Moving home with meaning and intent can help smooth the transition from one beloved place to another potential adventure. It’s emotional when moving, and many people argue that it is one of the most stressful life experiences. But does it really have to be? You can explore various methods of helping ease the journey, so it actually becomes an enjoyable experience as you start a new chapter. From decluttering to self-care, here are some stress-busting examples.
Say Goodbye to the Old Place
Leaving a home can be an emotional time, which adds to the general stress of picking up sticks for most people. However, you can resolve your emotional pain and feelings of grief with a goodbye ritual to let your house go. Before the packers and movers arrive to take your stuff, take some time to reflect on the place. Some people find it helpful to walk through each room and remember the good times, and you could even write a thoughtful note for the new residents.
Declutter when Moving Home with Meaning
Around 60% of people find moving very stressful, and some even place it above divorce! This could be down to underestimating the size of the task or even how emotional it can be. However, you can relieve some of the pressure of moving by decluttering before setting off:
- Get some extra cash by selling items like electronics that don’t need to come with them.
- Donate anything that can be used by others, such as clothing and furniture.
- Consciously ask if something is worth bringing before packing it into boxes.
Pack the “First-Night” Box
Probably the hardest part of the moving experience will be the first night. This can be when it kicks in that you are not in the same place anymore, and insecurities can manifest based on the experience. However, you can make it a bit easier by bringing some essential, necessary and familiar things. For example, you will need convenience food, toiletries and something like a treasured blanket. The familiarity of home can help ease you in for a settled first night.
Create a Memory Capsule
It always helps to plan and unpack strategically, such as using labels and placing boxes in specific rooms, such as the kitchen, where they are supposed to go. However, this can be a chore, and any emotions you are feeling can make it harder. Some people find it helps to pack a memory capsule with sentimental items like photos and mementoes, and unpacking this box first. This can help establish a space as your new home and form an emotional connection.
Have a Gathering for Moving Home with Meaning
Around 64% of people find moving an emotional time, but you can relieve some of the pain with family and friends. There are a few ways to make moving easier, and having support around you is one of the most powerful, as friends and family can help to keep you in good spirits.
Organise a packing party
One of the most popular ways to make moving feel less emotional is to have a packing party. Invite your close friends and family to help pack boxes with music, a bit of booze and pizza!
Get the kids to help
Children actually really like to get involved in adult chores, and they can be a massive help when packing. As well as being funny, the kids can pack their own stuff, such as the toys.
The welcoming committee
Leaving is one thing, but arriving can also be emotional. A welcoming party can ease the transition into your new home and can make unpacking easier with some coffee and cake.
Meet the New Neighbours ASAP
Why wait to meet your new neighbours? A friendly early introduction can help you feel part of the place and welcome to be there. Most people wait until they are unpacked and settled to do this, but there can be a sense of belonging (which is vital for mental health) by greeting your neighbours as soon as you arrive. And you never know, they might even offer to help you unpack, which is a golden opportunity to get to know them and get off to a great social start.
Focus on Familiarity First
Arriving at an empty home can be jarring for some people, as it doesn’t quite feel like your space yet. But why wait? You will feel a sense of homeliness by immediately creating something familiar, such as a reading nook, bedroom space or hobby area. But it doesn’t end there either. You have more than one sense, and even something like familiar scents can add to the feeling of home for establishing a feeling of belonging and immediate comfort in your new house.
Moving Home with Meaning through Self-Care
According to recent surveys, up to 83% of people in the UK believe they don’t have enough time in the day. Moving is a logistical challenge, no doubt. But it will be much harder if you don’t also organise some time for self-care when transitioning, so consider these little tips along the way:
- Plan for taking breaks when packing and in transit, especially on a long trip.
- Accept that you are likely to feel emotions and think of the potential positives.
- Spend some time walking through the new neighbourhood to take it all in.
Document the Journey Between Homes
It’s natural to feel like something is ending when you move from one place to another, yet you don’t have to let it be the end. It can be therapeutic to document the journey from your old house to your new home. Perhaps you can start journaling and actually enjoy it as you write your memories, thoughts and feelings for looking back later on. Of course, you can immortalise these with photographs and videos that highlight the giant step you’re taking in your life.
Summary
A walk around to say goodbye to the old place can be a major emotional benefit when moving home, with meaning for an easier time. You can also take your mind off the job and the emotional attachment with a gathering for packing, and you may also wish to document it.