the advice on your "get well soon" card and be back to your old self in no time. You will

need A positive attitude A support system Pain-relieving medication Nutritious food

A routine A tranquil, odor free environment Exercise Physical therapy Patience and laxative

or extra fiber (optional). Always consult a physician before attempting to do any exercise

or exercise plan. Step 1. Maintain a positive attitude about yourself and your surgical

procedure. Thinking about wellness can have a dramatic affect on your recovery. Step 2.

Ask your doctor questions about what you can and cannot do during recovery. The rules of

recovery are critical knowledge. Step 3. Keep your incision clean and dry. Take pain relievers

as directed. If your pain lessens, lessen the dosage. Never increase your dosage without

first consulting your doctor. Step 4. Ask people you know to look in on you and support

you throughout your recovery. Some medications can cause constipation, so you may require

a mild laxative or additional dietary fiber. Step 5. Eat a nutritious, fiber-rich diet,

full of fruits and vegetables. After surgery, you can eat about 25 percent less than you

normally would, but once you increase activity, increase your caloric intake. Step 6. Develop

a daily routine and stick to it. A scheduled day helps you recover both mentally and physically.

Keep your environment tranquil and free of cigarette smoke, perfumes, and chemical odors.

Step 7. When you are strong enough, begin walking a few minutes a day, building until

you are able to walk at least 30 minutes easily and effortlessly. Studies show that even a

little bit of walking can dramatically improve the body's ability to heal. Step 8. Attend

the physical therapy sessions prescribed by your doctor. Step 9. Be patient with yourself

and your body. Surgery takes a toll on your emotional and physical health. In time, with

a healthy routine and a positive mind-set, your body will be fully healed. Did you know

In 1967, Dr. Christiaan Barnard, a surgeon from South Africa, transplanted the first

human heart.