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

In today’s guided Relaxamation, I invite you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the truth that happiness is your right and not a reward or something you have to earn. Whether you’re recovering from a heart attack, adjusting to life with heart failure, or living with any form of heart disease, this is your time to remember: you can feel joy, peace, and calm—even in the midst of uncertainty.

You’ll be gently guided through a soothing body relaxation, followed by a powerful repetition of the affirmation:  “I have the right to be happy.”

This Relaxamation helps you:

• Reconnect with joy and gratitude
• Reduce anxiety and emotional overwhelm
• Build self-compassion during cardiac recovery
• Remember that your happiness matters—right now, as you are

You’ll come away feeling lighter, calmer, and more in touch with your inner strength and resilience.

After today’s session, you will:
✨ Have a calming ritual to ease emotional stress
✨ Be more confident in your right to feel good
✨ Do more of what brings you peace, joy, and energy

🎧 Press play, get comfortable, and begin your journey inward.

What is a Relaxamation? Find out more here The Big Calm & The Feel Good Factor

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, we're talking about A powerful tool to help you manage those overwhelming moments of worry, stress, and anxiety that can often accompany a cardiac event: creating your very own Self-Soothing Toolbox.

Sallie shares why this "emergency kit" for your emotions is so much more than just a coping mechanism – it's a proactive step towards improving your mental and physical health. She explains how to create your personalised box, from decorating your chosen container to filling it with items that ground your thoughts, trigger positive memories, and gently pull you back into the present moment.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why a Self-Soothing Toolbox is essential for anyone living with a health condition, especially heart disease.
• Practical steps for creating your own unique box, from choosing and decorating your container to filling it with items that bring you comfort and joy.
• A wealth of personalised ideas for what to include.
• The profound power of writing a letter to yourself from your future, wiser self.
• Tips for creating an "on-the-go" self-soothe kit for immediate comfort anywhere.
• Sallie's own "Feel Good File" and a powerful reminder of your strength and resilience.

This episode is your guide to nurturing your emotional well-being and finding peace, even in the face of uncertainty. Tune in and start building your personalised sanctuary today!

Resources

My Heart & Mind Website

My Heart & Mind Community on Facebook

Stay in touch with Sallie

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. 

What are the early months after a heart attack really like?" It's a question that brings back memories of my own uncertainty after leaving the hospital, stepping back into a life that suddenly felt unfamiliar. I just didn't have a clue what to expect!

In this episode, I'll explore what those first few days, weeks, and months can bring, both physically and emotionally, and share how you can navigate them with strength and hope.

Important Disclaimer: I'm not a medical professional. This episode shares my personal experience as a heart attack survivor and general information. 

I'll cover:

• The crucial importance of rest in the very first days back home, and why your Cardiac Recovery Guide is your roadmap for safe healing.
• Managing expectations for yourself and communicating openly with family and friends about your recovery journey.
• Monitoring your vitals and understanding common discomforts after a cardiac event.
• Navigating new medications and unexpected side effects like loss of appetite or changes in taste (like my sudden dislike for coffee!).
• Understanding the "cardiac blues" – those incredibly common feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, and fear – and why talking about them is so vital.
• A brief discussion on "pump head" for those recovering from heart surgery.
• My Actionable Tip for a Happier New Life: Embrace "Pacing" and "Planned Rest" to avoid the "boom and bust" cycle of fatigue. I'll share practical ways to break down tasks, schedule rest, listen to your body, and even keep a "Fatigue Diary."
• Gradually increasing activity in the first few weeks, including safe walking and why certain activities like driving and heavy lifting should be avoided initially.
• Important considerations for intimacy after a heart event, including when it's generally safe and what to avoid.
• Looking ahead to holidays and returning to work, and why planning and prioritising your well-being are key.
• A powerful reminder that you are a survivor, and why embracing your cardiac rehabilitation program is a vital step in your physical and emotional recovery.

Resources Mentioned:

I've written a book called The Beat Goes On to help in the early days of recovery. It includes several downloadable documents to support you on your journey. Get them for free at: www.myheartandmind.co.uk/bookTBGO

• Appointment Journal
• Appointment Notes
• Medication Chart
• Emotional Wellbeing Journal
• Guided Relaxation Audio
• Sleep Journal
• Pain Journal
• Angina Journal

Stay in touch with Sallie

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'm diving deep into a topic I touched on previously in episode 035, about "Can trauma and PTSD be caused by a heart attack, cardiac arrest, or open-heart surgery." This time, I want to share how even after a traumatic event, feeling good is not only possible but something you're absolutely allowed to do. I'm talking about moving From Trauma to Triumph: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) versus something truly transformative – Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG).

In this episode, I'll share:

• My personal perspective on the reality of post-traumatic stress after a heart event and why seeking help is crucial if these feelings persist.
• An introduction to the powerful concept of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) and how it's possible to move from survivorship to thrivership.
• Insights into how PTG can manifest in your life, leading to a deeper appreciation and personal strength.
• My Actionable Tip for a Happier New Life. I'll explain how to use this powerful tool to recognise your progress, shift your perspective, and reinforce positive neural pathways.
• The critical role of a strong support system in your recovery journey, whether it's family, friends, support groups, or charities.
• How approaches like Hypnotherapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Life Coaching can help you find your way to acceptance and positivity.

Resources

My Heart & Mind Website

My Heart & Mind Community on Facebook

Episode 34 Can trauma and PTSD be caused by a heart attack, cardiac arrest, or open-heart surgery.

Stay in touch with Sallie

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. 

Summer can bring unique challenges for those with cardiac conditions. This episode provides actionable advice on staying cool, hydrated, and recognising the signs of heat-related stress, all tailored to help you protect your heart. Sallie shares her expertise and personal insights, guiding you through crucial precautions and lifestyle adjustments that can make a significant difference during hot spells.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the risks of heat on cardiac health.
• Practical tips for staying cool and hydrated.
• Identifying and responding to heat-related symptoms.
• Adjusting your routine to minimise heat exposure.
• Empowering strategies for continued heart-healthy living, even in rising temperatures.

This episode is not intended as medical advice; it's about empowering you to live confidently and joyfully, knowing you have the tools to manage your heart health throughout all seasons. 

Join Sallie as she helps you feel less alone, more in control, and equipped to embrace life after a cardiac event, one step at a time.

Resources Mentioned:

• Join our supportive community: My Heart & Mind Community (Facebook Group)
• Learn more about Sallie Crawley and her work: Sallie Crawley's Website

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 challenge the notion that "you can't think yourself better" after a life-altering cardiac event. While it's crucial to acknowledge the trauma and negative emotions, we delve into the powerful connection between your mindset and your cardiac recovery.

We explore:

• The Nuance of Positive Thinking: It's not about being relentlessly positive, but understanding how your thoughts influence your feelings, actions, and behaviours.
• The Thought-Action Link: How a negative thought can derail your plans (like a rainy day stopping a walk) and how a shift in perspective can lead to positive actions.
• Changing Your Mindset Through Repetition: The simple yet powerful concept that consistently choosing a positive outlook can reshape your thinking, even in the face of trauma.

Practical Steps for a Positive Outlook: 

• Recognising Triggers: Identifying when negative thoughts arise 
• Reframing Thoughts: Actively choosing a positive interpretation (e.g., viewing an appointment as proactive care).
• Empowering Lifestyle Changes: Approaching diet and exercise with a positive mindset, seeing them as fuel and enjoyment, not deprivation or insurmountable tasks.
• Seeking Support: The importance of asking for help for habits like smoking cessation.

I offer encouragement and practical strategies for cultivating a positive mental attitude, empowering you to make sustainable lifestyle changes and reduce your cardiac risk factors.

Key Takeaways:

• Your mindset impacts your cardiac recovery and ability to make healthy lifestyle changes.
• It's okay to feel negative emotions, but don't let them dictate your actions.
• Changing your mindset is possible through consistent, positive reframing of thoughts.
• Small, positive choices (like reframing an appointment or starting a short walk) can lead to significant improvements.
• Positive mental attitude fuels positive actions, which in turn supports better heart health.

Resources Mentioned:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder vs Post-Traumatic Growth
• How to Help Yourself When Feeling Emotional After a Cardiac 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. 

Today I’ve been thinking about how much energy we spend trying to predict, control or prepare for every possible outcome in life… especially when we’re living with a health condition.

It’s completely natural, we want certainty because it feels safe. And when your body isn’t behaving predictably, or when your health is uncertain, it’s easy to feel like the ground beneath you is shifting. Even the smallest decisions can feel overwhelming. Will I feel well enough today? What will the test results say? How do I plan when I don’t know how I’ll feel?

The truth is… we all live with uncertainty. But when you’re managing a health challenge, that uncertainty often takes centre stage. And that can leave you feeling anxious, helpless, even disconnected from who you used to be.

That’s why this relaxamation is so powerful.

“I Cope with Uncertainty” is designed to help you gently reconnect with your inner strength. To soothe the nervous system. To remind your mind and body that peace is still possible, even in the unknown.

It’s not about ignoring reality. It’s about learning how to stay steady within it. This relaxamation won’t give you all the answers. But it will help you soften your grip on needing them.

Do not listen to this episode while driving or operating machinery. 

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. 

A cardiac event, whether a heart attack or surgery, doesn't just impact your physical health; it can dramatically affect your emotional well-being. In this episode, we explore the emotional roller coaster ride that often follows, akin to the stages of grief. 

We discuss:

• Grief Beyond Loss: How losing your "old life" after a cardiac event is a valid form of grief.
• The Change Curve: A model based on Elisabeth Kubler-Ross's stages of grief, adapted to the cardiac recovery journey.

We'll look at stages like: 

• Shock & Denial: The initial disbelief and feeling "it can't be that bad."
• Frustration & Depression: The anger, low mood, and profound sadness as the reality sets in.
• Experiment, Decision & Integration: Moving towards actively helping yourself, making positive life choices, and ultimately accepting your new self.

If you're struggling with the emotional aftermath of a cardiac event, this episode offers understanding, validation, and a path forward. 

Key Takeaways:

• Emotional recovery is a journey, often mirroring stages of grief.
• It's normal to feel shock, denial, frustration, or depression after a cardiac event.
• You can move towards acceptance and integration into your new life.
• You are not alone; connecting with others is crucial for support. 

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: Sallie's book (for more on this topic, search Amazon for Sallie's books).
• Facebook Group: My Heart & Mind Community (A supportive group for those with similar experiences).
• Email Support: [email protected] (For further help or questions).
• The Emotional Roller Coaster Ride after a Heart Attack or Heart Surgery (Image of the Grief Model)

If this episode resonated with you, please share it. 

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. 

Join me for an exciting announcement! My Facebook page, formerly known as "Heart Attack, Heart Surgery & Heart Disease Survivors Support Group," is officially rebranding to Healthy Hearts & Happy Minds! 🎉 

This new name truly reflects my mission: to support and empower individuals living with or recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery or cardiac diagnosis on their journey to a healthier and happier life.

In this episode, I'll explore what this rebrand means for our community and introduce my three dedicated Facebook groups designed to offer even more tailored support:

• My Heart & Mind: Our main supportive community for connection and shared experiences.
• Smoking Hearts: A judgment-free zone for those quitting smoking after a cardiac event.
• Hearts Together: Dating for Singles with Health Challenges: A space for individuals with chronic health conditions to connect and build friendships.

You are not alone on this journey. We're here to help you move from survivor to thrive!

Key Takeaways:

• This rebrand emphasises a holistic approach to recovery, focusing on physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
• Discover three new dedicated Facebook groups for specialised support.
• Remember: You are loved, admired, and worthy of joy and happiness!

Important Links Mentioned in this Episode:

• Healthy Hearts & Happy Minds (Main Facebook Page)
• My Heart & Mind (Main Support Group)
• Smoking Hearts (Quitting Smoking Support Group)
• Hearts Together: Dating for Singles with Health Challenges (Connection Group)

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 confront the reality of trauma and PTSD following cardiac events like heart attacks, cardiac arrest, or open-heart surgery. It's a question many ask, and the answer is a definitive yes. I discuss:

• The Reality of Trauma: How life-changing cardiac events can make your own body feel unsafe, and why these feelings are normal.
• What is PTSD? Understanding symptoms like re-living events, heightened anxiety (hyperarousal), rage, guilt, vivid nightmares, and avoidance behaviours.
• Recognising Triggers: How your brain's protective mechanisms can lead to anxiety around hospitals, medications, or even physical sensations.
• The Impact on Recovery: How untreated trauma and PTSD can hinder your physical recovery and increase health risks like inflammation and blood pressure.
• Taking the First Steps: The importance of recognising symptoms and speaking openly with your primary doctor.
• Treatment Options: Exploring "watchful waiting," Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to manage triggers and coping mechanisms, and the role of medication.
• Self-Help Strategies: Practical tips including exercise, social support, and general self-care.

You are not alone; research suggests a significant number of cardiac patients experience PTSD. It's real, it's treatable, and it's never too late to seek help to improve your quality of life. 

Key Takeaways:

• Trauma and PTSD are common after major cardiac events.
• Symptoms include anxiety, hyperarousal, and avoidance of triggers.
• Untreated trauma can impact physical recovery.•Knowledge is key to understanding and managing your experience.
• Speak to your doctor – help is available through therapy and/or medication.
• You are not alone and recovery is possible.

If this episode resonated with you, please share it. Follow my podcast for more vital discussions on heart health and recovery.

Resources:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder vs Post-Traumatic Growth

The Cardiac Trauma Reprocessing BLAST Technique®: Everything You Need to Know

Survival & Resilience: Life Before & After Jon Died

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.