"Oh the things you can do that are good for you"

"Oh the things you can do that are good for you" (Reference: Cat in the Hat Library)

Prior to surgery recommendations:

• Pilates classes: these are the muscles needed to get in and out of bed. Learn how to do the lower body exercises, they can be done immediately postop
• Yoga exercises for shoulder mobility. The more flexible before surgery, the more flexible (and realistic) after surgery
• Learn meditation, especially breathing meditations. They can be done anytime, anywhere.

Post surgery

• Be aware of pain and don’t overdo. Listen to your body.
• Pilates exercises in the bed in the morning also help with bowel movements
• Passive shoulder stretches, e.g rest your arm overhead on a pillow, can make things more comfortable.
• Meditate every day. 
• Do not worry, do not anger, be grateful, be compassionate to yourself and others.