Caring for your heart health should be a 365-day project. The heart’s main role is to pump blood to deliver oxygen to every part of your body, including your brain. However, your heart can’t do this pivotal work if it’s not given the tools it needs to succeed, which is why it’s important to support your cardiovascular health in any way you can. Whether that be through various self-care practices to unwind, a (delicious) heart-healthy diet, or Nature’s Way supplements crafted to support heart health*, here are four ways to show your heart some love.
Self-care strategies
Everyone deserves time to focus on themselves, and making time for self-care helps reduce stress, which can positively impact your heart health. Here are some ideas to prioritize “me” time:
- Journal in the morning or before you go to bed. Write down three things that made you happy or five things you’re grateful for to get that warm, fuzzy feeling.
- Try out a digital detox and put your phone down.
- Host a dinner-for-one and cook yourself a new recipe, then enjoy it sans any distraction – just focus on flavor!
- Treat yourself to a spa day, either at home or somewhere luxurious!
- Create a vision board of your goals and dreams for the year.
- Relax with a hot bath or shower, using the products you normally don’t have time for.
Taking time for yourself is a key part of maintaining your overall well-being. Don’t forget to take a breath and allocate moments to nurture your heart’s happiness.
Heart-healthy diet
Your heart is hungry for salmon! Fatty fish is one of the best foods for your heart, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can support cardiovascular health.* Salmon, mackerel, and herring are sources of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids. Try this quick, easy, and delicious Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon to give your heart what it craves.
Another way to support cardiovascular health is to limit sodium intake. The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day, which is about a teaspoon of salt. Next time you’re at the grocery store, try to keep an eye out for reduced-sodium versions of your favorite foods or condiments, and increase flavor with spices instead of salt when cooking.
Eat your fruits and vegetables, especially veggies! Yes, you’ve been hearing it since you were a kid, but they truly are an important aspect of a balanced and heart healthy diet. If you’re wondering how to shift to a more plant-forward diet, read up on it here.
Heart-pounding exercise
Regular sweat sessions are an absolute must when caring for your heart, so get moving! The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity (like brisk walking, dancing, gardening, or water aerobics) or 75 minutes of intense activity (running, swimming laps, cycling, hiking) per week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises (like weight training). Just moving more is helpful in general; set a reminder so you get up and walk around each hour, do some hardcore housework, or hop on your bike when you have a quick break in the day. It all counts!
A supplement routine
You may want to consider adding a supplement or two to your routine to support your heart health.* (Be sure to speak with a healthcare professional before clicking “Add to cart,” though.) The bright red berries of the hawthorn plant in Nature's Way Hawthorn Berries are traditionally used to support heart health.* You’ll “heart” Super Fisol® Fish Oil, which contains 40% EPA, 200 mg per serving and 30% DHA, 150 mg per serving of omega-3 fatty acids to help support cardiovascular health.* See Supplement Facts for total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol content. For a little bit of self-care soothing, try out our Ashwagandha to help you reduce stress and adapt to daily stressors.*
Ways to show your heart some love
Show your heart some love by incorporating these tips on self-care, a heart-healthy diet and Nature’s Way heart health and stress support products into your wellness routine.* Don’t forget to treat yourself and prioritize your health and well-being every day.