Shopping Tips That Protect Your Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Some people love shopping and some people hate it. But love it or hate it, there’s no denying that it’s sometimes necessary. From groceries to Christmas to back-to-school, shopping is a part of life. And when we’re in shopping season -- like during the holidays -- it often feels like a dreaded part of life. On top of the lack of desire, shopping when you’re not used to it also hurts! If you need to hit the mall to stock up on gifts or clothes or anything else, take a look at these tips to make your shopping excursion healthy.
Take Breaks
Shopping means being on your feet all day long. Hours of walking, stopping, browsing, and standing can make for a sore back. To help negate this side effect, make sure you leave plenty of time for breaks. After an hour or two, stop and rest on a bench or at a table. Stretch your legs and back and neck. Work out any stiffness, and rest the body for a good 15 minutes. Once you feel refreshed and rested, get back up and keep going. Frequent rests may be all it takes to keep you feeling pain-free throughout your shopping experience.
Wear Good Shoes
It might be tempting to look your cutest while you’re shopping, but resist this temptation. Don’t dress for looks. Dress for comfort. Wear comfortable clothes, and most especially, make sure that your shoes are both comfortable and supportive. Since you’ll be on your feet all day, you’ll need this support to take the pressure off of your feet and even your back. If you want to avoid the pain, start at the shoes and go from there.
Carry Snacks
If you plan on shopping the majority of the day, it will be incredibly beneficial to take along some healthy snacks. Pack some almonds, a bag of baby carrots, or some apple slices in your bag. When you need a snack, pull out one of these healthy options instead of reaching for a mall cookie, a hotdog, or some other concession stand or food court option. This may save you hundreds of calories while also giving you a boost of nutrients. This will take a little longer in the preparation of your shopping trip, but it will be worth it for your health and the way that you feel at the end of the day.
Shopping can be a chore. But at some times of the year, it’s inevitable. Keep your shopping trip healthy with these tips. With just a little preparation, you may be able to protect your body from the pain and discomfort of shopping making the entire experience more enjoyable for everyone.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Clifton Park, N.Y.
