If you've ever thought of shopping as "therapy"... you're probably right! Turns out shopping really does make us happy - it's effective at elevating mood, and it doesn't lead to buyer's regret, research by The Pennsylvania State University shows.

All of the shoppers in a research sample said they had bought themselves a treat during the past week—ranging from a fishing reel to a kitchen magnet (that's the sort of treat we'd all buy ourselves, right?!) —and 62% of the treat purchases were motivated by a desire to repair a bad mood. 

Asked about their post-purchase feelings, 82% of participants had only positive things to say. There seem to be few, if any, downside consequences of retail therapy, the researchers say.  Which is good news for those of us heading out for some lunch time retail therapy!

In the spirit of retail therapy - and to celebrate my birthday month this August - I'm delighted to offer all sphinxx readers a special 50 per cent discount on all orders over $50 in the sphinxx online shop. This offer is for the month of August only. All books, CDs, DVDs and gifts in the sphinxx shop are eligible for this special 50% off on all orders over $50 - simply select your items as you browse and then enter the discount code 50from50 when you check out to have the discount automatically applied to your order price.

Offer applies while stocks last - so it's first in, happiest dressed on this offer!