My family has relocated a few times over the years, and now we’re in the midst of doing it again. Even though each of these moves was beneficial for us in many ways, they also brought a fair amount of stress. While stress can be a good thing, too much of it for too long can start to cause problems—anxiety, sleep deprivation, etc., etc.
So what can you do to move through a big move with a bit more ease?
Exercise is a proven stress reliever, so in times like this it’s important to make it a priority. It’s easy to put exercise on the backburner because there are too many other things on your to do list. But if you take the time for it, you’ll find it easier to complete all of those other tasks with an even frame of mind. The key is to pick an exercise you enjoy and just do it.
Another great way to keep things in check is meditation. It can calm your thoughts, shift your focus, and/or help you drift off to sleep. Whether you simply pay attention to your breathing for a few minutes during the day or listen to some guided meditation as you lay down for some shuteye, meditation is an effective way to relax your entire nervous system.
If you have kids, they’ll feel some level of anxiousness about moving—guaranteed. Sure, they don’t have to worry about things like canceling the garbage service, but moving can shake up their world too. Have a conversation to find out what your children need to know in order to feel more comfortable about the move. Can you take them on a tour of their new school? Do they simply need a drive around your new town to see other kids playing? Can they do a little online research about programs that are available to them, like a basketball camp, so you can get them signed up to participate? Taking the time to ease everyone’s mind a little can make all the difference.
Don’t forget your pets. They feel the stress of moving too. Tracie Hoffman’s blog post “Overstressed Pets” is a great reminder that our pets need some special consideration during big transitions like a move as well.
No matter what, expect an adjustment period when you move to a completely new area. But if you stay aware of what everyone is experiencing and take steps to ease their apprehension as much as possible, you’ll arrive at your new destination feeling confident.
What are your strategies to ease relocating your family?
Paula Widish, author of Trophia: Simple Steps to Everyday Self-Health, is a freelance writer and self-healther. She loves nothing more than sharing tidbits of information she discovers with others. (Actually, she loves her family more than that—and probably bacon too.) Paula has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Public Relations and is a Certified Professional Life Coach through International Coach Academy.
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I’m sorry you are leaving Colorado, Paula! I’m sure you have a wonderful new path. I’m happy for you, and I hope your family’s move contains as little stress as possible. :)
Thank you, Sam!! So far, so good. :) I have appreciated your friendship over the years and look forward to it continuing in the cyberworld. ;) Hugs to You!
Me, too! Hugs, Paula!