Moving house can be a very challenging and demanding task. We tend to be creatures of habit and feel most at peace when we are in familiar surroundings, with all our prized possessions arranged just the way we like them.

So it can be very disorienting to find that we no longer have a favourite place to sit, the bed is facing in a different direction, and that cosy nook where we liked to read is no more. Sometimes the choice to move house is not made willingly.

We are forced to move because the landlord wants to sell the house, or because of illness or a change in family circumstances. These are the times when moving is usually most stressful and emotionally draining.

Moving house can also be a physically draining experience, as it requires a lot of active effort. It’s not surprising then, that moving house is often cited as one of the most stressful life experiences. The circumstances surrounding the move further dictate how stressful the event can be. 

Pay strong attention to your emotional needs at this time, as they are just as important as looking after yourself physically. Allowing plenty of time to pack and sort through possessions is very important. If you allow this time, then you can afford to rest if the task becomes too overwhelming, physically or emotionally. 

Being systematic can also help – say tackling one room at a time. Remember, of course, to leave essential items until last. Ensuring that you have an adequate supply of boxes, tape, a marking pen, newspapers (or butchers paper) and bubble wrap will avoid last minute panic.  

Remembering to label boxes properly is critical to making a move easier. Labels should include a good description for the contents, whose stuff is in the box, and where the box should go in the new house. If you also rank the boxes (from say 1-5) in order of priority for unpacking this could also be helpful. If you need to move in a hurry, hiring professional packers could be a good option. They tend to be much faster, as there is no emotional connection to the contents of the boxes.

Most people, no matter how focused, can easily get distracted reading old cards, flipping through books, reliving childhood memories. Once the physical move is over, you can then spend time getting used to your new surroundings, and making your house into a cosy home.