pushed almost entirely online during quarantine and developing screen dependence, it might seem unlikely that Gen Z would ever want to try to reduce their screen time.
Americans, but especially Gen Z, live fast-paced modern lives dominated by their phones. Doom-scrolling has become a common habit, one that many young people have grown too familiar with, often leaving them feeling burnt out and anxious. However, Gen Z is recognizing the toll this constant digital lifestyle takes on their mental health and overall well-being, sparking this search and need for slower, more intentional ways to live, which is how “Nonna-Maxxing” was born.
What is Nonna-Maxxing?
Nonna-maxxing, or grandma-maxxing, is a new lifestyle trend that puts a new spin on cottagecore. The trend encourages embracing traditionally “grandma-like” hobbies such as sewing, knitting, gardening, baking, and cooking all while taking in a quiet, cozy, and intentional way of life. It encourages people to minimize screen-time and find the time to learn new hobbies. The nostalgic feeling one has when thinking about their grandma’s house is what really makes this trend so appealing. Nicole Cappetta has been embracing this lifestyle by taking up baking, crocheting, junk journaling, and puzzles. @mary.erin.123 has taken up quilting, as well as sitting outside more. Kayla Abrahams, has taken up purchasing real ingredients and making slow-cooked meals such as soups and stews.
The trend was inspired by a fascination with Italian nonnas and their seemingly effortless, slow-paced lifestyle. It first appeared as a pinterest-style mood board post. The post romanticizes a nonna summer, with it emphasizing eating air dried salted beef, fresh produce, and having lengthy lunches with friends. While the concept isn’t entirely new, it draws on the Mediterranean approach to life that many Europeans are known for such as savoring the small pleasures, taking time for meaningful activities, and prioritizing well-being over constant hustle. This lifestyle contrasts to the fast-paced lifestyle common in the United States, which is why Gen-Z wants to adopt it.
How to embrace Nonna-Maxxing
One of the most comforting things about visiting your grandma’s house is the good food. Homemade sweet treats, meals, and the smell of baking in the oven always brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Nonna-maxxing is all about bringing that same feeling into your home kitchen and lifestyle.
Baking is a cornerstone of the trend. To fully embrace the grandma lifestyle, try making cookies, cupcakes or bread from scratch. Grandmas love to give, so baking for your friends or family not only spreads joy but also gives you extra motivation to get in the kitchen.
Nonna-maxxing is all about savoring meals, taking the time to cook with care, and enjoying every bite. Hosting your friends or families, using cooking as a love language to give back, and enjoying spending time together with food is essential to Nonna-maxxing. The kitchen is a grandma’s safe space, a place where they can create memories for others and share love through food.
Outside of the kitchen, Nonna-maxxing is about slowing down by reading more, gardening or taking up other hobbies away from the internet that nurture the mind and soul. Simply enjoying a slow morning with a cup of tea is also considered Nonna-maxxing. It is a lifestyle that values creativity and comfort, both for yourself and for those around you.