Mentally Prepping for Surgery

My second surgery is quickly approaching, so I thought that it would be beneficial to sit down and think about how I want to handle this recovery different from the first surgery, since I know what to mostly expect this go round!

      Looking back at my last 6 weeks when I was on crutches, I went into the recovery thinking it was going to be easier than it ended up being. Who knew only being able to move with crutches was difficult?! (I kid). But I didn’t realize how difficult it actually is, so the mental part was a struggle. Before my first surgery I didn’t take time to write down what I wanted to do with my time since I wouldn’t be able to do what truly brings me joy so I got into a slump. This time I want to make sure I have a list I can go back to when I am feeling down.

-   I am going to keep in mind how good my left hip feels post-surgery and how amazing it will be when both my hips are feeling normal.

-   Focus on the rest and recovery (80-120 minutes on the spin bike, PT, meditation, etc..)

-   Read a few books- if anyone has any suggestions let me know :)

-   Spend more time outside, whether it be going to a coffee shop or sitting in a park. Nature heals.

-   Learn more about nature/the environment and how they all interact.

-   Arts and crafts, a paint by number is already in the mail!

-   Really focus on resting and eating well. Last time I felt guilty when I just sat on the couch for a while but I realize that is what is necessary to heal.

-   Work on van designs and research to build out a van for a few years of adventures :)

-   Be patient with everything and remember that everything will take a lot longer and not get upset when things aren’t as easy as they normally are.

I think that having this to look back on will help me be in the right mindset for recovery. I realize that there will still be hard days and difficult moments. In those times I need to remember to be kind to myself and treat myself with grace and not be harsh towards myself. Another 6 weeks on crutches and 3-4 months of PT won’t be easy but I know it will be worth it on the other end. I am already dreaming of the adventures that are going to happen in 2025!