How to Reduce Stress when Shopping

grocery-shoppingSome people believe that shopping can bring about so much stress in an individual. On the other hand, others also believe that shopping can be a stress-buster.  The truth is that stress can be anywhere and can be felt on anything that we do.  But, for as long as we find ways on how to reduce stress, it will never hinder our capability to live a happy and productive life.  If you want to go shopping but you are afraid that too much stress may hit you right there at the store, check out the following tips to ensure shopping will become less stressful and much more enjoyable for you:

Take a break
If you have too many things to buy and you think that you have to go out shopping for several hours, make sure that you find time for short breaks in between those shopping hours.  If you feel like your feet start to hurt and your stomach starts to churn, stop by at the nearest café. Then resume your shopping activity when you feel that your mind and body has recharged a bit and ready again to walk from one aisle to another.

Avoid caffeine
 Before you go out to shop, avoid drinking a cup of coffee.  The same is true when you are inside the store or café.  Coffee contains caffeine that may give you a relaxing feeling but this will only be for a while.  When the effects of caffeine wear off, you are making yourself vulnerable to the symptoms of anxiety and stress.  It would be best to drink plain water. Water keeps you hydrated and will help prevent dehydration to spare you from headache and dizziness.

Wear comfortable outfit
Avoid wearing clothes that are neither too tight nor too loose. Keep in mind that during shopping, you will be moving your body a lot as you will be picking and carrying some products. Choosing the wrong outfit would only spell stress on your part. Avoid wearing high heeled shoes so that you will not feel so tired during and after shopping.

Leave your credit cards at home
Bringing your credit cards while shopping will only tempt you to overspend and buy things that you do not need. Just leave your credit cards at home so that you will not end up worrying that you have just drowned yourself in debt.

Apply lavender oil on your wrists
The best way to reduce stress is to apply some amount of lavender oil on your wrist before you leave home. Smelling your wrists from time to time while shopping will help you feel relaxed and calm. Just make sure to do it in a way that will not attract much attention. You may also try some other aromatherapy oils aside from lavender and select the one which you think has the most relaxing smell. Aromatherapy has been proven to be effective in relieving one from anxiety and stress.

Shopping does not have to cause anyone so much stress. Just follow the above mentioned tips and you will find that you will not only save time and money but you will also be able to save yourself from the adverse effects of stress or anxiety. Go ahead and continue to be a wise shopper.

About the Author:
Ryan Rivera used to suffer from anxiety attacks for seven years.  He now dedicates his life in writing articles that will help people in coping with anxiety, stress, panic attacks and depression. You can read more of his writings at Calm Clinic. 

Image Credit: Everyday Food Storage 

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