8 Ways to Manage Stress During Your Next Move
It is no secret that moving can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. There are many things you can do to help keep stress in check and make the process go more smoothly. From packing your belongings to getting settled in your new place, here are 8 ways to make your next move stress-free:
1. Be the Man (Or Woman) With a Plan
Don’t let moving day sneak up on you. As soon as you set a moving date, you should begin devising a plan that maps out every part of your move. Not only will this save you lots of stress when moving day arrives, but it will also allow you to budget your time accordingly.
2. Take Some Time to De-Stress
Regardless of how long your moving to-do list is, it is important to set aside time to take care of yourself. Here are a few de-stressing techniques to try:
- Exercise. Whether you choose to run, play a group sport or do yoga, make sure you take some time to stay active during the moving process.
- Breathe. Studies have shown that deep breathing can reduce stress levels. From a relaxed position, try breathing in deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Repeat this several times a day as needed.
- Read. Reading a book can be a great way to take your mind off of an impending move.
3. Listen While You Work
Listening to music while packing can keep you entertained while also decreasing your stress levels. Studies have shown that listening to music can decrease stress hormones, reduce blood pressure and slow heart rates. When you find yourself stressing out about your move, play some upbeat music to help you through the process.
4. Pack What You Don’t Need First
As you begin to pack up your home, always start by packing non-essential items first. This should include any furniture, books or electronics that you will not need right before the move. A few days prior to moving, you will also need to pack a separate box containing everything you need right after the move. This might include things like shampoo, phone chargers, toiletries and a few changes of clothing.
5. Hire Movers to Help
During the moving process, you have so much to do that managing it all can get overwhelming at times. Hiring professional packers or movers to assist you with your move can take some of that weight off your shoulders.
6. Consider Hiring a Babysitter
Carrying heavy boxes with little ones running around can be stressful and dangerous. Consider hiring a sitter or enlisting the help of a family member or friend to monitor your child at a separate location on moving day. This allows you to focus entirely on your move.
7. Take Some Time Off
Unless you have nothing else to do on the weekends, it is highly recommended that you take time off work to move into your new home. This can eliminate the stress of unpacking after a long day at work.
8. Remember to Eat Healthy Foods
Eating the right foods has been proven to help reduce stress levels and stabilize blood sugar. Foods like turkey breast, leafy green vegetables and dark chocolate can help keep your body happy and healthy throughout the moving process.
Don’t let the moving process stress you out. Hiring professional movers to assist with your upcoming move is one of the best ways to keep your stress in check. Each mover is licensed and reliable so you can trust that your belongings are in good hands.