Modern Hippies: Their Spending Habits and Values

Introduction to Modern Hippies

Hippies are often associated with a countercultural movement that emerged in the 1960s. While the original hippies prioritized spending on items and experiences that aligned with their values of peace, love, and alternative lifestyles, modern hippies have adapted to the times while maintaining many of these core beliefs. This article explores the common areas where modern hippies might spend their money and the values that guide their financial decisions.

Common Areas of Spending for Modern Hippies

Modern hippies often prioritize spending that supports their ideals of sustainability, communal living, and self-expression. Here are some of the key areas where they might spend their money:

Organic and Natural Foods

Many modern hippies continue to prefer organic, locally sourced, and vegetarian or vegan foods. They typically shop at farmers markets, co-ops, and health food stores. These purchases align with their commitment to environmental sustainability and health.

Alternative Medicine Practices

Spending on holistic health practices such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, yoga classes, and meditation retreats is still common among modern hippies. These practices are seen as a way to maintain physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, reflective of their holistic approach to life.

Art and Music

Vinyl records, art supplies, handmade crafts, and attending music festivals or concerts remain popular expenditures for modern hippies. Music and art continue to be central to their cultural identity and spiritual expression.

Sustainable Clothing

Many modern hippies favor thrifting, second-hand shops, and brands that promote ethical and sustainable fashion. This aligns with their commitment to reducing consumption and environmental impact. Fashion that incorporates natural fibers and eco-friendly materials is particularly favored.

Travel and Experiences

Traveling to festivals, eco-villages, or nature retreats is often prioritized over material possessions. Modern hippies look for opportunities to connect with nature, learn from diverse cultures, and experience new ways of living that align with their values of peace and respect for the planet.

Environmental Causes

Donations to environmental organizations or spending on products that promote sustainability and conservation are also important for modern hippies. They believe that supporting environmental causes is a way to contribute to a better world and inspire others to do the same.

Community Living

Some modern hippies invest in communal living arrangements or cooperative housing that align with their values of sharing and community. Living in co-housing communities or intentional communities can offer a sense of belonging and support while fostering a collective lifestyle.

DIY Projects

Many modern hippies enjoy creating their own products, such as homemade beauty products or upcycled furniture. These projects can involve spending on raw materials and tools but also provide a sense of personal fulfillment and independence.

Unique Spending Patterns of Modern Hippies

In addition to these core areas, modern hippies also have some unique spending patterns that reflect their evolving cultural context:

Cannabis

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has gained legal status in many parts of the world, becoming a part of modern hippie culture. For many, spending on cannabis products, such as a cannabis leaf pin or a tee-shirt, is a way to express their values and support a culture that values personal freedom and cannabis as a natural remedy.

Crappy Land in the Woods and Teepees

Investing in land in the woods and setting up a teepee are also popular expenditures for some modern hippies. These choices reflect their desire to live in harmony with nature and experience the simplicity of a more primitive lifestyle.

Old Volkswagon

Buying an old Volkswagen, known as a "beater" or "beetle," is another choice. These cars are often seen as eco-friendly and a symbol of spiritual freedom and adventure.

Sandals

Handmade sandals from Central America are also a favorite investment for modern hippies. These sandals are affordable, durable, and made with sustainable materials, aligning with their values of environmental consciousness and support for local artisans.

Munchy Food

Cannabis makes modern hippies hungry, and investing in "munchy" food—such as pizza—becomes a necessity. This cultural trend highlights the unconventional, yet deeply personal, ways in which modern hippies express their values and enjoy their lifestyle.

Conclusion

Modern hippies spend their money on a diverse range of items and experiences that support their values of sustainability, community, and self-expression. While there are some unique patterns in spending, many of the core values from the original hippie movement remain—focusing on organic foods, alternative medicine, art, music, sustainable clothing, and environmental causes. The evolution of modern hippie culture reflects a blend of traditional values and contemporary influences, making them a fascinating and dynamic group in today’s society.

Whether it's through organic living, supporting local art, or embracing alternative lifestyles, modern hippies continue to inspire others with their commitment to a different, more vibrant way of life.