Thanksgiving season is finally here, which means it's also almost time for Black Friday!
People will spend hours and hours cooking turkeys and casseroles. Some will crowd around the television to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and others will just lounge around and get some much-needed rest and relaxation.
But after everyone has feasted on their favorite holiday meal, some people will hop in the car and head out to the stores.
Yep, as soon as Thanksgiving is over, it's officially Black Friday!
For many people, Black Friday is the beginning of the Christmas season. Individuals rush out to stores to buy toys, electronics, and other gifts and presents.
You might think that going shopping at ridiculous hours of the morning sounds awful, but tons of people absolutely love it.
And it might surprise you, but going shopping on Black Friday can actually be good for your health!
The History Of Black Friday Shopping
Black Friday, which is often the busiest shopping day of the year, has a pretty interesting history.
The Friday after Thanksgiving has always been a busy shopping day, since it marks the beginning of Christmas season. It wasn't officially termed "Black Friday" until 1951. This usage, though, referred to the predictable surge in workers calling in sick the day after Thanksgiving, so the term didn't stick.
In 1961, police began using "Black Friday" to describe the crowds and congestion that started the day after Thanksgiving. Again, the term didn't gain much traction.
It wasn't until the 1980s that the phrase caught on — this time, it was because retailers would lower prices right after Thanksgiving in order to make extra holiday money and get out of the "red" and into the "black."
Why People Love Black Friday Shopping
There are a ton of reasons why people love Black Friday, but most people like the shopping holiday because of the incredible deals.
Not only can you buy gifts for a fraction of the price they normally cost, but shopping for presents for friends and family can really get you into the giving spirit.
Why Black Friday Shopping Is Healthy For You #1: Sense Of Competition
When most people think of Black Friday, they think about crazed shoppers running into a store at 3:00 a.m., since that's what the media shows.
That might sound terrifying for some people, but for others the sense of competition can be really fun.
Not only does it make people feel more excited and playful, competition can give you a boost of healthy adrenaline.
#2: Deals Make Us Happy
Black Friday deals and coupons have a positive effect on our brain.
According to a Clermont University study, people who used coupons to shop had decreased levels of stress, higher oxytocin levels, and rated their own happiness higher.
#3: Walking Is Good For You
Of course, one of the more obvious benefits of going shopping is all the walking (and maybe even running) you'll be doing.
Walking has a ton of health benefits, including improved heart health, lower blood pressure, better mood, stronger bones, lowered risk of diabetes, and more.
#4: Spending Time With Friends And Family Is Good For You
Many people go Black Friday shopping with friends or family members.
Spending this time with loved ones can improve your mood, lower your stress, and increase your sense of belonging, explains the Mayo Clinic.
How To Make Your Black Friday Even Healthier #1: Wear Comfortable Shoes
Of course, you do need to be smart about your Black Friday shopping in order to make it an even better experience.
First things first, wear comfortable shoes. Chances are, you'll be doing a lot of walking, so the last thing you want is your feet to start hurting before you're done shopping!
#2: Pack Healthy Snacks
If you're shopping early in the morning, you need to keep your energy levels up.
The best way to do this (other than grabbing a cup of joe on your way to the mall) is to pack yourself some healthy snacks.
Instead of hitting the food court when you get hungry, bring yourself some fruits and veggies from home.
#3: Bring A Water Bottle
In addition to getting hungry when you're shopping, you'll also get thirsty.
Don't grab a soda or lemonade from the mall. Instead, bring your own water bottle to keep yourself hydrated while you shop.
#4: Get Enough Sleep The Night Before
Another way to keep your energy levels up while shopping? Get enough sleep the night before.
After filling up on turkey and pie, it's easy to drift off to sleep, so don't force yourself to stay up too late.
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