At first you hesitate, but eventually you concede. After all, you\u2019ve heard that shopping is cheaper than therapy (not really, but it\u2019s definitely more gratifying). And, next thing you know, there you are. Talking, moving, laughing. Taking in the energy of hundreds of vibrant people. You feel energised. You feel alive. And despite wondering whether this accumulation of material items actually fixes anything, you can\u2019t help but enjoy it.<\/p>\n
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Turns out, science has spoken, and retail therapy actually does help. Go figure. <\/strong><\/p>\n Your brain is a complex, intricate, and sometimes weird entity. It craves all sorts of things- validation, acknowledgement, stability, and, most of all, control. In fact, research indicates that many who comfort shop seek the latter above all else. In your mind, it\u2019s a logical coping mechanism. You\u2019re able to control where you go, who you\u2019re with and what you purchase. In situations where people are often powerless, suddenly they have the ability to make decisions. In an instant, you can exercise autonomy. You feel back in charge- almost like you again. Today\u2019s retail environment is as much about complete sensory experiences as actually buying things. As people work their way up and develop aspirations, they seek an environment that recognises this progress. Somewhere that they can feel validated and rub shoulders with other upcoming go-getters. Furthermore, humans are sociable by nature and have a natural ability to barter, making the concept of frequenting the market place literally embedded in our cultural DNA.<\/p>\n
\nBut not all shoppers are stressed, so what\u2019s the deal?<\/p>\n
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