we all need things in life that make us happy and things to do that help pass the time pleasureably...which is why I do quilting as it too makes me happy to accomplish something as i too can no longer do gardening which i so used to enjoy. it gives you a huge boost to accomplish even the smallest of things..so start small and see how you go from there. I also work less than my husband and feel guilty as he too is in a stressful job with long hours so i do things that i can to make him happy to come home. i cook nice meals and bake cakes and biscuits which he enjoys and generally just look after him when he is home. when i am in pain i do less and when i am able to i do more and i try not to stress about what i dont get done and just try to be happy for everything that i can do.
Try to keep moving when you can by walking and doing gentle exercises because as they say if you dont use it you lose it!