February. It’s a month full of hearts, love and togetherness. Valentine’s Day AND Family Day. But did you know that February is also Heart and Stroke month? While showing love to others this month , remember to show love to your own beating hearts. Let's embrace a healthier lifestyle this month and every month.
So how can we do this? According to the Canadian Heart and Stroke ,a healthy heart starts with a healthy lifestyle. To reduce your chances of developing heart disease or increasing the severity of an existing heart condition, here are some suggestions to help you lower your chances of developing heart disease:
1. Be Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Physical activity lowers your chances of developing heart disease and other conditions. Aim for 30 minutes a day.
2. Reduce stress :
Exercise, meditation and unplugging from technology are just some of the ways you can reduce stress in your life.
3. Have healthy meals:
Cooking at home is the easiest way to ensure you’re putting healthy fuel in your body. Add lots of heart-healthy, leafy greens, omega-3s and healthy nuts such as almonds and walnuts. Have fun with your meals!
4. Get enough sleep:
Your body needs time to rest, restore and rejuvenate. Not getting enough sleep puts you at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
5. Read.
Suprisingly, reading can have positive effect on your heart health. When you start reading, your blood pressure drops, and your heart rate and respiratory rate slow down. These effects combine to reduce the strain placed on your heart.
5. Be proactive:
Prevention is your best defence against heart disease. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and don’t ignore warning signs or gut feelings that something might be wrong.
A healthy heart is a happy heart.
Markham Public Library has many resources to help you embrace a healthier lifestyle. Check out these resources to help you live heart healthy all year round!
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