Without question, moving is one of the most stressful life events. Moving involves complex emotions — the excitement of beginning a new adventure, and, perhaps, some sadness at saying goodbye to your old life.
Moving also brings with it change, and change is stressful. Fortunately, you can find ways to relieve your pre-move stress.
Allow Plenty of Time
Start preparing for your move right away— as soon as you know you need to move. A major cause of moving stress is that people underestimate the amount of time required to pack and don’t start early enough. The sooner you start, the more time you’ll have to accomplish your tasks, and the less you’ll feel hurried and stressed.
Start Small
If you feel overwhelmed, then begin with the small tasks. For example, set a goal of packing just one box or decluttering one closet. Once you’ve finished, celebrate that accomplishment and then move on to the next small task. Pretty soon, you’ll notice that all those little tasks have added up to a big job.
Stay Organized
Keep all your essential paperwork in a safe place, and remember where that place is. If necessary, share this location with a friend you trust who can remind you if you forget.
Also, make a list of all the tasks to be done for your move and check them off as you complete them.
Create Sanctuary
As you are packing, leave out a few things until the last minute that will give you joy and comfort, such as meditation pillows or art supplies. Also, keep one area of your home as a sanctuary where you can practice relaxing activities such as meditation, yoga, painting, knitting, or some other hobby.
Exercise
Because you are so busy packing and making arrangements for the move, you may be tempted to put off exercise. Exercise, however, is a key to helping you manage stress. Find some time for physical activity every day. Even if it’s a walk around the block, getting out and recharging is essential.
Ask for Help
You don’t have to do everything yourself. Ask for the help you need to pack, declutter, or grab food on moving day. Just remember to pay back the favor by treating your helpers.
Or, opt to have your moving company do the packing if you have difficulty managing that part of the process.
Take a Night Off
Even though you seem overwhelmed with your task list, take a night off during the process. Spend time with your family, watch an old movie, play a card game, take a hot bath, have a massage, or engage in any activity that relaxes and refreshes you.
Sleep Well
Make sleep a priority during this time. You can’t function well if you’re running on short rest. Avoid too much caffeine or sugar during the day so that you can sleep at night. No matter how busy you are, go to bed at your regular time.
Leave Time for Goodbyes
Take time to say goodbye to friends, family, and favorite places, using whatever ritual works for you. A feeling of the closure of one phase of your life is essential to a successful transition to a new one.
Let Us Help
Are you planning your move? Let us help relieve your stress. Contact us for a free moving quote.