Every time I find myself in a CVS, I can’t help but feel a sudden urge to use the restroom. I meander through the aisles, checking out shampoos and flipping through greeting cards, and then it hits me—this undeniable need to relieve myself. The staff at my local CVS must think I have an issue since I ask for the bathroom key without fail during every visit.
Initially, I thought this was just a quirky personal problem until a friend, Sarah, revealed that she experiences the same sensation every time she steps into Target. When she brought it up with other friends, many admitted to similar experiences. What’s happening here?
Intrigued, I turned to the internet and discovered that a surprising number of people report needing to poop whenever they enter a store. While Target appears to be the most common culprit, it seems that shopping, in general, can have a significant effect on our digestive systems.
I’m no scientist, but I decided to delve into this phenomenon through informal “research” by engaging my friends in a Facebook discussion. Astonishingly, many shared that they have developed a Pavlovian response to certain stores, where simply entering triggers an urgent call to nature.
Stores That Trigger the Urge
Let’s examine the types of stores that seem to provoke this response. Larger chain retailers like Target and CVS are frequently mentioned, but HomeGoods, Michael’s, Jo-Ann Fabrics, and Costco also rank high on the list of places that induce the urge to “unload.” Bookstores such as Barnes & Noble were similarly noted, and one friend even claimed that the book section at her local Goodwill always does it for her. Another mentioned that visiting the library is a surefire way to get things moving. It’s not surprising, given how many people enjoy reading while on the toilet; perhaps being surrounded by books acts as a catalyst for bowel movements.
Interestingly, some friends rely on these trusted “poop stores” to help with constipation. One even mentioned that she makes a point to browse around Marshalls when she feels backed up, insisting it works like a charm. Another expressed disappointment over the closure of Borders, which had been her preferred spot for a quick visit to the restroom.
Possible Explanations
The reasons behind this phenomenon are largely speculative. Some people attribute it to the store’s scent, which might stimulate their digestive system similar to how food aromas can trigger hunger. Others believe that the harsh fluorescent lights play a role, as they have been known to cause nausea and migraines, so why not affect bowel movements too?
Many friends shared that shopping can be an overwhelming experience, which may lead to a physical release—definitely an interesting angle, especially considering the established link between emotional states and digestive function. According to a publication from Harvard Medical School, our emotions can significantly influence our gastrointestinal health. Feelings like anger, anxiety, and excitement can all impact our digestive tract.
However, the emotions felt while entering these “poop stores” vary widely. While excitement is common, others report feelings of comfort, boredom, or even stress. This variance makes it difficult to pinpoint a singular cause behind the connection between shopping and the urge to relieve oneself.
A Shared Experience
Ultimately, it’s a phenomenon that many can relate to. One friend echoed my relief upon discovering that this is a widespread experience: “I’m just glad to know I’m not alone in this,” she said.
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In summary, the urge to use the restroom while shopping seems to be a shared experience among many individuals. Various factors, from store ambiance to emotional states, may contribute to this phenomenon, but the connections are complex and not entirely understood. Whatever the reason, it’s comforting to know that many of us share this quirky aspect of shopping.