FEBRUARY IS HEART HEALTH MONTH BY NIKKI HOFFMAN

Have a heart! February is Heart Health Month. It is all about energy, vitality, and maintaining healthy hearts. Focusing on heart health is critical for everyone, especially us seniors.

Simply increasing movement can lower many heart disease factors. Regular aerobic activity strengthens both the heart and lungs. Walking, bicycling, dancing, and swimming are good examples. Golf incorporates cardiovascular exercise along with strength training, balance and coordination. Even pushing a grocery cart around the store is an aerobic activity! Fitness classes at Harbor Hills include low-impact aerobics, water aerobics, line dancing, and yoga.

Motivation becomes harder as we age. Start with two and a half hours of physical activity each week. That’s only 30 minutes per day, five days a week. Eating healthy foods and maintaining a healthy weight go hand in hand. Carrying too much weight increases heart disease risk, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

The toughest goal for many of us is reducing stress. One healthy way to manage stress and improve sleep is by meditation. Peaceful sounds can be downloaded from the internet to aid in sleep. Many apps for relaxation therapy can be found online.

The connection between health and friendship is well documented. Harbor Hills members and guests will strengthen this connection with a spectacular Valentine’s dinner celebration on February 14th. This special evening features live entertainment, your choice of entrée and drink specials. Don’t forget the chocolate bomb for dessert! Contact 352-753-7000 by February 11th to purchase your ticket.

Make your self-care story successful. The people who love you are depending on it.