Going through my first surgery was an eye-opening experience that reminded me just how incredible our bodies are—and why it’s so important to care for them.

Despite working in hospitals for over 18 years, my first real experience as a patient was during childbirth. Being healthy has always been a blessing, and it’s something I’ve never taken for granted. It’s what inspired me to pursue a career in health science and dietetics in the first place.

Like many women, I didn’t know exactly what to expect in the delivery room or what recovery would really be like. My last experience with childbirth was ten years ago, and it was a whirlwind of love, emotions, and learning about my body’s strength. I discovered what real pain feels like, what it means to truly rest, and that my body is capable of healing—even when it doesn’t seem possible.

So, why did I think I’d bounce back from surgery so quickly? Well, familiarity plays a part. I spent six years working in a surgical ICU, learning a ton from brilliant doctors and seeing patients go through surgery multiple times a week. I sympathized with them, but I couldn’t fully empathize until it was my turn.

I figured I’d recover quickly because I had the odds in my favor, right? No medical history, in decent shape, and I’d been prioritizing strength training and focusing on protein to boost muscle mass. (We know that good nutrition and higher muscle mass can lead to better post-surgical outcomes.)

But, even though I didn’t have any post-op complications, the recovery process still slowed me down, especially with the lingering effects of anesthesia. (I had gyn ambulatory surgery with a few abdominal incisions.)

This forced downtime gave me a chance to reflect on some things I’d been taking for granted.

Here are 3 lessons I learned after surgery that was a wake-up call for body appreciation:

Lesson 1: Your body is only as good as the care you give it. Sure, our bodies strive for balance and homeostasis, but being in good nutritional shape is crucial. Having enough vitamins, eating lean proteins to support muscle and healing, and consuming healthy fats to protect your heart can all speed up recovery, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications.

Lesson 2: I’m so grateful for the muscle mass I’ve built over time. Not being able to use my abdominal muscles because of the incisions meant relying on other muscles—like my lower back, other core muscles, and legs—to help out.

Lesson 3: I appreciate my body’s functionality more than ever. Whether you wear a size 10 or 12 doesn’t determine how well your body works. Nourish and move your body so it can carry babies, climb stairs without leaving you breathless, take long walks with your kids without worrying about making it back, and heal properly after any planned or unplanned events. This body gets me out of bed every morning, gets me to work, and lets me get everyone else in my life where they need to go. My body's functions are important and I want to treat my body right. 💪

Respect your body, appreciate your body, and love your body.

When you do, choosing healthy foods, habits, and exercise becomes so much easier.

Did you have a similar experience? Let me know!

✌️Peace friends,

Theresa