This Valentine's Day, make sure to show yourself some love! And we don't just mean with decadent chocolates and flowers... Although, yes!
What we really mean is to show your heart some love. Keep your heart healthy and ticking for many more holidays to come!
5 Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy This Valentine's Day
1. Pump Up Your Cardio
The American Heart Association recommends moderate to intense exercise for at least 15-30 minutes a day or a minimum of 2.5 hours a week. This may seem like a lot, but it can be fun and quickly done. Grab a work buddy to take a brisk walk with over your lunch break, or join one of our morning daily group fitness classes to get energized for the entire day.
2. Eat Heart-Healthy Foods
Look for foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and potassium. They help lower cholesterol and keep your arteries clear. A bowl of oatmeal is a great way to start the day, and salmon - also rich in omega-3 fatty acids - is an excellent choice for dinner. Learn more about the healthiest foods for heart health through the Genesis blog below.
Healthiest Foods for Heart Health
3. Relax
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Over time, high levels of cortisol can increase blood pressure and cholesterol. This may be easier said than done… But you need to find an outlet to relieve your stress! Maybe it's a high-energy All-American Training class at Genesis, where you can blow off some steam. Perhaps it's a relaxing massage with one of our skilled masseuses or rejuvenating Pilates class. Whatever it is, find something you like and let it go!
4. Open Your Heart With Yoga
Many Yoga poses serve to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. The Cobra pose is a particular favorite of ours, and Camel is an excellent heart-opener. Much like Cobra and Camel, our yoga classes' slow movements and breathing techniques can help relieve stress and open your heart. Check out the Yoga and other group class offerings at Genesis here.
5. Watch Your Sugar Intake
Research by the American Heart Association shows that added sugars add to your risk of heart disease. Added sugars are sugars, and syrups added to foods or beverages when processed or prepared. Put down the soda and opt for a glass of water with fresh fruit or slices of cucumber instead!
Learn some simple sugar swaps in the following Genesis blog:
Sugar Swaps! Healthy Alternatives to Lower Sugar Intake
Try any one of these heart-healthy tips and feel good about your health and wellness!
Show yourself some self-love and keep your heart healthy with a FREE day trial at Genesis Health Clubs!
Ready for a heart-pumping workout? Check out the couple's workout below, perfect for Valentine's Day!
Couple's Workout for Valentine's Day
