Because we live in a culture of materialism in which accumulation is often equated with happiness, women sometimes find themselves attempting to create happiness or alleviate feelings of anxiety, depression or trauma through shopping. When buying things does not help, women may find themselves buying more in an attempt to hold onto the fleeting feelings of satisfaction it creates.
Buy Nothing Day, observed on November 24, began in an effort to increase awareness of the impact of materialism on society. Brookhaven Retreat encourages women to buy nothing for one day or even one week and see the profound impact this can have. Women may also practice mindful shopping by making a list of desired purchases and then evaluating the necessity of each item. Then, while shopping, women can analyze their feelings as they shop, avoid unnecessary browsing and stop to evaluate their feelings, making sure they are not purchasing for emotional reasons.
Through the cultivation of mindfulness and self–esteem combined with appropriate therapy tools, women can overcome their addiction to shopping and discover happiness within themselves.
