The holidays are a great time to relax and enjoy quality time with family, friends, or both.
With the reduced stress of work and everyday life, it’s often easier to focus on taking care of your heart health during the holidays.
Not only can participating in holiday activities like cooking, decorating, and making memories with loved ones reduce stress and help to lower blood pressure, but it can also give you the opportunity to form new healthy habits.
Here’s why the holidays are good for the heart and how you can take advantage of the season to protect it.
The Benefits of the Holidays on Heart Health
The holidays can provide many benefits to your heart health.
Here are a few examples of how the holidays are good for the heart:
- Reduced stress levels due to less demands of everyday life can help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health
- Participating in fun holiday activities like gingerbread decorating and games with loved ones can reduce stress and boost your mood
- With a new year around the corner, the holidays provide a great opportunity and extra motivation to form new healthy habits that can benefit your heart
Tips For Forming New Healthy Habits
The holidays are a great time to start forming new healthy habits that can benefit your heart health.
Healthy habits, such as healthy eating, activity, and stress reduction practices, can help you maintain your heart health in the long run.
Make Sure You’re Eating Right
Sweets, stuffing, gravy – oh my!
Traditional holiday indulgences can make healthy eating a bit of a challenge, so begin with small steps.
No need to completely restrict yourself or overhaul Christmas dinner!
Start by making a conscious choice to include balanced options into your holiday feasts. There are plenty of delicious and nutritious fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins that can seamlessly blend into your festive menu.
Speaking of which, check out these heart-healthy recipes for Christmas dinner!
Get Moving During the Holiday Season
Getting active during the holiday season is not only fun, but an important part of maintaining heart health.
Simple activities, such as walking or skating, can help to get your heart rate up – all while putting a smile on your face!
Why not look for local activities, such as holiday markets or outdoor ice rinks to enjoy with your family and friends? You can even get creative and try some indoor workouts at home if it’s too chilly outside.
Reduce Stress During the Holidays
The holidays can be a stressful time for many people, in a different way than work, but there are several ways you can reduce stress during this period too.
Remember, taking time to relax and unwind is key.
Why not take a warm bath or go for a walk by yourself? You can also practice mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, or journaling.
Whether it’s reading a book or meeting up with friends, taking time out for yourself can help reduce stress and improve your heart health during the holidays.
Wrapping Up: Taking Care of Your Heart During the Holidays
By taking this opportunity to reduce stress and form new healthy habits during the holiday season, you can help set yourself up for success for the upcoming year.
So, in this season of giving, give your heart the love it deserves!
The holidays are good for the heart, and so is being prepared! Make sure everyone in your home is protected this holiday season by equipping it with the In-Home AED.
