Mid-April, for most Americans, is defined as “Tax Season”. That stressful time of year we cherish with the same enthusiasm as our middle school yearbooks. But with Uncle Sam held at bay for another three hundred and sixty odd days (who’s counting?), there’s no better place to blow that tax return or self-medicate with some much needed retail therapy than the mall! And there is also no better place to alleviate stress than the mall! For years, senior citizens and extreme multitaskers have been ahead of the curve when it comes to mall walking. It is a simple yet, often overlooked alternative to walking or jogging on a treadmill at the gym!
Here’s the scoop: mall security opens the main entrances a few hours before the stores open and the public is invited to stroll the climate-controlled avenues for free. Sure you could fill the extra space on your to-do list with knitting or learning Korean, but neither of those activities will support your well being like walking. The health and financial benefits are bountiful! Escape the Florida heat and humidity by heading indoors for a few laps around your favorite shops.
Here are a few reasons to walk the mall that will have your doctor AND debt collector doing the happy dance:
7. Zero membership fee, start-up cost or embarrassing photo ID required!
6. Using the mall regularly for other activities besides shopping/snacking will decrease the super high of impulse purchases that later result in buyer’s remorse.
5. Avoid waiting for a machine at the gym, traffic is minimal!
4. No gawkers…unless the mannequins make you nervous of course.
3. Window browsing all of the cute clothes will motivate you back into those skinny jeans (especially while perusing the Victoria’s Secret window).
2. Be early for the early bird specials! Major savings before noon, who knew?
1. Kid zones make for excellent obstacle courses! Just be careful, anything fancy could send you head first into a fountain!
Alarm clock and strong desire to work out is a must! Headsets and hand weights are optional. Shopping list/pen and pad…unfortunately, not suggested.
Westfield of Brandon- Monday-Saturday 9 A.M., Sunday 10 A.M.
International Plaza- Daily at 7 A.M., lower level entrance next to Nordstrom
Westfield Citrus Park- Monday-Saturday 8A.M., Sunday 11 A.M.
West Shore Plaza- Monday-Saturday 8 A.M., Sunday 10 A.M.
University Mall- Monday–Saturday 6 A.M., Sunday 7 A.M.
Happy Walking!
