Show Your Heart Some Love: Supporting Heart Health This February

February is often associated with love and relationships, making it the perfect time to focus on heart health. At BMC Wellness Center, February is all about supporting a strong, healthy heart through simple, sustainable habits that fit into everyday life.

Heart health isn’t just about avoiding problems; it’s about building routines that help your heart work efficiently for years to come. The good news? Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

Small Habits Make a Big Impact

When people think of heart health, they often imagine drastic changes or intense routines. In reality, consistent, manageable habits are far more effective. Rather than overhauling everything at once, focus on incorporating heart-healthy choices a little at a time:

• Move your body regularly

• Choose foods that support heart function

• Manage stress

• Get adequate sleep

These simple habits add up and are easier to maintain long-term.

Move More for a Stronger Heart

Regular physical activity is one of the most important ways to support heart health. Exercise helps strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, and regulate blood pressure.

Aim for movement that feels enjoyable and sustainable, such as:

• Walking

• Strength Training

• Group Fitness Classes

• Stretching or Mobility Work

  
  

Even short bouts of movement throughout the day can benefit your heart.

Eat for Heart Health

A heart-healthy eating pattern focuses on nutrient-dense foods that support healthy cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.

Try to include:

• Fruits and Vegetables

• Whole Grains

• Lean proteins like fish, chicken, beans, and legumes

• Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado

• Limiting highly processed foods and added sugars can also support overall heart wellness.

Don't Overlook Stress and Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep can negatively impact heart health over time. Finding ways to manage stress, whether through exercise, mindfulness, or relaxation, helps protect your heart.

Prioritizing 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night allows the body, including the heart, to recover and function properly.

Consistency Over Perfection

Heart health isn’t about being perfect. Missing a workout or enjoying a treat doesn’t undo your progress. What matters most is consistency over time and making choices that support your overall well-being.

Show Your Heart Some Love this February

This February, take a proactive approach to heart health by focusing on small, meaningful habits. With the right support and guidance, these changes can lead to better energy, improved fitness, and a healthier heart.

One easy and impactful way to support heart health is through movement and community. Join us for our Heart Walk on February 25th, a simple, accessible way to get moving while showing your support for heart health. Walking is a low-impact activity that strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and is suitable for all fitness levels.

Explore our Health & Wellness Services to see how BMC Wellness Center can help you build habits that support your heart, this month and beyond.