Trauma of moving house

As a mover, not a shaker, I have had an eye-opening experience over the past few weeks. Moving house is often seen as a milestone – a fresh start, a new beginning, or a step forward in life, I was told, but what happens after the dust settles and the final box is unpacked?

- SONJA BROWN

The lead-up to a move is often stressful: packing, planning and logistics. All true. But once I was in my new home, a surprising wave of various emotions surfaced – sometimes joy, but also grief, confusion and even regret. This phenomenon is common, I believe, especially if you've left behind familiar streets, friends, or memories.

I think it is because our homes often anchor our sense of self. The street we live on, the coffee shop we frequent, even the light through a certain window in the afternoon – these things subtly shape our identity.