Xmas shopping online less stressful, claims survey

Christmas shopping on the high street can be as stressful as an interview with the taxman and as tiring as marching with an army, according to a report published today.

The comparisons emerged from a study looking at the different physical and mental effects of visiting stores or shopping on the internet.

Compared with those who shop from home, people who take on the crowds will more than double their heart rate, quadruple their blood pressure and see their anger level soar six times as high.

The study was conducted by physician Dr Aric Sigman on behalf of online retailer Amazon.co.uk – which has a vested interest in more people shopping on the internet this Christmas.