The Heart of the Matter

February is Heart Month. While we are busy showing our love on valentines day, let’s give ourselves some love too.

It allows blood to course through your body and supplies oxygen to your muscles. It does a lot of work in the course of your life. Let’s remember to take time and show your heart some love.

Exercise: Your heart is a muscle and needs to be used. Cardiovascular exercise refers to the efficiency of your heart pumping blood through your body. A beginner should consider aiming for 30 minutes of cardio a day. This should gradually be increased as you become more efficient.

Eat well: You are what you eat. Processed food and sugary treats increase inflammation in the body and are linked to heart disease. Make gradual changes to your diet and substitute more nutritious food when you can.

Less Stress: This is near the top of the list for a reason. Stress causes inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to heart disease. Taking steps to decrease your stress, such as exercise, are ideal. Find what works for you, and make sure to practice every day. Find time in your day to practice breathing as it focuses the mind and body.

Rest Easy: Sleep is important because it allows the body to rest and repair; eight to ten hours is ideal. If your sleep is interrupted frequently, consider changing your diet and getting more physical exercise. These small changes may dramatically affect your sleep habits. Smoking is also a high-risk factor.

Making small changes towards a better quality of life is a good way to show yourself and others love.

Here’s to your heart!

#column #health