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.

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

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.