Recovering from surgery can take time, from a couple of weeks to several months. During this period, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and take good care of yourself. Since many surgeries require limited movement, you might find yourself with more free time than usual.
Even with certain limitations on your activities, there are still plenty of enjoyable and fulfilling ways to spend your time, especially if you have by your side experts in post-operative care at home in Los Angeles. Keep reading to find out how to keep yourself busy and entertained during recovery.
How to keep yourself busy while recovering from surgery?
While recovery is crucial for healing, it can also leave you feeling bored or restless, so here are some safe and entertaining activities to keep you engaged:
Watch comforting TV shows or movies
Now’s the perfect time to revisit favorite shows or explore new ones you’ve been meaning to watch. Light-hearted comedies, nostalgic series, or slow-paced dramas can be soothing and uplifting. Choose content that matches your energy level, something that keeps your mood positive and doesn’t require too much focus. Streaming platforms also offer documentaries, stand-up comedy, and relaxing nature films for variety.
Listen to audio books or podcasts
If screen time tires your eyes or you prefer to rest with your eyes closed, audiobooks and podcasts are wonderful companions. You can enjoy novels, true crime stories, guided meditations, or educational topics, all hands-free. Audiobook apps or podcast platforms have something for everyone, from history and health to humor and storytelling.
Do puzzles or simple games
Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, word searches, and simple brain games can help keep your mind active without being physically demanding. Digital versions are available on tablets and phones, or you can go the traditional route with a puzzle book. If you’re up for a little more interaction, card games or mobile games like solitaire or matching games can provide light mental stimulation.
Explore guided meditation or gentle breathing exercises
Entertainment doesn’t always have to be fast-paced. For example, guided meditation apps and videos can offer calm and relaxation, and help you reduce stress and sleep better during recovery. Breathing exercises or gentle mindfulness practices are low-effort and can be done lying down or seated, offering mental clarity and emotional balance while your body rests.
Get creative with journaling or drawing
If you enjoy writing or doodling, journaling can be a soothing way to express yourself. Reflect on your healing journey, jot down things you’re grateful for, or simply free-write whatever comes to mind. You don’t need to write pages, just a few thoughts a day can help you feel more connected and present. Coloring books for adults, sketch pads, or digital drawing apps are also a great option.
Connect with friends and family
Staying socially connected can lift your spirits. Schedule short video chats or phone calls with your loved ones. If you prefer a more laid-back approach, send text messages or voice notes. You can even try virtual game nights or movie-watching sessions if you feel up to it. A few minutes of light conversation can go a long way in easing loneliness.
Need trusted post-operative care at home in Los Angeles?
If you’d like to learn more about the dos and don’ts of post-operative recovery, you’re looking for tips for a safe and fast recovery, or want to ensure proper recovery monitoring, you can rely on our team at A Better Way in Home Care to connect you with the right experts who meet your exact needs. No matter if you need help near the Los Angeles County Museum of Arts or in another nearby neighborhood, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us today!
