Heart & Mind - Life after a Heart Attack or Cardiac Surgery

Sallie Crawley

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. 055 Relax - I Adapt and Adjust to What Is

    FEB 4

    055 Relax - I Adapt and Adjust to What Is

    A relaxamation to help you adapt to life’s changes after a heart attack or cardiac surgery.  I will guide you through a gentle journey of relaxation and with the affirmation “I adapt and adjust to what is.” You'll learn how to reduce resistance, find emotional flexibility, and rebuild confidence.  What You’ll Experience: Progressive body relaxationA quiet the mindThe affirmation “I adapt and adjust to what is”Emotional groundingRenewed confidence in your ability to adaptSelf-Reflection Journalling Prompts: How can I change my attitude toward “adjust” and “adapt”?What 3 things can I do today to adjust and adapt to change?Resource: You are not alone in your recovery from a cardiac diagnosis. Come and make friends by joining my Heartie Support community on Facebook.  Not sure what a Relaxamation is? You can find more information here: Episode 22 called Relaxamations Explained - The Big Calm & The Feel-Good Factor 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.

    20 min
  2. 054 Journey to End-of-Life Peace: Planning with Love, Purpose & Kindness

    JAN 21

    054 Journey to End-of-Life Peace: Planning with Love, Purpose & Kindness

    End-of-life planning doesn’t have to be scary. In this episode, Sallie Crawley gently guides you through how to plan your care, medical wishes, and farewell in a way that brings clarity, comfort, and peace for both you and your loved ones. Through heartfelt personal stories, practical advice, and compassionate guidance, Sallie shows how even small decisions—from choosing music for a ceremony to writing a will can transform fear into reassurance, grief into meaningful remembrance, and uncertainty into calm. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, reflecting on your own wishes, or just curious, this episode encourages you to live fully while preparing thoughtfully for the final chapter of life. Resources:  Get the FREE End of Life Peace Pack ✨ A Gentle End-of-Life Planning Guide ✨ A Practical Checklist ✨ A Joyful Life Experiences List 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
  3. 053 GTN & Vasodilators - Managing Angina Effectively

    JAN 7

    053 GTN & Vasodilators - Managing Angina Effectively

    In this episode, I will explain what vasodilators are, the difference between short-acting and long-acting nitrates, and how to use GTN spray and tablets safely. Learn about common side effects, emergency tips, and practical advice for living confidently with angina. Key Points Covered: How vasodilators work to improve blood flow and reduce heart workloadShort-acting vs long-acting nitratesStep-by-step instructions for GTN tablets and sprayWhat to do in an angina emergencyCommon side effects and how to manage themResources: Get Your FREE Heart & Angina Symptom Word Bank and Journal. This journal and word bank is easy to use. Keeping track of your symptoms, the severity, frequency and any patterns can be really useful for yourself and your medical team.  It helps build a picture over time and may highlight patterns that can help you and your medical team manage it more effectively.  Important Information: Talk to your GP or cardiologist for personalised adviceKeep emergency GTN spray or tablets with youRemember: if pain persists after 2 doses, call 999, 911 or Emergency ServicesRead 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.

    10 min
  4. 052 Why Saying THE Heart Attack vs MY Heart Attack Matters

    12/31/2025

    052 Why Saying THE Heart Attack vs MY Heart Attack Matters

    Reclaiming Your Life Story: Why “A Heart Attack” or “The Heart Attack” Matters More Than “My Heart Attack”.  The words we use to describe a health event can influence how we cope, heal, and view ourselves. In this episode, I explore why saying “a heart attack” or “the heart attack” instead of “my heart attack” can empower recovery, reduce fear, and help you reclaim your story. You’ll learn practical tips for shifting language, distancing yourself from illness labels, and building emotional resilience. Key Takeaways: Language shapes perception: using “a heart attack” or “the cardiac arrest” creates distance from the event.Linguistic distancing can lower anxiety, depression, and fatigue.Small shifts in self-talk and conversation with others can support emotional recovery.This principle applies to other conditions too, from migraines to cancer to depression.Reclaiming your narrative is an ongoing, intentional practice.Resources & Links: PNAS study on linguistic distancingPeople-first language in healthcareJoin my Heartie Support communityRead 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.

    12 min
  5. 051 Relax -  I Trust Myself to find Moderation

    12/24/2025

    051 Relax - I Trust Myself to find Moderation

    I will guide you through a relaxamation session that supports balanced living and moderation during the festive season. Using gentle relaxation, body awareness, and the affirmation “I trust myself to find balance and moderation”, this session helps people living with cardiac conditions enjoy celebrations with confidence and calm. Not sure what a Relaxamation is? You can find more information here: Episode 22 called Relaxamations Explained - The Big Calm & The Feel-Good Factor Who It’s For: Anyone recovering from heart disease, heart failure, cardiac arrest, heart attack, or surgery, who wants to enjoy life safely, mindfully, and joyfully. Resource: You are not alone in your recovery from a cardiac diagnosis. Come and make friends by joining my Heartie Support community on Facebook.  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.

    21 min
  6. 050 Quitting Smoking - The Voice That Says You Can’t

    12/17/2025

    050 Quitting Smoking - The Voice That Says You Can’t

    Today, I explore the hidden psychology behind why it can be so difficult to quit smoking after a cardiac event, especially when you’ve tried before. Discover how your brain’s limbic system tricks you into believing you can’t cope without nicotine, and how to rewire that inner dialogue using calm, compassionate, and evidence-based tools.  What You’ll Learn:  The real reason your brain resists quitting - and it’s not lack of willpowerHow to spot the “limbic lies” that tell you you’ll die or lose yourself without nicotinePractical ways to respond to cravings with calm awarenessThe Allen Carr mindset shift from deprivation to freedomWhy relapse isn’t failure — it’s feedback Resources Mentioned: Blogs: Quitting Smoking After a Heart Event Allen Carr’s Easy Way to Stop Smoking Join the Smoking Hearts - Quitters ClubGet your FREE Guide: How to Get Ready to Quit Smoking for the Last TimeHypnosis Recording: Quitting Cravings Key Quote:   “Nicotine doesn’t relax you — it only ends the withdrawal it caused in the first place. True peace comes from freedom, not fear.”   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. 049 Love, Intimacy & Sex after a Heart Attack or Surgery

    12/10/2025

    049 Love, Intimacy & Sex after a Heart Attack or Surgery

    Intimacy, love, and sexual connection can feel complicated after a heart attack, cardiac arrest or surgery but they are a vital part of your recovery and emotional wellbeing. In this episode, Sallie Crawley walks you through the challenges, practical strategies, and gentle steps to help you reconnect with your partner and with yourself. You’ll learn: Common sexual and intimacy challenges after heart surgery or a heart attackWhy these challenges happen, from medications to emotional stressHow to safely restart sexual activity with your doctor’s guidanceWays to feel close to your partner without sexStrategies to rebuild confidence, self-esteem, and body positivityWhether you’re feeling anxious, physically changed, or just unsure where to start, this episode provides practical guidance, emotional support, and hope for a fulfilling intimate life post-heart event. Resources   👉 Explore recommended lubes on Amazon 👉 Browse recommended massage oils on Amazon💞 Get your FREE Dating Ideas ChecklistDisclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding sexual activity and recovery after a heart event. 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.

    12 min
  8. 048 Ejection Fraction (EF) – Understanding Your Heart’s Strength

    12/03/2025

    048 Ejection Fraction (EF) – Understanding Your Heart’s Strength

    Understanding your ejection fraction (EF) can feel confusing, especially after a heart attack, heart surgery, or when living with heart disease. In this episode  I break down EF in simple, relatable terms and explains why it matters for your heart health. You’ll learn: What ejection fraction is and what the numbers meanWhy EF matters for your energy, oxygen flow, and overall wellbeingHow EF is measured and what to ask your doctorPractical steps to support your heart, including diet, exercise, and stress managementA gentle, actionable “Heart-Pump Boost” activity to help you feel more connected to your heart and empowered in your recoveryWhy Listen: This episode is for anyone recovering from a heart event, living with heart disease, or supporting a loved one. It’s about understanding your heart’s current strength, learning simple tools to improve wellbeing, and moving from fear to freedom — step by step, beat by beat. Actionable Takeaways Try the Heart-Pump Boost, a short daily practice to connect with your heart, reduce stress, and build confidence in your recovery journey. Simple step-by-step instructions are included in the episode. Resources:  Take control of your heart health! After a heart attack or cardiac surgery, understanding the medical terminology is crucial. This FREE Heart Health Terminology Cheat Sheet empowers you to understand what your healthcare providers are saying. Imagine being able to confidently discuss your condition, ask the right questions, and actively participate in your treatment.  Download your FREE cheat sheet and start feeling more empowered about your heart health journey. Links: Learn more about EF: American Heart Association – Ejection FractionEF explained: Cleveland Clinic – Ejection FractionJoin the conversation: Share your experience, questions, or reflections in the comments or contact me via My Heart & Mind Community.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.

    12 min

Trailer

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

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.