Should I rest the day before surgery?

Preparing your body: Why resting before surgery matters

Heading into surgery can feel overwhelming, and it is completely normal to wonder how to spend your final free day. While staying active in the weeks leading up to your procedure is a great way to keep your body strong, the day right before surgery calls for a shift in pace.

Resting is essential. Giving your body a full day of downtime helps lower stress levels and conserves your energy. Instead of pushing through a tough workout or tackling heavy chores, use this time to wind down. Focus on gentle relaxation, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and take care of any final prep so you can head to bed early.

Getting a solid, restful night of sleep is one of the best things you can do to prepare. A calm, well-rested body responds better to anesthesia and recovers much more smoothly. Take a deep breath, listen to your care team's instructions, and give yourself permission to completely unwind.