The emotional impact of moving

Moving to a new home often marks the beginning of a new chapter. It’s an exciting time, full of fresh possibilities—a new neighborhood, perhaps a larger space, or being closer to work or extended family. But for children, and sometimes even for adults, a move can be far more emotionally significant than parents might realize.

In this post, we’ll explore the emotional impact of moving, how it can affect children and teens, and why holistic body-mind techniques, such as Splankna, can help navigate the transition smoothly.

While parents are focused on logistics—packing boxes, signing paperwork, and adjusting to the new environment—children often silently process the emotional impact of leaving their familiar surroundings. For kids, a home isn’t just four walls; it’s a place where they feel safe and secure. Moving means saying goodbye to familiar routines, friendships, and even the sense of belonging they’ve developed over time.

Even if children don’t outwardly express distress, the emotional burden can present itself as feelings of uneasiness, trouble sleeping, irritability, or even physical symptoms like an upset stomach. Teens, in particular, may feel resistant to the move, as they’re often leaving behind deep social connections at a crucial time in their development.

A sudden or even planned move can trigger feelings of loss and grief in children, which they may not know how to process. Parents can sometimes underestimate the emotional and spiritual effects of relocating, as children often lack the words to express their emotions. This can lead to acting out, withdrawal, or difficulty adjusting to the new environment.

The change of scenery can also disrupt children’s sense of identity and stability. A home provides a sense of security, and when that environment changes, children may feel emotionally “displaced,” even if they don't say so directly. It’s important to recognize that a move can be more than just a physical transition—it can be an emotional and spiritual one, too.

Recognizing the Need for Processing Emotions

As Christian parents, we may see moving as part of God’s plan for our family, but that doesn’t mean the transition is easy for our kids. Children may internalize feelings which can have a lasting impact if not addressed.

If your child is struggling after a move, they may benefit from holistic healing practices like faith-based emotional release or Christian counseling. Emotional healing techniques like Splankna can be particularly effective in helping children release the emotions they carry but may not have the words to express.

What is Splankna and How Can it Help After a Move?

If you’re unfamiliar with Splankna, it’s a Biblically-based energy healing technique that combines prayer and mind-body work to address emotional and spiritual issues. As a Splankna practitioner in the Inland Empire, I’ve worked with many families who have experienced the emotional upheaval that comes with moving. Through Splankna, we can help your children release the stored emotions tied to the move, allowing them to adjust more easily and restore a sense of peace and stability.

Splankna focuses on clearing out the subconscious emotions that may be tied to the loss of familiarity or fear of the unknown. It provides a gentle, faith-based way for children (and adults) to process these transitions while keeping Christ at the center of the healing process.

Emotional Healing for Families in Transition

If your family is struggling with the emotional aftermath of a move, don’t hesitate to seek support. Whether through a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Christian counseling, prayer ministry, or Certified Splankna Practitioner, there are resources available to help you and your children find healing and peace.

At Encounter Coaching, we specialize in faith-based emotional techniques for families in transition. Whether you’re dealing with emotional displacement after a move, our holistic Christian approach can help your family feel grounded again. We serve families throughout the Inland Empire, including Riverside, Brea, Claremont, Chino and Ontario.