Moving

Moving in with a partner is a huge and exciting step in any relationship. It can also be nerve-wracking and leave you wondering if you are truly ready to leap this milestone with your loved one.

Many couples indeed face some difficulties after moving in together. Luckily, you can circumvent a lot of these potential problems by making sure you’re on the same page and keeping certain things in mind beforehand. Here’s how a therapist reveals seven things to remember before moving in with a partner.

1.    Needs and Expectations

You might think you know your partner inside-out, and perhaps you do! Even so, it’s always a good idea to have one’s needs and expectations listed out and openly discussed. To ensure that moving in remains a positive and pleasant experience, both you and your partner need to see this is a challenge that you have to work together to overcome!

With that in mind, here are a few key topics you might want to tackle first:

·         Discuss Expectations

Research confirms that close interpersonal relationships work best when both parties are forthcoming with their wants, needs, and desires. Sit down with your partner beforehand and have an open discussion about simple things like routines (both on a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule), whether you’d rather set the table instead of preparing dinner, and what you’re looking to get out of this living situation.

·         Set Boundaries

Even when both you and your partner get very close, living in close quarters together can put a strain on even positive relationships. As a result, it’s best to listen to the experts and take the time to set down some boundaries. These can range from more obvious ones like time priorities and how much quality time you both want or need, to more straightforward questions about who’s in charge of paying for the groceries and the bills. This talk shouldn’t be a one-time discussion either – experts suggest catching up with each other on these discussions on a daily or weekly basis, so you both will stay on the same page as much as possible.

·         Figure Out Your Intention

While moving in with your partner may seem like a natural and exciting evolution in your relationship, it’s crucial to pause still and consider why you’re taking this big step. Positive thinking aside, it’s possible that you or your partner may be doing this for reasons that are rooted in fear, rather than growth. And that needs to be something you both need to look into, to avoid problems in the future.

·         Intimacy

It’s only natural to expect intimacy from your partner when you move in together – both sexual and romantic. That said, it’s crucial to discuss intimacy needs, sexual expectations, and any potential discrepancies between you and your partner’s libido in advance. This chat is so you can make sure that both of you are on the same page when it comes to intimacy needs and expectations before moving in together.

·         Determine Your End Goal

Moving in together is a significant upgrade in anyone’s relationship, but this relationship upgrade shouldn’t be an end goal in and of itself. There should be plenty of other long-term goals that you both might have or ought to discuss after achieving this exciting goal, says Widener University Human Sexuality Program assistant professor Dr. Sabitha Pillai-Friedman. For example, you would both need to decide if you would like to simply just wait and see how your relationship develops, or commit to each other permanently, or even get married!

2.    Financial Concerns

The most natural assumption would be that money is a frequent source of conflict between partners living together. A study, however, has proven that this isn’t the case. Don’t start celebrating just yet, though: the same study also showed that money problems also last longer and are often harder to resolve. This outcome is usually because both of you might disagree on just how much money should be put into those saving accounts – or if that goal is worth saving for at all.

Additionally, it bears keeping in mind that you will both have to decide who’s financially in charge of which bills as well – especially if you’re bringing along extra expenses in the form of pets and the like. As such, author, TV host, and relationship expert Andrea Syrtash recommends discussing financial issues before moving in together. Who’s paying for what? How much do you earn? Lay it all on the table!

3.    Quirks and Habits

Things that may seem adorable or cute to either of you may quickly turn into a nuisance once you find yourself dealing with it 24/7. It’s best first to discuss such things and to also reveal to each other if there’s anything else the other doesn’t know about you. After all, neither of you will be able to hide it from each other while living together!

Additionally, both of you ought to hammer out and discuss who should do which chores, and how frequently. This planning can prevent fights over household cleanliness levels, resentment towards one another, and awkward situations where some aspect of the household gets neglected – to everyone’s depriment.

4.    It Won’t Be Easy, But You’re In This Together

Frankly speaking, living together is not easy to do. So you should come to expect that things are going to go south sometimes. Even so, both you and your partner should consider each other a team trying to overcome challenges – not enemies. So with that in mind:

·         Prepare To Get On Each Other’s Nerves

When living together in the same space, it’s only inevitable that you will get irritated by your partner more often than usual. It’ll likely be in the form of little habits and quirks that annoys either of you and only when you both start living together – like leaving empty cups in the sink for days or your partner’s penchant for smelly foods. Be prepared for this to happen, and don’t let it bring you too much anxiety, says Relationship Expert Justin Lavelle.

·         Prepare For The Ugly

The most intimate method to get to know someone, warts, and all truly, is to live with them. This experience is how you’ll find out if they are neat freaks that drive you crazy, or if they’re the type to live in a pigsty without a care in the world! Both of you should hammer out as much of this as possible in advance, but you’re still going to have to mentally prepare that things can get bad or ugly as well – and you’ll have to continue living with them anyway.

·         Communicate More Than Ever

Once you start living together full time, excellent communication becomes crucial. Research proves that specific communication skills – like the ability to express emotions openly and maturely – are incredibly important if you want to be able to live together happily. This habit is especially so since there is now no room for either of you to escape to, should tempers flare and people get hurt.

5.    Chores and Responsibilities

There will continuously be things that have to be done. Either the floors must be swept, or the bathrooms scrubbed, or the garbage is taken out. Whatever it is, both you and your partner will have to figure out how to divvy up the chore list.

Ideally, you’ll want to:

• Discuss the frequency of certain chores and responsibilities, and if there are certain chores either of you prefers or hates
• Ask each other what household tasks needed and what rooms you’ll want to manage.
• Create a schedule with individual responsibilities for both of you

Bear in mind that all this needn’t be set in stone if either changes your mind. Both of you need to figure out how to get the chores sorted and completed without either one of you feeling like the division of labor is uneven.

6.    There Will Be Changes

It’s naive to assume that the relationship both of you share will remain static and unchanging after such a huge, life-changing event – or even over time.

While neither of you will suddenly become different people overnight, it’s important to remember that with time comes a change in goals and aspirations. It may affect one’s disposition and behavior, and that is something that might cause clashes between both of you.

Additionally, once you move in together, both of you are going to have to contend with lifestyle adjustments, says relationship specialist J. Hope Suis. This adjustment phase is normal and expected whenever you move in with anyone. Thus, it’s a good idea to discuss things with them first.

7.    Break-Up Plans

Nobody wants to think about this, especially if you haven’t moved in yet. But it’s essential to think about how you and your partner are going to be able to pull out if living together doesn’t work.

For example, some things you’ll have to keep in mind are:

·         Finances

Melding finances together is much easier than trying to separate it later. If you share a joint account, how do you both split the money? What happens to the bills and fees?

·         Assets

Once you and your partner stop living together, you naturally will no longer be sharing belongings and assets. It’s essential to keep in mind that you will both have to figure out and decide who gets possession of what item(s) – which will only get exponentially more difficult after living together for long periods.

·         Logistics

If living together is no longer a viable solution, both of you will still need someplace to live in. Additionally, both of you will have to figure out how to move your respective belongings out later too.

It’s natural to cling on to positive thinking and hope that this is a situation that both you and your partner won’t have ever to worry about or think about. But it’s always a good idea to plan for this possibility, to make things smoother and easier should the unthinkable happen. According to relationship expert and podcast host Damona Hoffman, this can make for a more amicable split.

Final Thoughts On Some Things To Remember Before Moving In With Partner

It’s equally thrilling and frightening to move in with a partner. Making sure, first, you are on the same page and remembering certain things before the big step forward can help make the transition smoother.

Keep Moving: 5 Mobility Exercises to Keep You Pain-Free

Mobility issues plague nearly 19 million Americans, both young and old. Mobility is defined as the ability to have full use of your muscles and joints. If you can improve your mobility, you can improve your flexibility, fitness, reduce pain, and reduce the likelihood of injuries. 

If you are suffering from mobility issues, doing some mobility exercises can help you regain the full use of your muscles and joints. Here are 5 different exercises to try to help improve your ability to move. 

1. Inchworms

Inchworms work your hamstrings, hips, and calves. To do them, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Reach your hands towards the floor and keep your knees straight.

Then, walk your hands forward until you get into full plank position and then walk your hands back towards your toes. Keep your knees straight as you walk your hands back. Once your hands get back to your toes, stand straight up. 

Try to do three rounds of 10 reps each. If your fitness level is low, start with 5 reps and work your way up. 

2. Band Pull-Overs

Band pull-overs work your upper body, including your shoulders, scapula, spine, ribs, and your hips. You will need an exercise band to do these. 

Lay flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Keep your shoulders, hips, back, and feet flat on the floor during the movement. Pull the band from overhead to your hips and then pause. Then, bring your arms back over your head. Make sure it is a fluid motion. 

Try to do three rounds of 12 to 15 reps each. 

3. Shoulder Pass-Through

A should pass-through works your deltoids, chest, upper back, and rotator cuffs. You’ll need a broomstick or PVC pipe to do this exercise.

Stand shoulder-width apart holding your broomstick or pipe parallel to the floor, using an overhand grip (your fingers should face away from you). Keep your arms straight and raise your object above your head. Keep your core stable and bring the object as far behind your head as possible and hold for a few seconds. 

Repeat this exercise for three rounds of five reps each.

4. Neck Circles 

Neck pain can put a severe cramp in your daily activities. Neck mobility can help reduce neck pain and neck circles can help with neck movement. 

To do neck circles, sit or stand with your hands on your lap. Tilt your neck to one side until you feel it stretch and then roll your head forward. Bring your chin to your chest and then roll your head to the other side until you feel a stretch on that side. 

Do five half circles, moving through each of them slowly and fluidly. 

5. Lunges With The World’s Greatest Stretch

Lunges help improve the mobility of your thoracic spine and your hips. To do them, take a lunge forward with one foot. Then, lean forward and put both of your hands on the ground.

Twist and reach up with the opposite arm, reaching for the sky. Take four deep breaths while in this position, and then return your hand to the ground and go back to a standing position. 

Repeat on the opposite side. Aim for five on each side.  

If stretching on your own doesn’t work, physical therapy can help improve mobility as well. 

Mobility Exercises to Improve Your Muscle and Joint Movement 

Mobility exercises are necessary to help you improve your muscle and joint movement, your strength, and your fitness. They can also help you avoid chronic pain in your joints. 

If this article was helpful, be sure to come back often for new content. 

Get Moving: How to Stay Healthy When Working a Sedentary Job

You’ve been feeling a bit sluggish and your body is always in pain. It could be because you have a sedentary job. These jobs pay better than your basic retail job but they can hurt your health. 

You need to be able to stretch and walk around regularly. Depending on how crazy your work schedule is, it may be hard for you to find the time. Rather you know it or not, it’s not too hard to work fitness around your daily life. 

To help you bring in the cash and stay healthy while you do it, here are a few ways to take care of yourself when you’re working a desk job.

Stretch at Your Desk 

Sometimes it’s hard to find time to leave your desk during the day and that’s fine. You can do stretches and exercises without ever leaving. 

If you’re not sure where to start with this you can find some great desk workout ideas online. 

Take the Stairs 

Most workplaces have both stairs and elevators. When you’re left up to choose, go with the stairs. It gives you more opportunity for walking. 

If stairs aren’t your friend then you can get the same kind of benefits from parking further away from your building. Basically, find as many opportunities to take steps throughout your day as you can. 

Have Weekly Fitness Sessions 

While you may not be able to fit in working out every day you can still get wellness benefits from scheduling a few. You don’t have to head to your local gym. You can go on a jog a couple of times a week. 

Some workplaces do have a gym on sight. If yours offers this service then make sure that you’re taking advantage of it. 

Get Up 

Even though you work at a desk you don’t have to keep yourself glued there. You can get up and walk around a little whenever you want. 

For example, say your boss asks you to take a conference call. You can take the call and then pace around as you listen and take notes on a pad. 

Schedule Your Meals 

Between staff meetings and projects you may not give yourself too much time for lunch and if you do take a lunch it’s quick unhealthy options. You need to give yourself time. 

Write down your lunchtime on your calendar every day. When you plan for it you’re less likely to rush to the nearest convenience store and grab a bag of chips and a soda. 

Staying Healthy When You’re Working a Sedentary Job 

Having a sedentary job isn’t a bad thing but there are some health concerns that come from them. You’ve got to schedule in time for fitness and a lunch that’s more substantial than the stuff you get from the work vending machine. Incorporate some of these steps into your day so you can stay in top form at your desk job. 

Did these wellness tips help you start feeling less fatigued and sore from your sedentary job? Check out our blog daily for more articles like this one. 

Moving Cross Country: The Top Tips You Need to Know for a Smooth Move

Over 40 million Americans move annually. While the reason for these moves is different, the amount of work and stress involved in this process is universal. If you are considering moving across the country, there are a few things you need to do to make this process easier and more manageable.

Trying to move cross country on a whim can create a lot of problems and undue stress. The key to successfully moving cross country is getting an early start on planning and packing.

The following are some of the things you should consider when trying to make a long distance move the right way.

Create a Plan and Stick to It

The first thing that needs to happen when figuring out a move is imminent is the creation of a plan. This plan needs to include everything from what needs to be packed to important dates surrounding the move.

Having a plan of attack will keep you on track and can help you avoid making mistakes. Instead of creating a plan and ignoring it, you need to follow it to the letter. Without structure, a long distance move will become one huge headache.

Writing down what needs to be done during the move and when you need to be out of your existing residence is crucial. Looking at this plan on a daily basis can help you figure out how much progress is being made towards your in goal.

Moving Cross Country Is Easier with the Help of Professionals

Most people lead very busy lives. Working a job and raising a family can take up a lot of your time, which is why trying to fit a move into your schedule can be difficult. Trying to take on the work involved in a long distance move alone is a bad idea.

Hiring seasoned professionals, like the ones at Ft Dearborn Relocation Movers is crucial. With this professional help, you can get your stuff packed and transported in a hurry.

A professional moving company will have the manpower and the equipment needed to get this job done. The money paid to a moving company will be worth it considering the results they can provide.

Detailed Box Labeling Is a Must

If you decide to handle the packing process on your own, then be careful about what is put into each of these boxes. Ideally, you want to pack one room at a time. By doing this, you can keep the packing process organized.

As you pack items, be sure to label the boxes in detail. Doing this will help you figure out where the boxes need to go once they arrive at the new house.

Take Time to Enjoy the Move

Some people get so wrapped up in the stress that comes with moving cross country that they forget to enjoy this experience. This is why you need to stop and smell the roses during this process.

Are you looking for more engaging and informative content? If so, be sure to check out the other blogs on our website.

Everything You Need to Know When Moving Abroad Alone

Thinking of moving abroad alone?

It’s exciting – and a little terrifying.

When it comes time to actually plan, it can seem like there’s a lack of useful information out there. The prospect of moving abroad can inspire all these feelings and a host of other questions and anxieties.

The idea of leaving your home to live in a foreign country by yourself is bound to provoke some stress. Luckily, you can deflate much of that stress having an idea of what the experience will hold in store.

If you’re in the planning stages of such a move, or still just considering it, these are some of the most important things to know about moving abroad alone. Read on for the best tips to make your move go smoothly.

Embrace the Fear and Get Through It

When you leave your homeland, you are leaving your comfort zone.

This is intimidating, especially once you’ve arrived and are trying to settle into your new home.

A common instinct in these situations is to live like a hermit for a while, giving yourself time to get adjusted. It’s going to take time to adapt no matter what. But, the sooner you face your fears and embrace your new home, the easier it’ll be in the long run.

There’s no way around the need for social interaction. Isolating yourself can have wide-ranging consequences, especially when living abroad. Don’t let the natural anxiety of being alone in a new place keep you from getting out there. It’s never too soon to start learning about the local culture and making new friends.

If you’re not sure where to begin making friends abroad, there are some simple things to keep in mind that are often effective – like staying friendly and relatively fearless.

You’ll thank yourself after you’ve settled in and developed a healthy social life in your new home.

That being the case, moving on your own to a new country with a new culture is going to take resilience. Some sadness and fear is going to be inevitable. This is all part of adjusting, and it’s completely normal for anyone making such a huge change.

Tie Up Potential Loose Ends

With your sights focused on your future in a new land, excitement can take over. It’s easier than you might realize to leave your old life in the rear-view.

While a forward-looking attitude is admirable and necessary when moving abroad alone, making sure things are in order before you leave will help you feel less anxious and can prevent future issues you encounter from becoming larger problems.

Some of the most essential things you can do to tie up loose ends before your move:

• Make certain that your loved ones and close friends know your new address and how they can reach you.

• If you have any possessions that are not coming with you to your new home, putting your things in storage is usually the best way to go. Give yourself time to find a good facility at an affordable price. You don’t want to be scrambling just before you leave.

• Just as importantly, schedule some quality time with the people you care about. These memories will help you during the massive transition you’re about to undertake.

Be Prepared in Every Way

Besides ensuring everything social is taken care of at home, it’s vital that you take care of all the required legal, practical and medical issues before your move. This seems obvious, but it’s easy to miss a key element of preparing for a move.

It’s best to figure out the visa situation long before leaving. In some cases, this can determine if a move is even possible.

Remember that every country has different rules for foreigners coming to live and work within their borders. This is one of the first things to look into when you are considering moving alone abroad. Visa laws can also determine how long you can stay at your new job, and stay in your new country altogether.

Of course, you will need to update your insurance policies. Fortunately, finding life insurance for expats is much simpler than it sounds.

Medical issues are another common snag. If you have allergies, or are on any prescription medications, or if you have any other special medical needs these need to be taken into account during planning.

Prescription medication availability and medical coverage in general varies drastically between different countries, so these are things to research.

Depending on where you are moving, you may want to keep a bank account open and some money at home. You should also keep at least one credit card open in case of emergencies. Also, your credit score will take a hit if you cancel every one of your cards.

You can switch to a family member’s address for bank and credit card accounts.

Last but not least, check to see which vaccines you need before emigrating to your new home country, and if there are medical documents you’ll need to take with you.

Moving Abroad Alone is an Intimidating but Worthwhile Adventure

For just about everybody who makes the decision, moving abroad alone ends up being one of the largest and most consequential decisions of their life.

Assuming that you already have a job and a place to live lined up, taking these tips to heart will help make your new adventure everything it should be.

If you are still in the research phases, or you’re wondering where to begin, starting a travel blog is a great way to start down the road of living abroad independently. Also, check out our blog for ideas on finding work you can do anywhere, or growing your own business online.