Your Heart & Mind
Author: Hannah Hall, Challenge America Program Coordinator
Have you heard the phrase (or maybe said it yourself) “You almost gave me a heart attack!”?
Turns out, your emotional and mental health can affect your physical health, specifically your heart. Stress increases your blood pressure and heart rate which puts strain on your heart. With that chronic strain, the chances of a heart attack drastically increase. Strong emotions like anger can also increase one’s heart rate. Today’s post features some tips on how to help your emotional and mental health up in order to keep your heart healthy!
Recognize your feelings and express them: Write in a journal, talk to loved ones or seek professional help.
Manage your stress: Do yoga, daily meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Avoid heavy drinking and smoking.
Exercise! Just going on a 15 minute, brisk walk can help improve your mental health!
Eat a healthy diet: Get plenty of Omega-3’s which have anti-inflammatory effects. Stay tuned for our “Heart Healthy Recipes” post later this month!
