THE CONNECTION BETWEEN MENTAL HEALTH AND PHYSICAL THERAPY
Physical discomfort is usually the main focus of a physical therapy appointment. Whether you suffered an injury or have recently undergone surgery, you’re doing everything possible to return to the activities you love. But you may not realize that your mental health can majorly impact your physical recovery.
your mind during recovery, but that’s not necessarily the case. Often simply participating in physical therapy can help improve your mental health.
Reduced Stress, Anxiety, and Depression As physical therapists, we aim to help you return to your regular lives with few to no restrictions. There may be moments when you feel like nothing will improve after an injury, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel! After meeting with a physical therapist, you’ll receive a road map to your recovery. When you see that things will eventually improve, you’ll notice improvements in your mental health. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression will gradually lessen as you continue on your healing journey. Improved Self-Esteem Unsurprisingly, your self-esteem may take a hit after suffering an injury or losing mobility, but physical therapy can help restore lost confidence. We’ll run you through various exercises, and at every appointment, you’ll gain a new sense of achievement as you progress toward your goals and regain mobility. Your confidence will improve even more as you work on the exercises we assign you at home. Better Sleep When you don’t sleep well, you can experience worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety. There’s no better way to ensure you get a good night’s rest than by exercising, and that’s exactly what we’ll help you do. Whether you’re coming in for an appointment or are following our guidelines for recovery at home, you’ll have an easier time falling asleep at night and will get much better rest.
You might think you need to see a mental health professional or start a new prescription to help
LAUGH THERAPY
Looking for a healthy stir-fry that has all of the delicious flavors and none of the heavy ingredients? This one might be perfect for you!
INGREDIENTS •
1 tbsp cornstarch 1 cup orange juice 2 tbsp soy sauce
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2 tbsp canola oil
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1 small onion, sliced 1/4 lb fresh snow peas
2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 sweet red pepper, julienned
Cooked rice
1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into thin strips
Green onion, chopped (optional)
Sesame seeds (optional)
DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch, orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until smooth; set aside. 2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, stir-fry pork in oil until lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove pork and add onion, peas, and red pepper. Cook until crisp-tender, about 3–5 minutes. 3. Stir in orange juice mixture and pork. Bring to a boil, and then cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Serve over rice. Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds, if desired.
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
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