Downshifting literally means shifting to a lower gear while driving, but in the modern world this term is used in a completely different meaning. There is a whole ideology of downshifting, the apologists of which oppose the traditional way of life.
Who are downshifters?
The concept of downshifting in its usual meaning was first used in the American press in the early 90s of the last century. This is a sociocultural phenomenon, which represents the idea of abandoning “imposed” values: careers, social status, financial viability in exchange for travel, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and reducing environmental damage. The environmental component is very often present in downshifting. His supporters are trying to eat products grown independently, are more attentive to the issue of waste disposal. Sometimes downshifters form whole ecovillages in which the use of synthetics is minimized, and even houses are built from environmentally friendly materials.
The ideology of downshifting is closely related to the ideas of the hippie movement. The similarity can be found in the external attributes, and in the declared values, and in the passion for vegetarianism.
