Something strange is happening inside hardware stores around the world, prompting health experts to weigh in on the strange phenomenon.
Shoppers are reporting a sudden and unexplained urge to go to the toilet after walking into popular hardware store Bunnings.
While it’s not unusual for people to get a call to action without much warning, especially after a coffee or two in the morning, the immediate need to pack a suitcase while wandering the aisles of Bunnings is strangely set apart from the rest.
A Melbourne man recently took to social media to ask “why?” the Australian hardware chain proved to have a similar effect as the “strongest laxative” on his bowel movements.
While podcast host Froomes, who suffered a “painful” accident in 2023 as a result, said it happens every time she’s in the shop.
Her experience was shared by comedian Alright Hey who told her story and reassured her after he thought he was the only person it happened to.
What’s behind Bunnings’ emergency bathroom?
Sydney doctor, Dr. Zac Turner, said the curious phenomenon highlights the deep (and sometimes inconvenient) relationship between the brain and the gut.
“The enteric nervous system (ENS), often called the ‘second brain’, directs digestive processes and constantly talks to the brain via the vagus nerve,” he told news.com.au.
“This trick of the brain can lead to surprising results, including unexpected bowel movements triggered by sensory or psychological signals.”
Scientists have found in several studies that things like smells, exercise, stress and lighting can trigger the gut to have an immediate reaction – all of which can be triggered during a visit to Bunnings.
“Bunnings is a sensory playground: wood, compost, potting mixes and varnishes mingle with the unmistakable aroma of sausages buzzing outside. These smells can stimulate the vagus nerve, kicking digestion into gear and creating that all-too-familiar urgency, Dr Zac explained.
“It is also a place where new projects come to life, containing a maze of choices and decisions. Whether it’s excitement or low-level stress, the gut-brain connection can respond with an urgent ‘time out’ request.
“Wandering through hallways, bending over to pick up bags of mulch, or carrying heavy objects engages the abdominal muscles, which can stimulate the bowels, especially if your bowel is already primed.”
The strange toilet phenomenon when shopping
It’s not just happening at Bunnings, with social media commenters saying it’s also happened to them at Kmart, Chemist Warehouse and Spotlight.
“The same thing happens to me every time I go to Kmart,” wrote one on TikTok.
“This happens to my husband every time he goes to Bunnings,” someone else mused.
“OMG this happens to me with Kmart. I’m shocked, I honestly thought it was just me. Proof that I’m not weird,” added another.
The employees also joined the conversation, discovering that this happens to them too.
“At the beginning of every shift I feel the need,” said one.
“The staff feel this way too, it’s so real, I can’t really elaborate. There’s just something in the air,” agreed another.
In fact, it’s so common that it’s been given a name – the “Mariko Aoki phenomenon” – referring to cases that occur inside bookstores in Japan.
“It’s just another example of how complex our bodies are and what happens when they respond to the world around us,” said Dr Zac.
“Next time you’re wandering the aisles of Bunnings, armed with a trolley, a big bag of potting mix and even bigger plans, remember: you’re not alone and your gut has a mind of its own.”
Thankfully, the experience is relatively “harmless,” he added. But there are steps you can take to avoid “awkward moments” if you suffer.
Plan Ahead
Use the bathroom before going to Bunnings. It is the simplest solution.
Adjust your diet
Eating high-fiber foods and staying hydrated can keep digestion on an even keel. Avoid heavy meals or trigger foods (looking at you, coffee) before shopping.
Practice Mindfulness
Calm the gut-brain axis with deep breathing or relaxation exercises. Less stress means less urgency.
Stay active
Regular exercise promotes healthy digestion and reduces gut sensitivity—helpful if visits to the hardware store often stir things up.
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Image Source : nypost.com