Moving can be a taxing transition. Not only are you responsible for the safe packing, transportation, and unpacking off all your belongings – you also have to psychologically and spiritually say goodbye to your previous home or business location. Moving is best accomplished with a deep pool of stamina – the physical endurance of it requires it. This stamina, isn’t only best served by lifting boxes, but by making sure that you are mindfully grounded throughout the entire moving process. In this blog, I’ll provide some personal tips to help you ensure that your move will be as calm and zen as possible.
Lists and Labels
The most important step you can take to ensure a stress-free move is to prepare in advance for the logistics of the packing process. Make an organized list of the various items/furniture that you will be bringing with you – organized by room. By packing your items room by room, you will make sure you are as efficient with unpacking as possible – simply bring the box labelled “kitchen” into the kitchen, and unpack as you go. Transparent boxes are very handy as well in terms of being aware of what exactly you’re packing, so you know the best order to pack according to the first items you’ll want to unpack.
Stock up on Supplies
Sit down and make a list of all the supplies you’ll need prior to moving. Make sure you have enough boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape well in advance. You can never have enough boxes, and if there’s any left over, you can always donate them to someone else who’s moving.
Comfort and Self-Care
Make the most of the repetitive motions of packing and moving, and pamper yourself. Put on some great music or a favorite movie; light some candles, or enjoy a glass of wine. Remember to drink lots of water, and be comfortable with the idea of taking breaks. If you’re trying to undertake the entire project at once, make sure that you have rewards to give yourself at certain checkpoints to make the work go more quickly. This could be anything from getting a massage, eating a favorite food, or taking a bath.
Create Scrapbooks or a Memory Box
When you’re sorting through all your old items, deciding what to keep and discard, remember that the decision doesn’t have to be too difficult. By setting aside a contained book or box for objects that evoke special memories, you can help honor the emotional process of moving while keeping the process organized.
Make it a Moving Party
Why pack all by yourself? Get some chips, some guacamole, or some drinks and invite friends and family over to assist you. You can enjoy conversation and company while getting work done – and the work will go much faster with the extra hands.
