Taking care of our heart should be a top priority for everyone. As I’ve journeyed towards a heart-healthy lifestyle, I’ve come to cherish a handful of habits that have not only improved my cardiovascular health but also enriched my overall well-being. Let me share with you some of these beloved practices, backed by research studies:
7 Tools for Happy and Healthy Heart
1. Snap Supplements Nitric Oxide Beets:
One of my heart-loving staples is Snap Supplements Nitric Oxide Beets. These little crimson powerhouses are packed with nitrates, which our bodies convert into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a vasodilator, meaning it helps relax and widen blood vessels, improving blood flow. A study published in the American Heart Association’s journal “Hypertension” found that dietary nitrate supplementation, like that found in beets, can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure, promoting heart health [1]. Use code LUNDEN25 for 25% OFF all your Snap Supplement orders (this is a code you can use as many times as you want!)
2. Hummingbee’s Breath:
Hummingbee’s Breath is a mindful breathing technique that I’ve incorporated into my daily routine. This pranayama practice involves inhaling deeply through the nose and exhaling while producing a humming sound, mimicking the sound of a buzzing bee. A study in the “Journal of Clinical Psychology” found that practices like humming meditation can reduce stress and improve overall emotional well-being [2]. This simple yet effective technique has been shown to increase nitric oxide production in the body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, as supported by research [3]. I love the way this breathing technique feels — the humming sound feels like a massage for my face. Want to book a one-on-one breathwork session with me on Zoom? Click here!
3. Heart-Opening Yoga:
Yoga has been an integral part of my heart-healthy journey. Heart-opening yoga poses, like camel pose (Ustrasana) and bridge pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana), not only stretch and strengthen the chest muscles but also encourage emotional openness and self-compassion. A study published in the “Journal of Clinical Psychology” found that yoga practices that focus on heart-opening postures can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression [4].
4. Gratitude Practice:
Cultivating gratitude is a heart-boosting habit that costs nothing but yields immeasurable rewards. Regularly taking time to acknowledge and appreciate the people, experiences, and blessings in our lives can reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. A study in “Psychosomatic Medicine” showed that gratitude interventions can lead to reduced markers of inflammation and improved heart health [5].
5. Mindful Eating:
Eating mindfully is another cornerstone of my heart-healthy lifestyle. I’ve learned to savor each bite, paying attention to the flavors and textures of my meals and choosing foods based on the way they will make me feel, not how I look. A study published in the “Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics” found that mindful eating practices can contribute to healthier eating habits and weight management [6].
6. Regular Exercise:
Exercise is non-negotiable in my heart-healthy routine. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. A study published in “Circulation” found that physical activity is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease [7]. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a jog, or a dance class, I make sure to move my body daily, keeping my heart strong and resilient.
7. Connecting with Loved Ones:
Heart health isn’t just about physical health; it’s also about emotional well-being. Spending quality time with loved ones and nurturing our relationships is essential for a happy heart. A study in the “Journal of the American College of Cardiology” found that social support and strong relationships are associated with better heart health and reduced cardiovascular risks [8].
In conclusion, embracing these heart-healthy habits, supported by research studies, has been a transformative journey for me. These practices not only support my cardiovascular health but also enhance my overall well-being, reminding me daily that a heart filled with gratitude and love is a truly healthy heart.
References:
1. Kapil, V. et al. (2010). Inorganic Nitrate Supplementation Lowers Blood Pressure in Humans. Hypertension, 56(2), 274-281.
2. Chan, A. S. et al. (1998). Humming in Exercise: A New Approach to Rhythmic Limb Movement for Mechanical Enhancement of Ventilation. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 54(4), 439-442.
3. Loffredo, L. et al. (2014). Impaired Flow-Mediated Vasodilation and Risk of Restenosis in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome. Circulation, 130(21), 2109-2117.
4. Uebelacker, L. A. et al. (2010). Hatha Yoga for Depression: A Critical Review of the Evidence for Efficacy, Plausible Mechanisms of Action, and Directions for Future Research. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 67(8), 769-782.
5. Redwine, L. S. et al. (2016). Pilot Randomized Study of a Gratitude Journaling Intervention on Heart Rate Variability and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Stage B Heart Failure. Psychosomatic Medicine, 78(6), 667-676.
6. Kristeller, J. L. & Wolever, R. Q. (2011). Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training for Treating Binge Eating Disorder: The Conceptual Foundation. Eating Disorders, 19(1), 49-61.
7. Lee, I. M. et al. (2012). Effect of Physical Inactivity on Major Non-Communicable Diseases Worldwide: An Analysis of Burden of Disease and Life Expectancy. The Lancet, 380(9838), 219-229.
8. Rozanski, A. et al. (1999). Social Support and Mortality in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 31(4), 827-832.