As we have seen, research and patients' direct reports of their experience show that relaxation practices can have a positive impact before and after surgery. To help this type of training become a regular part of pre-surgical preparation we are offering this free online course developed over the past 8 years by Aurora Ocampo, clinical nurse specialist at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. In this way, anyone with access to a computer can get these benefits. We are grateful to the Balm Foundation for making this possible.

Let's begin with Ms. Ocampo's work with patients before surgery which combines helpful information and direct relaxation practice.

Reducing stress and boosting your healing
What we really want before surgery is to trigger the release of healing hormones like endorphins and serotonins that will assist you in healing in a normal time frame or healing faster. Endorphins are known to be your body's natural pain killer so they also help you cope better with your pain. And as studies show, being physically, emotionally and mentally prepared for surgery through relaxation practices may also help prevent many complications that can delay your healing.

Learning how to manage your anxiety really is the foundation and success of these practices. When you're anxious and your stress level is way up, your body releases a hormone called cortisol that can alter white blood cell function, compromise your immune system and create a more open environment to infection. In preparing for surgery you want to be in an optimal level of wellness so that you prevent any complications.

These techniques work to support your body's ability to mend, to decrease complications and to shorten the recovery period. By healing faster or at a normal rate, you're able to go back to your activities of daily living, go back to work, go back to enjoyable recreation a little faster, and not delayed.