Part II: Post- Surgery: Healing the Invisible
Since that moment in the recovery room, something deeper has unfolded—something I didn’t fully anticipate.
The first two days after surgery were not just about physical recovery. I became aware of the impact anesthesia and pain medication had on my body and energy. There was a heaviness and a fog that I was not comfortable with, and an underlying sense that my body was trying to find its balance again. I switched to extra-strength Tylenol to feel more connected to my body and my environment.
Beyond the physical, I recognized something else: trauma.
Trauma isn’t only emotional—it’s physiological. It is the body’s response to a perceived or actual threat, and even planned surgery can register as trauma. It can disrupt the nervous system, creating tension, imbalance, and a lingering sense of unease.
I knew I needed to address that layer of healing.
Two days post-surgery, I intentionally scheduled a session with a Reiki practitioner and hypnotherapist. This was not separate from my recovery—it was essential to it. That session allowed me to release stored tension and fear, process the experience, and begin restoring balance in my system to move past the fear.
At the same time, I continued my Tai Chi practice—small, mindful movements paired with breath. As I began sharing this experience with healthcare professionals, both in the recovery room and later at home, something powerful happened: the energy expanded. Interest grew. Conversations deepened.
What started as personal healing became something shared.
And the results have been undeniable.
My home health physical therapist has been amazing and amazed at my progress. I’m walking for longer distances outside with the walker and cane, and walking up 15 steps, experiencing minimal pain, and managing recovery with only Tylenol. My body feels supported not just structurally, but energetically. I feel emotionally and physically supported by my physical therapist at Northwell Health. He gets the whole person approach to recovery
This experience reinforced something I’ve long believed: healing must address both the visible and the invisible.
Call to Action:
If you’ve experienced surgery or a significant health event, consider not only the physical recovery but the emotional and energetic impact. What is one step you can take to support your whole-body healing?
If you’re looking for guidance or inspiration, explore my podcasts where I share ideas, tools, and conversations to support healing on every level.
Past blogs/Podcast link:
Getting Past Our Fear for Emotional Wellbeing and Healing Through Writing — Align OT https://www.alignot.com/align-ot-blog/8lu2czz9f71x1shrvire8z73zavje6
Benefits of nature, health, and well-being — Align OT https://www.alignot.com/align-ot-blog/2hsxl5c55lbcrrr49npsex29g67692
W.E.L.L. Matters Podcast Link: https://wellmatterspodcast.buzzsprout.com/
