Absence makes the heart grow fonder, or at least that's what "they" say. Do you know what else makes your heart grow fonder? Taking the time to care for it. So, just as Roxette famously sang, “Listen to your heart, there’s nothing else you can do.” There are a number of things you can do to help your heart grow fonder…and healthier.
Each February in the United States is American Heart Month. During this month, organizations, including but not limited to the American Heart Association, share resources and highlight how we can keep our hearts healthy and strong. February might be the dedicated month focused on heart health, but there are many important reasons to keep marching forward on your heart health journey. You may even be surprised by the health benefits you notice.
Movement is key
One of the best ways to keep your heart healthy is to ensure that you are moving more throughout the day. The recommendations for US adults are to move more, with more intensity, and sit less throughout the day. Moving more decreases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and all-cause mortality. Not only can movement help with these long-term benefits, but new evidence shows that physical activity has immediate health benefits, such as improving sleep, lowering blood pressure, and reducing symptoms of anxiety.
How much should I be doing and what counts?
Some of my best bouts of cardiovascular activity come from random races, impromptu wrestling matches, or post-dinner dance parties with my kids.
Rewarding yourself for moving
One of the ways that you can reward yourself for focusing on your heart health is by participating in the Health Impact Program (HIP). This program offers benefits-eligible employees the opportunity to engage in health activities and wellness screenings while on their way to earning a monetary incentive award. Contained within HIP, users can track physical activity, track healthy habits, take on different health journeys, and even participate in stress management or yoga sessions through the RethinkCare modules. Below are a few examples of the many tools available to help you focus on your heart health.
Lower stress and blood pressure by participating in RethinkCare daily mindfulness practice:
Take on a health journey at your own pace to build or maintain healthy habits:
Challenge yourself, or your co-workers to move more, eat more veggies, or even meditate more.
Don’t know where to start with HIP? Consider requesting a HIP Overview session for your department so you can get the most out of this award-winning program.
Your heart, your health
Really, movement and your health are about you. Finding what type of movement you enjoy and keeps you motivated is important. Some physical activity is better than none, and increasing physical activity over time to achieve and maintain the recommendations is the goal. Your heart will thank you for that now and in the future.