Instead of feeling frazzled for days after your move, take some time to relax and enjoy this new chapter of life. Read on to discover nine fun ways to unwind after a move.
1. Treat Yourself to Take Out
Once you unload the moving van, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen cooking dinner. Make your first night a little easier and order in. If you have friends, family members, or colleagues in your new town, ask them which restaurants they prefer. Or, visit Yelp’s “Food” tab to browse different locations near your home.
Consider comfort food classics like fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, or spaghetti and meatballs. Or if you prefer something more adventurous, try the following:
- Chicken tikka masala
- Gyros
- Sushi
- Chiles rellenos
- Beef and broccoli
2. Take a Movie or Netflix Break
If you’ve spent most of the day unpacking, then use this tip to relax. Grab a warm blanket and some popcorn and watch a movie. Choose a film from your personal library or put on something in your Netflix queue.
Action flicks increase your adrenaline, whereas comedies help you laugh off any stress. Try any of the following movies:
- “50 First Dates”
- “Just Go With It”
- “The Avengers: Age of Ultron”
- “Inside Out”
- “(500) Days of Summer”
- “This Means War”
- “Step Up”
You can also take this time to catch up on the latest TV series including:
- “Arrow”
- “The Walking Dead”
- “Once Upon a Time”
3. Go on a Walk
Get acquainted with your new neighborhood and relax at the same time. Take 15 to 30 minutes and go on a walk around the main blocks near your house. And if you have a few extra minutes, feel free to introduce yourself to your neighbors along the way.
4. Take a Nap
Moves require a lot of energy and focus-especially since you have so many tasks to accomplish in a short period of time. To finish everything as soon as possible, you might even forego a few hours of sleep.
If you feel frazzled and exhausted, take a nap. Whether you sleep for 30 minutes or 3 hours, you’ll feel calmer and rejuvenated. If you don’t like to take naps in the afternoon, go to bed early instead.
5. Get a Massage
Massage therapists specialize in the art of relaxation. Check online for massage clinics near your home and schedule an appointment for certified respite. And since most massage therapists use soothing music, techniques, and oils, you’ll feel composed in no time.
6. Schedule a Mani-Pedi
Can’t find a massage clinic in your new town? Go for a manicure or pedicure instead. Manicurists and pedicurists offer hand and foot massages as part of their services, so you’ll loosen up any cramped fingers or toes.
7. Listen to Music
Whether you prefer to have a solo jam session or sing karaoke with friends, let music bring euphoria into your new living environment.
For some music-filled “me time,” listen to the following songs:
- “Caribbean Blue” by Enya
- “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5
- “Yellow” by Coldplay
- “Here You Me” by Jimmy Eat World
You can also listen to movie soundtracks such as:
- “Braveheart”
- “The Last of the Mohicans”
- “Master and Commander”
If you’d like to sing songs with your family or friends, visit YouTube’s Karaoke Channel.
8. Read a Book
Visit the local library and sign up for a library card. Once you’ve set up an account, check out a few books you like and take a few hours to read through them. You can choose the latest “How to” book or a sci-fi novel, depending on which genre you prefer.
Not sure which books to read? Goodreads provides dozens of lists of the best books from different genres.
9. Visit the Mall
Sometimes retail therapy is the best medicine for a stressful day of moving. Stop by the closest mall and explore the different stores inside. Buy a few new decorations for your home or a new outfit for your wardrobe. If you’d rather not spend any money right after your move, opt for window shopping instead. Make a list of items you’d like to buy and come back another time.
Don’t forget to read the rest of our blog for other helpful moving and packing tips.
