Reasons to Relocate: A Therapeutic Approach

Modern technology has made it easy to move from one area to another, and Americans are becoming increasingly mobile in all aspects of their lives. Sometimes, the decision to move is spurred by a personal tragedy, but there are many other valid reasons as well. Companies frequently provide opportunities for employees to transfer, and promotions within organizations are often contingent upon a relocation agreement.

Another reason for relocating relates to personal issues. People often desire the unfamiliar, so it is common for someone in a rural setting to move to a city. Individuals who live in large metropolitan areas may crave the simplicity and quietness of a small town. Job opportunities are the biggest driver of relocation to cities, but self-employment and remote work is also a growing trend. Workers may find the ideal balance between work and life by relocating to a desirable environment while contracting their services remotely to a large company far away.

Personal loss and bereavement also drive people to relocate. Familiar sights and sounds may exacerbate the pain of losing a loved one. Moving may help relieve the deep sense of grief and isolation. Sometimes, the distraction of a new environment reduces the intensity of the pain, but additional steps will increase the likelihood of recovery. For example, nutrition and pain-relieving therapies directly affect the internal feelings of pain. Developing these new skills are invaluable activities. A new exterior environment may reinforce the sense of recovering; however, one approach does not necessarily replace the other, and combining the two has the greatest therapeutic effect.

Therapeutic relocation helps individuals recover from:

•           Traumatic Events

•           Bereavement

•           Personal Loss

A growing body of work recognizes numerous therapeutic benefits to be gained from relocation therapy. Each individual responds differently to a given environment, so the therapeutic approach should always take preferences and personality into consideration. For example, people who experience a positive reaction to large bodies of water will benefit by relocating to an area near the ocean; however, others fear the water, and this solution would not have the same effect on them. The context and timing of the relocation is as important as the area itself. Moving too soon may prevent closure, which is a deeply personal event. Ultimately, the decision to move presents an opportunity to grow in new and profound ways. This journey often requires introspection and a deep awareness of the internal realms of consciousness.

This information was written by Ken Torrino, web relations for Elliman, brokers for New York City real estate.