7 Tips For Moving With Lupus

Moving is no fun, but it is something that has to be done. No one enjoys it and it is difficult for everyone. But for those living with chronic pain and a chronic illness, it is a bit more tricky and requires more planning. We have to think ahead and plan every aspect of the move so we don’t set off a flare of our illness. That being said here are a few things that make moving a little easier for the chronically ill.

1. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and/or delegate tasks. It is no secret that many of us are pretty stubborn and strong-willed and hate to ask for help. But pushing through and doing everything yourself will benefit no one in the long end.
2. Before you move, as you pack make sure you label each box with a detailed list of what’s inside. It is always a pain when you know you packed something but can’t remember what box it is in. So as you are closing the box jot down a basic list on the box of what’s inside so you don’t have to search all the boxes to find what you’re looking for. If you are uncomfortable labeling the outside of the boxes with the contents label each box with a number. Then make a list on your phone, or somewhere you know you won’t lose it, with the box numbers and a list of what is inside.
3. Move slowly (if that’s an option for you) and pace yourself. If you aren’t under a time crunch it is better for your body to spread the move over a few days or even weeks if you can. It is best if you can take a load of your stuff over and put that stuff away. This will make your true move-in easier and less painful.
4. Don’t forget to change your mailing address. In the United States, this can be done online for a $1 charge. They allow you to pick the date you would like your mail to start coming to your address. If you don’t want to do it online it can be done in person.
5. If possible have your leases overlap. This will allow you and those helping to get the new place cleaned things put together in the new place before you actually move. It also allows you to have days to clean after you move out so you don’t overdo it trying to clean both places and move on the same day.
6. Don’t try and move and clean as you go.  This relates to number 1. If you need to clean your new place before/upon moving, or your old place upon exit. Try to do it a day you aren’t moving if you can. If that is not an option let others clean for you. Remember your health often relates to stress and overdoing it. So don’t try and do everything on your own.
7.  Try to pack one box of kitchen/bathroom/ personal necessities and have it moved/unpacked first. This ensures that you will have everything you will need to be comfortable the first night in your new place.

Moving is awful and no one enjoys it. But it’s something that has to be done from time to time. When you live with a chronic illness big tasks like moving have to be planned for. It isn’t something we can do at the last minute without risking a severe flare. Please try and remember your body in the process. Taking your time, planning ahead, and letting others help may help to prevent any flares caused by the stress of moving.