by Julie Michael

Created on: December 04, 2007

The only way to survive and completely avoid the risk of the mall "mauling" that comes along with holiday shopping, is to avoid the mall like the plague during the holiday season! However, we all know that most won't follow this handy bit of advice, because, we human beings are absolute gluttons for punishment! We can't have a calm, sane, stress-free holiday season... Oh no! We absolutely must go to the mall and be stomped, trampled, cursed and otherwise abused. So, if you absolutely must go through with it and take the stompings, tramplings, cursings and abuse, there are a few ways to combat all of it, and maybe make things a little easier on yourself.

If at all possible, try to avoid peak shopping times! After work, during "rush-hour" or on weekends, is not a good time to go to the mall! I promise you, everyone and his brother, sister and great-grand-uncle will all be there during that time. If you absolutely can't work it out to where you can go during the morning or afternoon hours, try going a little later in the evening, not immediately after work. If it's the weekend, well, there's not going to be any time better than the other. I'll pray for your safety!

Dress comfortably. This is not the time to worry about fashion or "looking good". I promise you, other holiday shoppers aren't going to notice your designer slacks and shoes, and you'll only end up being uncomfortable! Dress neatly, and comfortably, and wear good supportive shoes! Walking through a mall is hard on your feet, legs and back... There's a reason why a lot of people use malls as indoor "walking tracks" to get in shape!

Avoid carrying in a large bag or purse if you can help it. Try to minimize what all you have to carry, so it doesn't get in your way, and you don't run the risk of getting your purse or bags "snatched" or hung on something. There's nothing more embarrassing than knocking over that little blue-haired lady over or knocking over an intricate display of "pretties" with a purse the size of a large shopping bag! A hip or fanny pack is an excellent option for mall shopping anytime, but especially during the holidays!

Make sure to eat a good meal before you start your shopping, and carry a bottle of water or a sports drink with you as well. The last thing you want is your blood sugar to get too low while you're trying to get your shopping done. It's outright dangerous to faint in the mall this time of the year! You might be turned into a human pancake! Also, eating before you go means

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