If there was ever a time you deserved pampering, it’s during or immediately after a relocation. To save your sanity and keep on track, spoil yourself a little bit during your move and you’ll find you’re mentally and physically better able to handle the work of moving.

Think of it as going through a breakup

Moving is one of the most stressful life changes. It’s been compared to going through a big break-up, stages of grief, or an overwhelming career change. Depending on the reason for your move, you’re sometimes hit with two or three big life changes that accompany your move.

If you’re looking for ways to pamper yourself during your move, look for ways to self-care during a break-up. The same soothing, calming influences are just as appreciated during a big move.

Pampering is not indulging

Your body is going through an adjustment. Your schedule is out of whack. Unless you normally stay up until 2 a.m. breaking down cardboard boxes, you’re going through a temporary change of sleep and meal patterns. That plus the additional stress you’re going through during your move are going to tax you physically.

Don’t think of pampering as indulging.  Don’t “treat yourself” to junk food and guilty pleasures. This is a time to treat your body to light, healthy foods.  Your moving care kit should include lots of fresh vegetables and fresh fruit, and a big pitcher of chilled lemon water. When the stress of moving and too much to do gets overwhelming, pamper yourself with something healthy.

Don’t forget your vitamins! The chaos of moving sometimes makes it hard to put our hands on our vitamins, supplements and medications. Keep them close! You’ll need them now more than ever. And don’t forget to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Schedule relaxation

With all that’s on your to-do list during a move, you’re not going to de-stress unless it’s an action item. So make it one! On your daily list of things to do, schedule in a 30-mnute rest on the couch reading a book, go see a movie, take a short walk, or whatever it is that gives you a mental recharge.

Take the time, don’t postpone it – even if you’re “on a roll” and want to keep working – and don’t feel guilty about it. Scheduled relaxation will make you more efficient at the other work you have to do.

Wait until you get to your new home

 There’s an advantage to postponing any big plans for pampering until you get to your new city. You’ll have a chance to test out new salons and spas in your new location. And during the thick of your move, you’ll have something to look forward to.

Ways to pamper yourself during a move

 There are so many ways to pamper yourself. Depending on your schedule, your finances, and how fast your move is progressing, you can take a weekend at a spa or take an hour to do a home facial and listen to music with your eyes closed – and everything in between. Here are some ideas:

Take time for a day spa – Check in mid-morning and spend the day getting a massage, take in a sauna, have a facial, manicure and pedicure done.  Don’t think of it as time away from all that you have to do. You deserve it!

Get adventurous at a hair salon – You’re changing addresses – why not change your look? A haircut and change in style can give you a much needed lift and new outlook.

Put together your own at-home spa – Unplug your computer, turn off the TV, and put your phone under a pillow. (Your relocation coordinator can go 12 hours without talking to you!) Take advantage of the many at-home spa treatments at your drug store: facial masks, hair and nail treatments, skin conditioners, and more. A DIY at-home spa won’t bust your budget and might be all you need.

Get a massage – If nothing else, try to fit in a massage during your move.  Moving is hard work, both mentally and physically, and a professional massage is beneficial to both.

Pamper all of your senses – Experts say that certain natural smells can increase oxygen flow to the brain, which in turn boosts energy, immune function, positive emotions and attitude.  Add essential oils and your favorite aromas to your pampering regime. As for sounds, put together a “moving playlist” of songs that raise your mood and energize you.

Take time for what you love – Your moving schedule is busy, but not so busy that you can’t take a few minutes every day to do something that you love. Whether it’s reading, baking, arts and crafts, or music, taking the time to unwind and enjoy yourself is one of the best ways to pamper yourself.

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Diane Laney Fitzpatrick is a writer, blogger and author of “Home Sweet Homes: How Bundt Cakes, Bubble Wrap, and My Accent Helped Me Survive Nine Moves.” She writes about moving and other adventures in coping at www.DianeLaneyFitzpatrick.com.