4 Heart-Healthy Self-Care Tips

By Brandi Goodman

American Heart Month arrives each year in February with the goal of encouraging people everywhere to take better care of the heart they have. Self-care is an important aspect of this. With some tips in mind, you can make sure your self-care routine is heart-healthy and worthy of your time.

Exercise When You're Stressed or Sitting

Two things affect your heart more than you may realize. Stress and sitting can both have harmful impacts on this organ. You should be doing what you can to prevent stress in your life so your blood pressure doesn't rise. Also, avoid sitting for extended periods to prevent heart disease. When you find yourself feeling stressed or you've noticed you've been sitting far too long, it's time to get up and exercise. It's one activity that can help with both problems and works to keep your heart strong.

Eat a Nutritious Snack

Whether you're feeling down and need a pick-me-up, or too tired to function, a nutritious snack can help. It's one of the best self-care options you have that is also beneficial for your heart. Don't turn to fattening foods and sugary desserts when you're stressed. They aren't good for your mind or body. A nutritious snack will fuel you and help you get through your day while keeping your heart safe. A handful of nuts and berries is a good option for a quick snack.

Set a Sleep Routine

Sleep is yet another self-care option. When you're not sleeping, you're most likely finding it difficult to get through the day. A lack of rest can have you feeling irritable, stressed, and even prone to illness. A lack of sleep can impact your heart as well. You raise your risk of developing health problems that can all lead to poor heart health. Set a sleep routine and make sure you're getting adequate rest at night to keep your heart in the best condition possible.

Manage Your Weight

Being overweight can lead to mental health struggles for many. It can be hard to feel good about yourself when you know you have weight to lose. Start to work on your weight and keep it managed as part of your self-care routine. Exercising, eating healthy, and sleeping should all help with this already, but you may need to put in some extra effort. Reducing your weight can help take some pressure off your heart that needs to work extra hard for the weight you hold.

Whether it's American Heart Month or not, you always need to take heart health seriously. If you ever experience pain in your chest, trouble breathing, or other unusual symptoms, be sure to see a doctor. What may seem like something minor could spell serious trouble for your heart. Keep these tips in mind and you're more likely to experience a heart that works well and continues functioning for the betterment of your health.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santee, Calif.

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