Prioritising Heart Health

Taking care of your heart is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health and well-being. We often associate our cardiovascular health with jogging, eating salads, destressing, and avoiding fried foods. But did you know that there are other ways to support a healthy heart? Keeping your heart in good shape is about more than just hitting the gym and eating right—it's about understanding everything you put into your body. As it turns out, maintaining a healthy and happy heart involves more than just the basics. Let us explore some fascinating ways you can give your heart the love and care it deserves, beyond the treadmill and salad bowl.

To begin with, sleep plays a vital role in promoting heart health. Consistently getting seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Poor sleep can lead to an increase in stress hormones like cortisol, which then might raise your blood pressure and heart rate.

Including more nuts and seeds in your diet that contain healthy fats can also be beneficial for active cardiovascular health. Foods like almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the arteries. A handful of these each day can make a big difference. Other than these dietary changes, including herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic also contribute significantly to a healthy heart. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease. Incorporating them into your meals not only enhances flavor but also gives your heart a healthy makeover.

Staying hydrated is another very basic yet powerful way to support your heart. When you’re dehydrated, your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the balance of blood and bodily fluids, making it easier for your heart to function efficiently.

Laughter truly is the best medicine, especially when it concerns heart health. It may be hard to believe, but laughing is great for your heart. This natural, relaxing response reduces stress, boosts your immune system, and improves blood flow by relaxing your blood vessels. So, just giggling, watching a funny movie, or sharing a laugh with your loved ones isn't just fun, it’s a mini-workout for your heart.

We often underestimate the importance of social connections. Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Maintaining strong, healthy relationships and a good social support network can help reduce stress levels and improve overall heart health. Spending time with loved ones isn’t just good for your mood but also for your heart.

Even your posture can affect your heart. Poor posture can lead to restricted blood flow and increased pressure on the heart and lungs. Practicing good posture, whether you're sitting, standing, or moving around, helps keep your blood circulating properly and reduces unnecessary strain on your heart.

Finally, staying positive and managing stress effectively can have a profound impact on heart health. Feeling overly stressed and being too anxious can lead to high blood pressure and other heart-related conditions. Mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing can help keep stress in check and promote a healthier heart.

Prioritising heart health is about embracing a holistic approach that includes proper sleep, hydration, nutrition, social connections, and stress management. By paying attention to these often-overlooked aspects of your lifestyle, you can support your heart in ways you might not have considered before. While diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices are crucial for physical and mental well-being, natural supplements like cannabinoid-based medications can also play a supporting role in cardiovascular health, especially as an adjunct therapy. Whether you're new to cannabis or looking to learn more about its effects, understanding its impact on your heart can help you make informed decisions and use it in a way that benefits your body.

While there are many ways you can make your heart healthier, pick a few practices that you can stick with that work for you. Listen to your body and trust your limits. It’s important to stay consistent and disciplined rather than looking for the benefits on day 1, week 1 or even month 1. Most ways to improve your heart health listed in this article are great ways to improve your overall health as well! Whether you’re eating better or meeting the right people, remember that it not only helps your heart health but also improves your mental health.