How Are You Taking Care of Your Heart?

Over 30% of all deaths are due to cardiovascular diseases

During this week, we celebrate World Heart Day. Why would we have such a day?

To remind us to take care of our hearts.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 31% of total deaths worldwide are due to cardiovascular diseases.

That is more than a startling statistic. It is a call to action.

Being heart healthy is an investment in ourselves so that we can serve others.

We need to actively take care of our hearts through exercise, diet, and healthy living.

Beyond that, we need to manage our stress.

Lesson to Learn

It has never been more important to take care of our heart health.

In times of stress, we can begin to do the things that damage our health.

We can also choose to do things that promote our heart health. For example, we can commit to a healthy diet.

Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are well-known for their wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Other great foods are whole grains, berries, avocados, fatty fish, fish oils, walnuts, beans, dark chocolate (one of my favorites!), tomatoes, almonds, seeds, garlic, olive oil, and green tea.

We should also commit to routine exercise. Just 30 minutes, three times a week can do wonders for your heart.

Lowering stress through proper sleep and relaxation is also critical — as is spending time with friends and family.

All these measures give us a healthier heart.

Answer for Me

The last six months have been very stressful.

I have seen the same stress in colleagues, friends, and family.

Our team here at MACNY has felt it too. The level of change and on-going challenges have compelled me to increase my attention to those behaviors that help me stay healthy.

I have needed to increase my exercise, eat healthier, lose some weight, consciously take breaks for rest, and see friends and family using digital technologies.

Staying fit has become a top priority of mine. Not only does it make sense during a pandemic, but it also makes sense in protecting my heart.

Action

Now is a good time to survey your habits.

What small change could help you increase your heart health?

Are you exercising enough?

How are you eating? Are their healthier foods you can introduce into your diet?

How much sleep and rest are you getting? How can you give yourself the rest you need?

Who can you reach out to and have quality time with?

These questions can help you start an incremental plan to increase your heart health and satisfaction with your life.

This will lead to greater effectiveness in your work and at home.

Daily Habits

Each day can be a new start to a healthier heart and life.

Keep track of what you are eating.

Get exercise daily.

Find ways during your day to lower your stress.

Spend time with those who make you laugh and enjoy life.

Encourage others each day — it helps both them and you.

End your day with a review and commitment to a healthy tomorrow.

To learn more about leadership visit me at www.macny.org.

To get a copy of my book Present-Future Leader, go to www.amazon.com.