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Holiday Shopping—Preventing Pain and Fatigue
Preventing Pain During Holiday Shopping
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Shopping on any given day can be a tiring experience, but braving the malls and shopping centers during the busy holiday season is a real test of endurance that can drain both your physical and mental health.
Occupational therapists can offer tips to help you conquer the crowds, conserve your energy, and make holiday shopping more enjoyable. |
What can people do during the holidays to shop smarter?
- Lighten up. Don't carry a lot of heavy packages around. Make frequent trips to your car and use your trunk as a locker.
- Lift and carry correctly. Remember when lifting packages, especially heavy ones, to lift with your legs. Carry the load close to your body, and be sure it's balanced. If you can't comfortably lift a package, ask for help.
- Avoid neck and shoulder strain. When carrying a shoulder bag or purse, alternate shoulders. Consider carrying a backpack and use both shoulder straps to evenly distribute the weight.
- Set limits. Recognize your energy limits and plan accordingly. Don't overdo it, and schedule time to take breaks. Plan short shopping trips—don't cram everything into one day.
- Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals. Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle as you shop. Eat small, frequent meals and lots of fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Avoid high-carbohydrate and high-sugar foods: They may give you a quick burst of energy, but they will leave you with plummeting blood sugar and more tired than ever.
- Consider shopping from home. Stay out of the stores altogether and shop at your favorite store Web sites. Most retail stores offer online ordering, or order from catalogs by telephone.
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Need more information ? |
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Staying strong and healthy during the holidays is important to a person's overall long-term health. Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are trained in helping both adults and children with a broad range of physical, developmental, and psychological conditions. Practitioners also offer clients wellness techniques that may prevent injury and disease. If you would like to consult an occupational therapist, practitioners are available through most hospitals, medical centers, and community clinics
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