Episode Notes

Episode 3: Managing Anxiety, Mindset, and Emotional Recovery

Episode Summary: Recovery after open-heart surgery, aortic aneurysm repair, or a major health event isn’t only physical. Many people experience anxiety, emotional swings, and a mindset that feels unfamiliar — even when doctors say recovery is going well.

In this episode, I discuss the emotional aspects of recovery and explain why these feelings are common, normal, and not a sign that you’re failing. We explore how the nervous system responds after surgery, why emotional healing often lags behind physical healing, and how to support yourself with compassion rather than pressure.

In this episode, I discuss:

• Why anxiety and emotional swings often appear after heart surgery
• How emotional recovery differs from physical recovery
• Common signs of post-recovery anxiety and nervous system stress
• Gentle mindset shifts to reduce fear and self-blame
• Why emotional recovery is not linear
• Simple, non-overwhelming ways to support emotional well-being

Whether you’re early in recovery or further along, this episode offers reassurance, normalization, and steady guidance as you adjust to life after surgery.

Key Topics Covered:

• Post-surgical anxiety and nervous system response
• Emotional recovery after heart surgery
• Mindset reframing and self-compassion
• Understanding emotional ups and downs
• Gentle grounding and emotional awareness

Listener Takeaways:

• Anxiety after surgery is common and does not mean something is wrong
• Emotional recovery often takes longer than physical healing
• Emotional ups and downs are part of the healing process
• Progress doesn’t always look like “feeling better.”
• Gentle awareness and self-kindness support long-term recovery

Email Comments & Questions: arnitawrites1@gmail.com

Next Episode:

In Episode 4, we’ll talk about sleep after surgery — why rest is often disrupted during recovery and how to gently support better sleep without pressure or perfection.

Tags: Heart surgery recovery, post-surgical anxiety, emotional healing, recovery mindset, cardiac wellness, nervous system healing

Episode 2: The First Week After Open-Heart Surgery – What to Expect & How to Support Yourself

Episode Summary: If you’re preparing for heart surgery, in your first week of recovery, or caring for someone after cardiac surgery, this episode is for you. The early days can feel confusing, emotional, and unpredictable—even when everything is technically going well.

In this episode, I walk you through:

• What to expect when transitioning from the ICU to the step-down unit
• How your hospital stay is structured and what recovery milestones to watch for
• Education on incision care, activity restrictions, blood pressure management, and warning signs
• What doctors look for before discharging you safely
• Tips for monitoring your body at home and accepting help during recovery
• Gentle nutrition guidance for week one

Whether you’re a patient or a caregiver, this episode provides reassurance, guidance, and practical strategies to navigate the first stage of healing with confidence and self-compassion.

Key Topics Covered:

• ICU to Step-Down Recovery
• Average Hospital Stay & Recovery Timeline
• Discharge Readiness Criteria
• Monitoring Your Body Safely at Home
• Gentle, Nourishing Nutrition Tips
• Emotional Awareness and Reflection Questions

Listener Takeaways:

• The first week after surgery is about safety and gradual progress, not perfection
• Short walks, gentle activity, and breathing exercises are key to regaining strength
• Emotional swings are normal
• Accepting help and prioritizing rest are essential parts of recovery
• Simple, plant-forward meals and hydration support healing

Next Episode: In Episode 3, we’ll talk about anxiety and emotional recovery after open-heart surgery, exploring the aspects many people don’t expect but deeply experience.

Email Comments & Questions: arnitawrites1@gmail.com

Episode 1 Show Notes – Intro: From Recovery to Wellness

Title: Welcome to Your Recovery Journey Length: ~15–20 minutes

Welcome Message: Welcome to the very first episode of From Recovery to Wellness! I’m Arnita, and I created this podcast through Wellness By Words to support anyone navigating recovery after heart surgery, aortic aneurysm repair, or other major cardiac events.

In this episode, I share my personal journey, the purpose of the podcast, and what listeners can expect in future episodes. You’ll also hear about mini-segments like Food of the Week and Did You Know?, as well as occasional mentions of guided recovery journals and wellness trackers designed to support reflection, organization, and day-to-day recovery routines.

This is a calm, supportive space for reflection, learning, and encouragement — not medical advice.

What We’ll Discuss:

• Your recovery journey after heart surgery or major cardiac events
• Emotional well-being and post-surgery adjustment
• Sleep, safe movement, and plant-forward nutrition
• Mini-segment previews: Food of the Week and Did You Know?
• Optional recovery journals and wellness trackers

Reflection Question: I’d love to hear from you! Email me one challenge you’re currently facing in your recovery, or a topic you’d like covered in future episodes.

Practical Insights:

• Start small with gentle movement and journaling
• Try one plant-forward meal this week
• Observe your sleep patterns and note improvements

Helpful Tools & Resources:

• 🎧 Listen to the Podcast On: RSS.com
• 📄 Download Free Mini Tracker: [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd3qfavTGcpuhGqC7NjNb-xaB-9a2EnAT4ToOdRku_CqlRWnw/viewform?usp=header

💌 Connect / Share Your Story: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessbywords

• 🌿 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessbywords

Also listen on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Amazon Music
• Fountain.fm
• Castamatic
• Castro.fm