Home Sweet (New) Home: Navigating the Emotional Journey of Moving and Renovating

Aug 26

by Tebogo Mothoa, Carol Yan & Christi Gadd

This blog is the result of the renovations that our healing space Satori has been undergoing. Moving to a new home is generally desirable. Giving an existing home a makeover is also appealing. However, both can be inadvertently stressful! This realization triggered conversations between staff and clients, leading to a deeper understanding of why something so 'positive' can create stress and negative emotions.

People shared the following feelings about renovating or moving house:

"It feels like my life is on hold. I can't seem to settle on doing anything until the work is complete."
"The physical demands of moving, packing, and unpacking are the worst for me."
"I feel displaced, like a 'refugee'... belonging everywhere and nowhere at the same time."
"The reason for the move plays an important role for me. If there is an incentive like money or an upgrade, the stress is more bearable. However, if the move involves some loss, like of a relationship or finance, it can be overwhelming."
"For me, it is the chaos! Everything feels loud, even when there is no sound!"
"I don't like change; I find it stressful."

Why Moving or Renovating is Stressful

So, as you can see, moving or renovating a house can be taxing in many ways! Here are some reasons as to why:

Attachment to the Current Home: Many may feel emotionally attached to their current home due to the wonderful memories associated with it. Letting go of the familiar surroundings can be difficult.
Fear of the Unknown: The uncertainty involved in moving or renovating can be unsettling. Anxiety about the new environment and changes may arise.
Financial Stress: The expenses of moving or renovating can add to the emotional burden, leading to worries about affordability.
Disruption of Routine: The comfort of routine can be disrupted, causing unsettling feelings and anxiety. Adjusting to new commutes, schools, and social circles can be overwhelming.
Stressful Logistics: Dealing with packing, transporting, coordinating with contractors, and unexpected issues can be a logistical nightmare.

How to Lessen the Stress of Moving and Manage Related Anxiety

Recognise when the stress of moving is overwhelming, and when you may need some breathing space:

Behavioural Symptoms: Poor sleep, neglect of self-care, neglect of other important to-dos.
Emotional Symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or low in mood; lack of enjoyment even in joyful moments.
Physical Symptoms: Extreme fatigue, headaches, body aches, general unwellness, and exhaustion.
Cognitive or Mental Symptoms: Racing thoughts about the move, inability to relax, worries about 'what is next?'

What Can Help?

Acknowledge the Stress: Be honest and open about how stressful it is. Pretending it's not stressful or minimizing the impact is unhelpful.
Manage Expectations: Set realistic goals and timelines. Understand that something always goes wrong during house moves or renovations.
Communicate: Keep everyone involved in the process informed. Ask for emotional support from family and friends.
Take Care of Yourself: Eat healthily, exercise, get enough sleep, and take breaks when needed. Acknowledge and process your emotions.
Focus on the Positive: Concentrate on the new opportunities and experiences that await you. Celebrate small wins, like finding the right lighting fixture!

Remember, moving or renovating a house is stressful, but with a growth mindset and adequate support, you can navigate the process successfully and finally see the light at the end of your beautiful new home tunnel.