As the festive season rolls in, our shopping habits intensify. But what’s behind this seasonal shopping frenzy?
The Joy of Shopping Explained
According to Dr. Ashish Bhatt, when we indulge in holiday shopping, our brains release dopamine, often known as the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter. This release creates a cycle of pleasure and desire that can be hard to break.
Harvard’s Dr. Ann-Christine Duhaime adds that this is rooted in our basic survival mechanisms. Our ancestors’ need to gather resources with minimal effort now manifests in our modern-day shopping sprees. Retailers tap into these primal urges with enticing deals and emotionally appealing marketing strategies.
Finding Balance
While shopping can be rewarding, it’s essential to be aware of when it borders on addictive behavior. Monitoring your spending habits during the holidays can help maintain a healthy balance between joy and responsibility.
Click here to discover more about the effects of Internet shopping and how to cut down.
