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Black Friday Shopping Secrets

We all know that feeling when you see something you want, and your heart starts racing. Your palms get sweaty, and you can feel your pulse in your neck. You reason with yourself for a few moments before giving in and buying it. And then, after you make the purchase, you feel an immediate sense of relief and happiness. This blog post will explore how shopping affects our bodies and underline some tips for successful #BlackFridayShopping.

Shopping influences your health
Shopping can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health. Buying items causes our body to produce hormones - adrenaline and cortisol, to raise heart rate and HRV levels. This can lead to feeling anxious and depressed afterward. In addition, shopping can also impact mental health by causing decision fatigue when we become so overwhelmed with choices that we start to feel mentally exhausted. In the future, it can lead to reduced productivity, decreased motivation, and even depression. 

Shopping Releases Stress 
When we are feeling stressed, discouraged, or just plain wrong, a little retail therapy can work wonders. There is scientific evidence to support the idea that shopping can relieve stress. One study found that participants who went shopping after a stressful event reported feeling less anxious and more favorable than those who didn't. Shopping lets us take our minds off our worries and focus on something positive.

Shopping Can Be Addictive
A little retail therapy can work wonders when feeling stressed, discouraged, or just plain wrong. Like any other addiction, compulsive spending disorder is characterized by cravings, preoccupation with the activity, and continued participation despite adverse consequences. Shoppers often feel out of control when shopping and may even spend money they don't have. If you think you have a problem with this, resources are available to help you get your life back on track.

Millions of people are already planning their shopping strategy for Black Friday, one of the year's busiest shopping days. But it's easy to get caught up in the frenzy of finding good deals and making impulse purchases that leave you with buyer's remorse and a lighter wallet. To avoid this trap:
  1. Be mindful of your spending.
  2. Make a budget before you go shopping, and stick to it.
  3. Only buy items you were planning to buy, and resist the temptation to buy them impulsively just because they're on sale.
  4. If you need more clarification on a purchase, wait a day or two before making the decision. This method will help you avoid making any rash decisions.
  5. Try to shop with cash instead of using a credit card to stay mindful of your spending and avoid going over budget.

In choosing the products and promotions, we recommend you stand for the ones that will benefit your and your loved ones' health. Here are ideas for this year's gifts:
  • Gym or class passes 
Exercising helps to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and manage weight. One excellent option is to buy class passes for a local yoga studio or gym. This way, your friend or family member can try different classes and find what they enjoy. Or, if they already have a favorite workout, you can get them a punch pass for 10 or 20 sessions.
  • A fitness tracker or smartwatch 
These can be excellent gifts for someone trying to get in shape or live a healthier lifestyle. These devices track steps taken and calories burned and can even monitor heart rate. Many different brands and models are available at various price points, so you can find one that fits your budget and your giftee's needs.
  • Reusable water bottle or coffee mug
If you have a friend or family member who is always on the go, a reusable water bottle or coffee mug can help them stay hydrated or caffeinated without resorting to single-use plastic cups. Many different styles are available now, from sleek stainless steel bottles to brightly colored tumblers with fun designs. Plus, many come with built-in filters, so your loved one can enjoy clean water no matter where they are.
  • Instant pot 
Why not give the gift of healthy cooking to the foodie in your life? The Instant Pot is a versatile appliance that can make all sorts of healthy meals. It is an ideal gift for the one who wants to eat healthier or explore new culinary horizons. With the Instant Pot, they can make quick and easy meals packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether whipping up a hearty stew for a cold winter night or preparing a light and refreshing rice dish for a summer lunch, the Instant Pot will help them create healthy meals that are sure to please. 
  • Yoga mat 
Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. It's also a great way to de-stress and relax. A yoga mat is an excellent gift if you know someone looking to start a yoga practice or improve their current practice. They come in various colors, sizes, and materials, so you can find one perfect for the person you're shopping for. And, unlike other fitness equipment, yoga mats are relatively inexpensive, so you don't have to break the bank to give the gift of yoga.  
The Heartify App Subscription is a great gift for someone who wants to be more proactive about their health. The app is designed to help monitor heart health and provides valuable insights that can help improve overall wellness. It measures your heart condition - HRV and heart rate, stress, tension, and energy levels and offers personalized tips. The subscription includes access to the app's exclusive content, including tips, articles, and videos with explanations. The Heartify App Subscription is an affordable way to give the gift of health this holiday season.
Remember, by following these tips, you can avoid becoming caught up in the Black Friday madness and make sure that your holiday shopping is both enjoyable and affordable.
Good luck!

​​Respectfully yours,
Heartify