MemorialCare Health System Your Health: Increase Activity Reduce Stress

Active Body, Healthy Heart
Regular physical activity can help reduce your risk of coronary heart disease. Therefore it is extremely important to get some type of physical activity whether it is low-to-moderate or high intensity activity. Even low to moderate activities such as dancing, housework and gardening may benefit your heart. However, the more vigorous the exercise the more chance you have of improving the fitness of your heart. Vigorous activity may include swimming, biking and jogging.

Don’t forget that you can get exercise in your home by working out with your family, exercising while you watch TV or even walking to the store to pick up a few groceries. At your office, take the stairs and/or park a bit farther away than usual and walk to the office.

On the weekends take your family outdoors and get some exercise. Even flying a kite or walking along the beach gets the family active and provides great entertainment. It’s easy, fun and beneficial to your overall health to make exercise a regular part of your day.

Remember it is important to consult your doctor prior to beginning a physical activity program.

Start Reducing Your Stress Levels Today
More women are feeling the strains of stress on their everyday lives. Demands from work, home and other aspects of daily lives such as finances and relationships may contribute to feelings of stress. Some of the emotional signs of stress may include nervousness, anxiety, irritability and trouble sleeping. Back pain, chest pain, headaches and pounding heart may be physical signs of stress. Stress is especially of concern to women with heart failure, as emotional stress and anxiety cause the heart to work harder.

Tips for stress reduction include:

1. Making time for yourself.
2. Exercising.
3. Talking with family, friends or a trusted advisor regarding your concerns.
4. Counting to 10 before you respond when you are angry.
5. Joining a support group.
6. Giving yourself enough time to get things done.