My Heart & Mind with Sallie Crawley - Life after a Heart Attack or Cardiac Surgery

Sallie Crawley
My Heart & Mind with Sallie Crawley - Life after a Heart Attack or Cardiac Surgery

You survived the heart attack, cardiac surgery, or cardiac arrest, but now what? Life after a heart event can feel overwhelming, lonely, and uncertain. Your body may be healing, but your mind and emotions are still catching up.Friends say you’re lucky to be alive, and you know you are. But inside, you’re dealing with fear, exhaustion, and grief. You’ve been given a second chance, but you don’t know how to make the most of it. Your confidence is shaken, your energy is low, and no one really talks about how recovery is more than just medication and exercise.That’s where My Heart & Mind with Sallie Crawley comes in — the podcast designed specifically for people recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery, cardiac arrest, or living with heart disease. You’ll get emotional support, mindset tools, and practical strategies to help you rebuild your life - one breath, one step, one day at a time.Unlike medical podcasts that focus on clinical facts, My Heart & Mind is about the emotional and mental rehab you didn’t know you needed. Each episode blends Sallie’s personal experience as a heart patient with expert tips, inspiring interviews, guided visualisations, and real talk about how to manage fatigue, fear, and the inner critic.Sallie Crawley is a heart attack survivor, cardiac coach, and certified practitioner in mind-body wellbeing. She understands firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions that come after a cardiac event, and she’s helped hundreds of people navigate recovery with more hope, clarity, and self-compassion.Whether you’re newly diagnosed, weeks, months or even years into your recovery, or maybe supporting a loved one through theirs, this podcast will help you feel less alone and more in control. Tune in to learn how to manage your energy, shift your mindset, and find joy and purpose again - so you can live not just longer, but happier and better.🎧 Follow now to start healing from the inside out.

  1. Introducing Healthy Hearts & Happy Minds!

    1D AGO

    Introducing Healthy Hearts & Happy Minds!

    Join me for an exciting announcement! My Facebook page, formerly known as "Heart Attack, Heart Surgery & Heart Disease Survivors Support Group," is officially rebranding to Healthy Hearts & Happy Minds! 🎉  This new name truly reflects my mission: to support and empower individuals living with or recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery or cardiac diagnosis on their journey to a healthier and happier life. In this episode, I'll explore what this rebrand means for our community and introduce my three dedicated Facebook groups designed to offer even more tailored support: My Heart & Mind: Our main supportive community for connection and shared experiences.Smoking Hearts: A judgment-free zone for those quitting smoking after a cardiac event.Hearts Together: Dating for Singles with Health Challenges: A space for individuals with chronic health conditions to connect and build friendships.You are not alone on this journey. We're here to help you move from survivor to thrive! Key Takeaways: This rebrand emphasises a holistic approach to recovery, focusing on physical, emotional, and mental well-being.Discover three new dedicated Facebook groups for specialised support.Remember: You are loved, admired, and worthy of joy and happiness!Important Links Mentioned in this Episode: Healthy Hearts & Happy Minds (Main Facebook Page)My Heart & Mind (Main Support Group)Smoking Hearts (Quitting Smoking Support Group)Hearts Together: Dating for Singles with Health Challenges (Connection Group)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.

    8 min
  2. Can PTSD be caused by a heart attack, cardiac arrest or open-heart surgery?

    JUN 9

    Can PTSD be caused by a heart attack, cardiac arrest or open-heart surgery?

    I confront the reality of trauma and PTSD following cardiac events like heart attacks, cardiac arrest, or open-heart surgery. It's a question many ask, and the answer is a definitive yes. I discuss: The Reality of Trauma: How life-changing cardiac events can make your own body feel unsafe, and why these feelings are normal.What is PTSD? Understanding symptoms like re-living events, heightened anxiety (hyperarousal), rage, guilt, vivid nightmares, and avoidance behaviours.Recognising Triggers: How your brain's protective mechanisms can lead to anxiety around hospitals, medications, or even physical sensations.The Impact on Recovery: How untreated trauma and PTSD can hinder your physical recovery and increase health risks like inflammation and blood pressure.Taking the First Steps: The importance of recognising symptoms and speaking openly with your primary doctor.Treatment Options: Exploring "watchful waiting," Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to manage triggers and coping mechanisms, and the role of medication.Self-Help Strategies: Practical tips including exercise, social support, and general self-care.You are not alone; research suggests a significant number of cardiac patients experience PTSD. It's real, it's treatable, and it's never too late to seek help to improve your quality of life.  Key Takeaways: Trauma and PTSD are common after major cardiac events.Symptoms include anxiety, hyperarousal, and avoidance of triggers.Untreated trauma can impact physical recovery.•Knowledge is key to understanding and managing your experience.Speak to your doctor – help is available through therapy and/or medication.You are not alone and recovery is possible. If this episode resonated with you, please share it. Follow my podcast for more vital discussions on heart health and recovery. Resources: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder vs Post-Traumatic Growth The Cardiac Trauma Reprocessing BLAST Technique®: Everything You Need to Know Survival & Resilience: Life Before & After Jon Died 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.

    11 min
  3. Pumphead, Is That a Thing? (Post-Perfusion Syndrome)

    MAY 29

    Pumphead, Is That a Thing? (Post-Perfusion Syndrome)

    I dive into "Pumphead," or Post-Perfusion Syndrome, the post-operative brain fog many experience after heart bypass surgery. We'll cover: What is Pumphead? Common symptoms like brain fog, confusion, and dizziness.Why does it occur? Theories involving the perfusion machine and heart handling.Recognising Symptoms: How to identify signs like imbalance, difficulty problem-solving, or mood changes.Treatment & Recovery: Exploring medical approaches, cognitive exercises, social interaction, and lifestyle tips for improvement.Time as a Healer: Understanding that full recovery often happens within 3-12 months.If you're dealing with cognitive changes post-surgery, this episode offers vital insights and encourages seeking support. Key Takeaways: Pumphead is real and treatable.Symptoms often include brain fog and cognitive difficulties.Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.Recovery is possible with time and effort.Resources Mentioned: Discover Sallie Crawley's book, Cognitive Cardio Puzzles for a Healthy Heart & Mind, a great tool for recovery. (Available on Amazon).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.

    11 min
  4. Rebuilding the Engine with Triple Bypass Surgery - John Fraser's Story

    MAR 3

    Rebuilding the Engine with Triple Bypass Surgery - John Fraser's Story

    Join me in this powerful and candid interview with John Fraser, who shares his remarkable journey through a triple coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. At 66, John, a previously active individual, faced unexpected heart issues, leading to a life-changing operation. Listen as John details his experiences from initial symptoms and diagnosis to the challenges of surgery and recovery. In this episode, John opens up about: The initial signs and symptoms that led to his diagnosis.The emotional impact of waiting for surgery and the importance of a positive mindset.The realities of undergoing a triple bypass, including the surgical process and post-operative care.The complications of a collapsed lung and the added challenges it presented.The physical and emotional toll on both himself and his family.The recovery process, including physical rehabilitation and the return to everyday life.The experience of "pump head" and the changes he observed.The importance of advocating for your health and seeking support.John's story is a testament to resilience and the power of a positive outlook. Whether you've experienced a cardiac event yourself or know someone who has, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Key Takeaways: Understanding the importance of early detection and seeking medical advice.The significance of mental preparation and maintaining a positive mindset during challenging times.The physical and emotional aspects of recovering from major heart surgery.The impact of cardiac events on family and caregivers.The importance of rehabilitation and gradual return to activity.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.

    58 min
  5. Relaxamation - Today Is My Day (13 minutes)

    FEB 3

    Relaxamation - Today Is My Day (13 minutes)

    Today’s episode is a relaxamation and it focuses on taking time for yourself and putting yourself first. When was the last time you spent a whole day just for yourself, doing only what you wanted to do when you wanted to do it? I don’t do it very often myself and yet I know that I should.  It’s an essential part of self-care. Self-care shouldn’t be for when you’re burnt out, uptight, stressed and feeling awful it should be used as part of your everyday life to avoid feeling depleted and unable to cope. If you have others that you care for or look after then you need to look after yourself first. Think of the oxygen mask on the plane, always put it on yourself first else you won’t be able to save others and may even make the situation worse.  Life should be enjoyable as our mental health impacts our physical health; do you know what brings you joy? Maybe a bit of homework for you 😉 Time is something we can’t make more of but we can make more money, have more relationships or more jobs, and find some time for yourself. Live with gratitude for all the experiences you have, if you can’t give yourself a day, then look for an hour or maybe an afternoon.  Be glad you did rather than wish that you had! Do not listen to this episode while driving or operating machinery. Your affirmations Today is my dayI set aside time to laugh and playI spend time doing what I loveSay your affirmations 5 times each as a set. Repeat your set of affirmations at least once a day. The more you use them the bigger the impact. Add them to a habit that you do every day.  While cleaning your teeth, driving, running, walking your dog, washing the dishes, when you first wake up or the last thing at night.    Your self-reflection questions are: What is one new thing I want to try today?How can slowing down help me to stop wasting time?What can children teach me about enjoying life?What do I enjoy doing, having, and being?Use these reflection questions to delve a little deeper and get to know yourself better. You can use them as prompts for journaling, during meditation or just give yourself a few moments of time to consider. 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.

    13 min
  6. Embracing Awe: The Surprising Connection Between Wonder and Cardiac Wellbeing

    JAN 25

    Embracing Awe: The Surprising Connection Between Wonder and Cardiac Wellbeing

    I am not sure about you but does your cardiac event consume your life? Is your heart health at the centre of everything that you do or think?  Awe is an emotion characterised by a sense of reverence or wonder in response to something perceived as vast or great. Something outside of yourself. It has been shown to have several potential health benefits.  Today I am going to talk about awe as it has been shown to have a positive impact on both psychological and physical health, making it an important aspect of well-being after a heart attack or heart surgery. 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.

    13 min
  7. Relaxamation - I Am In Charge of How I Feel (13 minutes)

    JAN 17

    Relaxamation - I Am In Charge of How I Feel (13 minutes)

    The Dalai Lama said, “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.” To me, the quote means that experiencing pain, physical and emotional, is a natural and unavoidable part of life, but whether or not we experience suffering as a result of that pain is a choice that we can make. In other words, we can choose to let the pain control and consume us, causing suffering, or we can choose to accept the pain and manage it in a healthy and constructive way. Managing how we feel and react to people, circumstances, and situations can reduce our suffering. You are in charge of how you feel.  I’m sure you are familiar with the term, “You choose how you react”. Actually, it’s not 100% true as our limbic system is always on the lookout for trouble and anything that would be a threat so you may initially experience a fight or flight response. However, you can stop, take a breath or two, and calmly reconsider your response, there may be some facts you weren’t aware of, and therefore take charge of how you feel.   Do not listen to this episode while driving or operating machinery. Your affirmations: I am in charge of how I feelI choose thoughts that give me control of how I feelI decide how I want to feelSay your affirmations 5 times each as a set. Repeat your set of affirmations at least once a day.  The more you use them the bigger the impact. Add them to a habit that you do every day.  While cleaning your teeth, driving, running, walking your dog, washing the dishes, when you first wake up, or the last thing at night.   Your self-reflection questions are: In what situations do my emotions work against me? When I lose control of my emotions, what happens?How would my life be changed if I had more control over my emotions?Use these reflection questions to delve a little deeper and get to know yourself better. You can use them as prompts for journaling, during meditation or just give yourself a few moments of time to consider. 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.

    14 min
  8. Stress Less, Live More: 5 Breathing Methods to Improve Cardiac Health and Emotional Well-Being

    JAN 8

    Stress Less, Live More: 5 Breathing Methods to Improve Cardiac Health and Emotional Well-Being

    I am sure that like me you experience stress and anxiety. I thought that prior to my heart attack, I had it pretty much nailed anxiety and that I managed my stress levels well.  Perhaps I did but after discharge from the hospital it got really out of my control and I had to learn to practice what I had been preaching to my clients.  Today I am sharing with you 5 different ways of using your breath to improve your stress tolerance, enhance energy, and regulate your emotional and cognitive states.  Psychological SighBox BreathingDiaphragmatic Breathing4-7-8 BreathingAlternate Nostril BreathingRead 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.

    18 min

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About

You survived the heart attack, cardiac surgery, or cardiac arrest, but now what? Life after a heart event can feel overwhelming, lonely, and uncertain. Your body may be healing, but your mind and emotions are still catching up.Friends say you’re lucky to be alive, and you know you are. But inside, you’re dealing with fear, exhaustion, and grief. You’ve been given a second chance, but you don’t know how to make the most of it. Your confidence is shaken, your energy is low, and no one really talks about how recovery is more than just medication and exercise.That’s where My Heart & Mind with Sallie Crawley comes in — the podcast designed specifically for people recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery, cardiac arrest, or living with heart disease. You’ll get emotional support, mindset tools, and practical strategies to help you rebuild your life - one breath, one step, one day at a time.Unlike medical podcasts that focus on clinical facts, My Heart & Mind is about the emotional and mental rehab you didn’t know you needed. Each episode blends Sallie’s personal experience as a heart patient with expert tips, inspiring interviews, guided visualisations, and real talk about how to manage fatigue, fear, and the inner critic.Sallie Crawley is a heart attack survivor, cardiac coach, and certified practitioner in mind-body wellbeing. She understands firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions that come after a cardiac event, and she’s helped hundreds of people navigate recovery with more hope, clarity, and self-compassion.Whether you’re newly diagnosed, weeks, months or even years into your recovery, or maybe supporting a loved one through theirs, this podcast will help you feel less alone and more in control. Tune in to learn how to manage your energy, shift your mindset, and find joy and purpose again - so you can live not just longer, but happier and better.🎧 Follow now to start healing from the inside out.

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