It's Fitness Friday (and the day before Valentine's Day), and I thought it would be appropriate to remind folks that February is American Heart Month. I've always wondered how months get named or turned into celebrations, so I did a little digging.
Here's what I found on this particular event:
Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, are our nation's No. 1 killer. To urge Americans to join the battle against these diseases, since 1963 Congress has required the president to proclaim February "American Heart Month."
Why include this info here? Well, I was recently approached by a dear friend's daughter who was fundraising for the American Heart Association this month because she recently lost her Grandmother to heart disease. My friend, and his daughter, suffered a direct loss and they're doing something about it from a research-support standpoint.
But - as individuals - we can choose to do the same, and/or we can choose to be in charge of our bodies, and do the things that make us healthier -- even if our genetics seem stacked against us.
Are you exercising regularly - either at home or a local fitness center? (February, by the way, is a great time to look at gyms.)
Are you making food choices that support healthy heart guidelines? It doesn't mean you can't eat out again -- it means you need to learn tips and strategies for how to enjoy your restaurant outings while also taking care of your heart health. Learn great food-selection tips from the Mayo Clinic here.
For a complete list of ways to help your heart, visit the American Heart Association. This page offers a variety of links to diet, fitness and educational resources.
Valentine's Day is just around the corner -- this is a matter of the heart we all need to address.
-reenie
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