Seven ways to stay positive during a time of healing

One of the many issues being studied by the National Institutes of Health is how emotional health affects physical health. Links between the two are revealing that emotions do play a positive role in your physical health. Therefore, keeping a positive outlook during a time of recovery is an important consideration. Much attention is given to getting ready for a medical procedure but attention should also be given to what will happen after the procedure. Making a plan to remain positive during the recovery process can improve the outcome. Here are seven tips for boosting your emotional state during recovery.

Acknowledge emotions

When your car stops running, you can get it fixed and then it will be just like new. Humans are not cars. Undergoing a procedure is not an instant fix. There will be a time of healing and therapy. Deal with the feelings of “why is this happening to me?” and talk to others about your concerns. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust can help you sort them out and move forward.

Manage the stress

During recovery, you will need to accept some help as you regain the skills you once took for granted. You may have to rely on others for transportation, meals and laundry. Make arrangements for others to help you instead of stressing over trying to do everything yourself. Accept that things will not be the same as they were before the procedure while you are regaining your strength and balance.

Get into a recovery routine

Instead of indulging in a pity party by staying in bed and being depressed, establish a daily plan of activity and stick to it. Try to get up at the same time, eat meals regularly, take medications and exercise according to the doctor’s orders each day. Not only will this improve your mood, it will aid in an effective recovery.

Don’t create an island

Recovery doesn’t mean sitting alone in a dark room in your house. Try to be in contact with friends and family each day through phone calls. Invite others to visit you at home. When possible, try to leave the house to enjoy a lunch out with a friend or other activity. Interaction with others can improve mood.

Be realistic about recovery

Be realistic about getting back to your regular life. Your doctor can help you set a timeline of how long it will be before you can drive, climb stairs and do other life tasks. Accept that there might be some changes. You made need to use an assistive device or limit certain activities. Setting impossible goals can cause frustration and lead to negative feelings.

Celebrate progress

Although recovery is slow, be sure to acknowledge each step you make. Being able to put on your own shoes and socks may seem like a minor accomplishment but it is one more skill that has returned. Try writing down positive things that happen each day so you can see your progress. It is better to focus on what you can do than what you can’t do if you want to have a positive attitude.

Have a laugh

Studies have shown that smiling, even when you don’t feel like it, can reduce your heart rate and lower your blood pressure when you are under stress. Watch a funny movie or video and have a laugh. Laughter brings oxygen-rich air to stimulate your organs. Laughter also soothes tension, reduces pain, improves your immune system and makes you feel happy, according to Mayo Clinic.

Assuring a smooth recovery

For people with chronic health concerns or little home support, recovery can be very challenging. A wise choice in these situations is a stay in a short-term care facility where medical and emotional needs can be met.

Glenview Terrace has earned a reputation for providing a top-notch recovery experience. Whether you are recovering from a cardiac event or mending a broken hip, you can be sure your medications, wound care and other needs will be administered by Glenview Terrace’s attentive staff who work closely with the hospital and physicians. You will also work one-on-one with top therapists to help you quickly regain the strength, mobility and the confidence you need to return to your regular schedule. Your physical, occupational or speech therapy will take place in Glenview Terrace’s state-of-the-art rehabilitation gyms, including its orthopedic gym featuring floor-to-ceiling views of its tranquil fountain and patio. Compassionate staff offers the encouragement and positive reinforcement needed to move you toward your goals and keep your outlook positive.

Glenview Terrace delivers this top-notch care in an elegant setting that begins with beautifully landscaped grounds and continues into the spacious, well-appointed rooms. Guests can enjoy nutritious meals filled with the protein and vitamins needed to enhance the healing process. There are many opportunities for interaction with others during planned activities. Guests can also choose to relax in their rooms with a stunning array of amenities and services during their stay.

For a positive outlook during recovery consider Glenview Terrace, where the goal is always to successfully get you back to the independent lifestyle you desire. For additional information or to arrange a tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.