There’s something about shopping that seems to trigger my digestive system, especially when I’m at CVS. I’ll be casually browsing through shampoos and greeting cards, and suddenly, I feel the undeniable urge to use the restroom. The cashiers at my local CVS must think I have a chronic issue, considering I ask for the bathroom key every single time I stop by.
I assumed I was alone in this experience until a friend recently admitted that she feels the same way every time she visits Target. When she brought it up with our group, several others chimed in with their own similar anecdotes. What’s going on here?
A quick search on Google revealed a whole community of individuals who seem to have the same bathroom urgency when they enter stores. While Target is frequently mentioned as a top contender, it appears that shopping in general has a significant impact on many people’s digestive systems.
I’m no expert, but I took a little time to investigate this curious phenomenon. I carried out some informal research via Facebook, asking friends about their experiences. To my surprise, many of them revealed a sort of Pavlovian response to specific stores, where simply stepping inside seemed to trigger a call of nature.
Which Stores Are Known for This?
Larger chain retailers seem to do the trick for most. Besides CVS and Target, places like HomeGoods, Michael’s, Jo-Ann Fabrics, and Costco were frequently mentioned as reliable spots for feeling the need to relieve oneself. Even bookstores like Barnes & Noble made the list, with one friend sharing that the book section at Goodwill always sends her to the restroom. Another mentioned needing to go every time she visits her local library, which makes sense considering many of us enjoy reading while we’re on the toilet.
Interestingly, some of my friends intentionally seek out these “poop stores” to help them if they’re feeling backed up. One friend even makes a special trip to Marshalls just to get things moving. She swears that it works for her! Another friend expressed disappointment over the closure of Borders, which had been her favorite place to relieve herself.
Why Does This Happen?
As for why this happens, there are various theories floating around (none scientifically verified, of course). Some believe that the scent of the store stimulates their digestive system, much like how the aroma of food can trigger hunger. Others speculate that the harsh fluorescent lighting might be a factor; I can relate to this, as fluorescent lights have made me feel nauseous in the past, so why not affect my bathroom habits too?
A number of friends also suggested that the excitement of shopping overwhelms them in a good way, helping to release what they jokingly refer to as the “chocolate hostage.” Research about the brain-gut connection supports this idea, as emotions can have a profound effect on our digestive health. According to an article from HEALTHbeat, a publication from Harvard Medical School, emotions like anger, anxiety, and happiness can all trigger symptoms in the gut.
It’s fascinating to note that the emotions experienced when entering these favorite stores can vary widely among my friends. While excitement ranks high, others say certain stores make them feel relaxed, bored, comforted, or even stressed. This variability makes it tricky to pinpoint exactly what triggers the urge to “go” when shopping.
Whatever the reason, this phenomenon is undeniably real. One of my friends expressed relief in discovering that she wasn’t the only one dealing with this quirky issue: “I’m just thrilled to know this is a common thing. I thought it was just me.”
I felt the same way; it’s comforting to know that I’m not the only one who feels the urge to “release the Kraken” every time I wander the aisles at CVS.
Further Reading
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Summary
Many people experience an urgent need to use the restroom while shopping, especially at popular chain stores. This phenomenon, often triggered by emotions or the shopping environment, is more common than one might think. Friends have shared their experiences, leading to a sense of community around this quirky issue.