Do you remember the feeling of elation when you found the perfect handmade sweater for your niece? Or earrings to match your pink outfit? The heightened emotions of happiness release endorphins, known as the “feel good” chemicals in your brain. When you shop, you socially interact with people around you. You make a connection between you and the maker who picked the berries and made the jam. It is wonderful to tell the story of how you met the artist who created the art hanging in you hallway. When you shop at a local market, you make a small business owner who has spent hours honing his craft happy.