The holiday season brings out our inner shopaholics, but what’s the science behind this shopping surge?
A Neurological Look at Shopping
Holiday shopping provides a boost of dopamine, explains Dr. Ashish Bhatt, making each purchase feel rewarding. This cycle of pleasure can turn habitual, keeping us in a constant loop of buying.
Harvard’s Dr. Ann-Christine Duhaime sheds light on how our brains’ reward systems, a legacy of our evolutionary past, are activated by holiday shopping. This drive is further fueled by retailers who skillfully create a sense of urgency and emotional connection through their marketing strategies.
Staying Mindful Amid the Shopping Spree
Though it’s normal to enjoy holiday shopping, it’s vital to recognize when it begins to control your spending habits. Being conscious of your shopping patterns can help maintain a healthy balance during the festive season.
Click here to discover more about the effects of Internet shopping and how to cut down.
