man in checkered shirt sitting on a couch holding his back in pain while surrounded by moving boxes

Moving Safely – How to Avoid Injury by Taking Care of Yourself

Without question, moving can be one of the most physically demanding things the average person will go through. Therefore, getting injured or causing yourself some kind of harm during a move is always a risk. To keep your health in check and thwart your chances of injury during a move, keep these tips in mind.

1. Make sure you leave time for sleep.

Remember, the average adult needs between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. Although moving can disrupt your routine and have you staying up later or getting up earlier, your body still needs adequate levels of sleep. Lack of sleep can mean you face more risks of injury. Your attention span can be lacking, your alertness may not be where it should be, and your body and mind are genuinely tired. To make sure you don’t get so overwhelmed that you have to sacrifice sleep, plan your move well in advance, follow a schedule as much as possible, and ensure you have enough help.

2. Take in plenty of fluids.

Packing belongings, carrying boxes, cleaning, and all those moving activities can have you up and moving a lot more than usual. Keep in mind the active human body needs more hydration than a passive or less-active one. Drink plenty of water throughout the day as you work, especially if you are dealing with warmer temperatures during your move. Very Well Fit gives an excellent formula to calculate just how much water you should drink while physically active. Staying hydrated also helps keep your body operate at an optimal temperature, and your musculoskeletal system lubricated and limber to lower risks of strains and injuries.

3. Watch what you eat.

Food intake may change during the move, but do what you can to eat healthy foods to give you sustainable energy and support your body. Opt for high-protein snacks for energy and don’t negate the importance of healthy carbohydrates. Create a meal plan in advance and even do a bit of meal prep, so you always have a healthy option to reach for while you work.

4. Take breaks when you feel tired.

A tired body is more at risk of falling, pulling a muscle, or getting hurt. When you feel like you’re exhausted, take a time-out to rest and rejuvenate. Sometimes, just a quick 15-minute sit-down can give your overworked muscles a break.

5. Know your limitations.

A house can be full of heavy furniture pieces, some of which you will likely not be able to lift and carry without help. Back injuries are some of the most significant risks during a move due to improper lifting techniques and people trying to lift more than they can handle. Invest in equipment that helps maneuver heavy objects safely. Use things like dollies and wheel carts. Also, get help with things that you know are simply too much. Enlist the help of professional movers who will handle all the heavy lifting on your behalf.

Enjoy a Safer Transition with Professional Movers

Because so many risks can come with moving all your belongings, enlisting some help is a wise choice. Reach out to residential movers in your area to get an upfront price quote and make sure you have all the help you need.