Prescribing Joy after Heart Surgery, Aneurysm Repair, and Cardiac Events. Welcome back to From Recovery to Wellness! In today’s episode, we’re talking about something that may sound surprising—but is deeply real for people recovering after heart surgery, open-heart surgery, aortic aneurysm repair, or a major cardiac event: Joy is part of healing. After a life-changing medical event, many people focus only on physical recovery—walking, medication, follow-up appointments, and cardiac rehab. But emotional recovery matters too. Anxiety, fear, sadness, and emotional numbness are common after surgery, especially in the weeks and months that follow. In this episode, we explore how small, intentional moments of joy can support your nervous system, reduce stress, and help you rebuild trust in your body again—without pressure, guilt, or pretending everything is “fine.” This podcast is a supportive space for encouragement and education — not medical advice. Topics Covered (Listener-Friendly): Why emotional recovery is part of cardiac healing The “survival mode” phase after heart surgery and aneurysm repair How stress affects the heart, blood pressure, and recovery What “prescribing joy” really means (and what it does NOT mean) Simple joy practices that are gentle, realistic, and recovery-friendly Hard days: comfort...calm...relief; they all count Our weekly food focus Did you know? Reflection question