There’s no better time to prioritize heart health than during February, Heart Health Month! With love in the air, it’s the perfect opportunity to show some love to the most vital organ in our bodies—the heart. Maintaining heart health is a crucial aspect of our overall fitness journey.
Here are ten simple yet effective tips (in no particular order) to keep our hearts strong, vibrant, and ready for all the adventures that lie ahead!
Move Every Day: Take a stroll around the neighborhood, dance to your favorite tunes, or try some gentle exercises. We might even know where you can sign up for some awesome online classes. Moving keeps your heart happy!
Stay Hydrated: Water is your heart’s best friend. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports blood circulation, which helps your heart pump blood more easily. It is suggested that women drink 9 cups, or 72 ounces, every day, while men should drink 13 cups, or 104 ounces.
Mindful Meals: Fill your plate with colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like fish or beans to nourish your heart. Eat slowly and savor your food. It’s good for digestion and helps control portion sizes.
Good ZZZs: The better night’s sleep you get, the healthier your heart will be. Sleep is when your body rejuvenates. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to support heart health and overall well-being.
Manage Stress: Stress may lead to high blood pressure, which can pose a risk for heart attack and stroke. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga to reduce stress & promote heart health. A calm mind is a happy heart!
Laugh Often: Laughter truly is good medicine! It reduces stress and triggers the release of endorphins, which contribute to a healthier heart. Watch a funny movie (or cute baby animal videos on the internet), share jokes with friends, and embrace the joy in life!
Stay Socially Connected: Spend time with friends, family, and loved ones to boost your mood, reduce stress, and promote heart health. Even if it’s a phone call or video chat, social bonds are great for your heart. Our Facebook community is a great place to connect with like-minded people and strike up some conversations!
Limit Salt: Reduce your consumption of high-sodium foods. Use herbs and spices for flavor. Less salt is kinder to your heart and blood pressure. Keep track of your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s recommendations to keep it within a healthy range.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs or symptoms of heart problems, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, and seek medical attention if needed. Also, keep up with your regular doctor visits. Catching issues early is key to heart health.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every positive choice counts! Celebrating small wins is like fuel for motivation & boosting confidence. Recognizing these victories, no matter how small they may seem, adds up to a big feeling of accomplishment and keeps the momentum going. Pat yourself on the back for those heart-healthy habits!
Remember, these tips are small changes that can make a big difference in your heart health. Let’s make this month not just about valentines but about embracing a heart-healthy lifestyle that truly loves us back!
