If you have an orthopedic surgery scheduled this year, what you do before surgery matters more than most people realize. Preparing your body, nervous system, and daily routines ahead of time can help reduce stress, support healing, and make recovery feel more manageable once surgery is behind you.

Four years ago, I walked into the operating room with two failing hips and a determination to get my life back. What followed wasn’t luck or a quick bounce-back. It was the result of thoughtful preparation, steady rehab, and the kind of mindset that turns a hard season into a turning point. Today, I’m stronger than I was before surgery, back to the activities I love, and more committed than ever to helping others navigate their own path to recovery. If you’re preparing for hip replacement surgery or healing from one, my hope is that this story shows what’s possible with the right support, clarity, and care.

Preparing for or recovering from surgery during the holidays can feel like a lot. In this post, you will learn simple, realistic ways to support your body and nervous system so you can enjoy the season without sacrificing your healing. From food and movement to sleep and stress, small choices matter.