Life after a Heart Attack or Heart Surgery | Mental, Emotional & Practical Heart Health Wellness

End-of-life planning doesn’t have to be scary. In this episode, Sallie Crawley gently guides you through how to plan your care, medical wishes, and farewell in a way that brings clarity, comfort, and peace for both you and your loved ones.

Through heartfelt personal stories, practical advice, and compassionate guidance, Sallie shows how even small decisions—from choosing music for a ceremony to writing a will can transform fear into reassurance, grief into meaningful remembrance, and uncertainty into calm.

Whether you’re caring for a loved one, reflecting on your own wishes, or just curious, this episode encourages you to live fully while preparing thoughtfully for the final chapter of life.

Resources: 

Get the FREE End of Life Peace Pack

✨ A Gentle End-of-Life Planning Guide
✨ A Practical Checklist
✨ A Joyful Life Experiences List

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

In this episode, I will explain what vasodilators are, the difference between short-acting and long-acting nitrates, and how to use GTN spray and tablets safely. Learn about common side effects, emergency tips, and practical advice for living confidently with angina.

Key Points Covered:

• How vasodilators work to improve blood flow and reduce heart workload
• Short-acting vs long-acting nitrates
• Step-by-step instructions for GTN tablets and spray
• What to do in an angina emergency
• Common side effects and how to manage them

Resources:

Get Your FREE Heart & Angina Symptom Word Bank and Journal. This journal and word bank is easy to use. Keeping track of your symptoms, the severity, frequency and any patterns can be really useful for yourself and your medical team. 

It helps build a picture over time and may highlight patterns that can help you and your medical team manage it more effectively. 

Important Information:

• Talk to your GP or cardiologist for personalised advice
• Keep emergency GTN spray or tablets with you
• Remember: if pain persists after 2 doses, call 999, 911 or Emergency Services

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Reclaiming Your Life Story: Why “A Heart Attack” or “The Heart Attack” Matters More Than “My Heart Attack”. 

The words we use to describe a health event can influence how we cope, heal, and view ourselves. In this episode, I explore why saying “a heart attack” or “the heart attack” instead of “my heart attack” can empower recovery, reduce fear, and help you reclaim your story. You’ll learn practical tips for shifting language, distancing yourself from illness labels, and building emotional resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Language shapes perception: using “a heart attack” or “the cardiac arrest” creates distance from the event.
• Linguistic distancing can lower anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
• Small shifts in self-talk and conversation with others can support emotional recovery.
• This principle applies to other conditions too, from migraines to cancer to depression.
• Reclaiming your narrative is an ongoing, intentional practice.

Resources & Links:

• PNAS study on linguistic distancing
• People-first language in healthcare
• Join my Heartie Support community

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

I will guide you through a relaxamation session that supports balanced living and moderation during the festive season. Using gentle relaxation, body awareness, and the affirmation “I trust myself to find balance and moderation”, this session helps people living with cardiac conditions enjoy celebrations with confidence and calm.

Not sure what a Relaxamation is?
You can find more information here: Episode 22 called Relaxamations Explained - The Big Calm & The Feel-Good Factor

Who It’s For:
Anyone recovering from heart disease, heart failure, cardiac arrest, heart attack, or surgery, who wants to enjoy life safely, mindfully, and joyfully.

Resource:
You are not alone in your recovery from a cardiac diagnosis. Come and make friends by joining my Heartie Support community on Facebook. 

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Today, I explore the hidden psychology behind why it can be so difficult to quit smoking after a cardiac event, especially when you’ve tried before. Discover how your brain’s limbic system tricks you into believing you can’t cope without nicotine, and how to rewire that inner dialogue using calm, compassionate, and evidence-based tools. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• The real reason your brain resists quitting - and it’s not lack of willpower
• How to spot the “limbic lies” that tell you you’ll die or lose yourself without nicotine
• Practical ways to respond to cravings with calm awareness
• The Allen Carr mindset shift from deprivation to freedom
• Why relapse isn’t failure — it’s feedback

Resources Mentioned:

• Blogs: Quitting Smoking After a Heart Event 
• Allen Carr’s Easy Way to Stop Smoking 
• Join the Smoking Hearts - Quitters Club
• Get your FREE Guide: How to Get Ready to Quit Smoking for the Last Time
• Hypnosis Recording: Quitting Cravings

Key Quote:
 
“Nicotine doesn’t relax you — it only ends the withdrawal it caused in the first place. True peace comes from freedom, not fear.”
 

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Intimacy, love, and sexual connection can feel complicated after a heart attack, cardiac arrest or surgery but they are a vital part of your recovery and emotional wellbeing. In this episode, Sallie Crawley walks you through the challenges, practical strategies, and gentle steps to help you reconnect with your partner and with yourself.

You’ll learn:

• Common sexual and intimacy challenges after heart surgery or a heart attack
• Why these challenges happen, from medications to emotional stress
• How to safely restart sexual activity with your doctor’s guidance
• Ways to feel close to your partner without sex
• Strategies to rebuild confidence, self-esteem, and body positivity

Whether you’re feeling anxious, physically changed, or just unsure where to start, this episode provides practical guidance, emotional support, and hope for a fulfilling intimate life post-heart event.

Resources 

1.  👉 Explore recommended lubes on Amazon
2.  👉 Browse recommended massage oils on Amazon
3. 💞 Get your FREE Dating Ideas Checklist

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding sexual activity and recovery after a heart event.

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Understanding your ejection fraction (EF) can feel confusing, especially after a heart attack, heart surgery, or when living with heart disease. In this episode  I break down EF in simple, relatable terms and explains why it matters for your heart health.

You’ll learn:

• What ejection fraction is and what the numbers mean
• Why EF matters for your energy, oxygen flow, and overall wellbeing
• How EF is measured and what to ask your doctor
• Practical steps to support your heart, including diet, exercise, and stress management
• A gentle, actionable “Heart-Pump Boost” activity to help you feel more connected to your heart and empowered in your recovery

Why Listen:

This episode is for anyone recovering from a heart event, living with heart disease, or supporting a loved one. It’s about understanding your heart’s current strength, learning simple tools to improve wellbeing, and moving from fear to freedom — step by step, beat by beat.

Actionable Takeaways

Try the Heart-Pump Boost, a short daily practice to connect with your heart, reduce stress, and build confidence in your recovery journey. Simple step-by-step instructions are included in the episode.

Resources: 

Take control of your heart health! After a heart attack or cardiac surgery, understanding the medical terminology is crucial. This FREE Heart Health Terminology Cheat Sheet empowers you to understand what your healthcare providers are saying. Imagine being able to confidently discuss your condition, ask the right questions, and actively participate in your treatment. 

Download your FREE cheat sheet and start feeling more empowered about your heart health journey.

Links:

• Learn more about EF: American Heart Association – Ejection Fraction
• EF explained: Cleveland Clinic – Ejection Fraction
• Join the conversation: Share your experience, questions, or reflections in the comments or contact me via My Heart & Mind Community.

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Discover how to boost your happiness and improve your heart health after a cardiac event. In this episode, I explain how stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline impact your recovery, and how “happy hormones” - dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins - can help you feel joyful, motivated, and connected. Learn practical tips for regulating these hormones and reclaiming your life after heart surgery or a heart attack.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding stress vs. happy hormones
• How cortisol and adrenaline affect your recovery
• Practical ways to increase dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins
•  Daily habits to support mental and heart health
• The importance of self-compassion and small, achievable goals

Resources Mentioned:

Get your FREE Hobbies & Activities Ideas. Life after a heart event can feel uncertain, but joy and purpose are vital parts of recovery. This list of hobby and activity ideas will help you gently reconnect with what makes you feel alive, boosting your mood, confidence, and heart health along the way.
👉 Download your free guide: “Hobbies & Activities for a Happier Heart”

Unlock Your Happy Brain: Quick Start Guide. Boost your mood, energy, and resilience naturally! Discover simple, heart-friendly ways to stimulate your happy brain hormones - dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins - and feel more joy, calm, and connection every day.
💌 Sign up and get your free: “Happy Hormones Quick Start” instantly

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Many people worry about whether alcohol is off-limits after a cardiac event. In this episode, I explore the effects of alcohol on the heart, the truth about moderation, and practical strategies to enjoy life safely. 

Learn:

• How alcohol affects heart health and medications
• What moderation really looks like
• Practical tips for reducing intake without feeling deprived
• Benefits of mindful drinking and reducing alcohol for heart recovery

Resources & References:

• NHS: Low-risk drinking guidelines
• Heart Foundation Australia: Alcohol and heart health
• Heart & Stroke Canada: Alcohol & cardiovascular health
• CDC USA: Alcohol and heart disease
• Health New Zealand: Alcohol guidelines

Get your FREE Hobbies & Activities Ideas Today

Life after a heart event can feel uncertain, but joy and purpose are vital parts of recovery. This list of hobby and activity ideas will help you gently reconnect with what makes you feel alive, boosting your mood, confidence, and heart health along the way. 

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here. 

Me, Myself, and I, today I tackle the myth that self-care is selfish and learn why it's actually an essential practice for our well-being after a heart attack or cardiac surgery. I use the powerful analogy of the airplane oxygen mask to understand why we must take care of ourselves first before we can effectively help others.
I also dive into the transformative power of mindset, sharing a personal journey from self-criticism to self-love. Learn how changing your thoughts can lead to lasting changes in your habits and overall happiness when living with heart disease.

Key Takeaways and Mindset Shifts:

• Self-care is not selfish: It's a fundamental practice to ensure your own health - mentally, physically, and emotionally so you can better support the people in your life.
• Embrace your imperfections: Learn to love the things you can't change about yourself. A simple affirmation like "I like myself, I like myself, I really, really love myself" can make a big difference.
• Find an activity you truly love: Ditch the pressure to do what others are doing. Discover a physical activity that motivates and inspires you, making it a sustainable part of your life.
• Stop "dieting": Shift your thinking from restrictive diets to making healthy, lifelong food choices. Focus on your habitual diet rather than temporary fixes.
• Everything in moderation, including moderation: Give yourself grace and permission to enjoy life's pleasures without guilt.

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here.