3 Healthy Ways to Lower Your Stress Levels During a Move

As a BetterHelp
affiliate, we receive compensation from BetterHelp if
you purchase products or services through the links
provided

A move is stressful, no matter how you slice it. Whether going cross-country or just down the block, packing up an entire life can be daunting. There are so many aspects to consider that it feels overwhelming, even daily. It can create a lot of stress and anxiety with little to no relief.

But you don’t have to move under these circumstances. There are many ways that you can lower your stress levels before, during, or after a move. Doing so will make the process much easier and less stressful for you and, most importantly, your family.

1. Set a Deadline

One of the best ways to reduce stress levels during this process is to set a deadline for yourself. It gives you something to look forward to and will motivate you to move faster. It can also make the moving process more fun, creating a sense of urgency.

At the same time, you mustn’t set unrealistic deadlines. Don’t decide on dates so far apart that they seem foreign. Instead, make sure that your deadlines are realistic but also true motivators. It’s also a good idea to put in place multiple deadlines, including one for your stuff and one for you. That way, if many things are left over, and it’s been a week since your property is packed up, you can come home to a clean, empty house.

2. Delegate

Because of the number of things that go into the moving process, it can be hard to see it through yourself. You may have offers from friends and family members who are willing to help you with certain aspects or to follow through on some last-minute details. While this is nice, it can also be overwhelming. Instead, consider using a trusted third party to help manage as much of the process as possible. It’s a lot easier for everyone involved and allows you to leave work and focus on your family instead of moving things around.

Think about what the third party would need to do so that you make sure that they are equipped to do so. Make them responsible for helping you pack up and organize things!

3. Exercise

Exercising is a great way to lower your stress levels, but sometimes it can be even more helpful. For many people, moving is one of those times. Even though exercise can be done at any time, finding the time and energy to work out during the day can often be challenging. Working out at night works well because you can set aside the time dedicated to moving and focus on other parts of your day.

When it comes to moving, stress and anxiety are inevitable. That’s not necessarily bad because it can motivate you to get things done and make you feel good about the result. But certain things can help reduce those levels, including setting deadlines and delegating responsibility. Lowering your stress levels can also eliminate the anxiety that comes with moving.