February is American Heart Month, the perfect time to spend extra time caring for your heart health. Heart disease is currently the number one leading cause of death in the U.S., and, in most cases, it is largely preventable. American Heart Month is all about combatting heart disease and creating a heart-healthy life.
This February, celebrate your heart by choosing activities and self-care that contribute to your overall well-being. If you need a little inspiration, try out a few of the following heart-healthy ideas, courtesy of AAA Discounts & Rewards.
Try a New Activity
The American Heart Association recommends you get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity weekly. While adding exercise to your weekly routine might sound daunting initially, it doesn’t need to be.
Instead of forcing yourself to go to the gym or take up a sport you don’t enjoy, try a new activity that sounds fun. It is easier to engage in movement if you enjoy it consistently!
For example, you might try out a yoga class, which is good for your body and mind. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn to dance. Moving to music can be an excellent way to destress and keep your heart healthy. Get creative and choose something that brings you joy as you move. Even something as simple as setting out on a short walk each day can make a big difference.
Don’t forget to inspire your new activity with some new exercise gear. Use your AAA discount to snag a Galaxy Watch5 to help you track your fitness goals and a pair of Galaxy Buds2 Pro from Samsung to bring your favorite tunes or podcasts with you on the go. Grab a pair of comfortable shoes to make walking more enjoyable, or purchase a pair of fun new leggings to help you feel your best when you go to the gym. Use your AAA Reebok Outlet discount to make your purchase affordable.
Treat Yourself with Kindness
While a lot of heart health advice revolves around eating heart-healthy food and staying active — both of which are great things — caring for your heart also means caring for your mental well-being. The body and mind are intrinsically tied together, and when you lower your stress, you help contribute to a healthier heart.
This heart health month, show yourself some extra care. Need some ideas? Try these on for size:
- Send yourself some flowers from 1-800-Flowers.com.
- Schedule your date night at Hard Rock Cafe or at one of the many Landry’s Restaurants. Or, have date night at home. Get one of the Wellness Packs from Landry’s Kitchen or find other dinner options at Stock Yards and Vital Choice.
- Purchase AAA discount tickets through the AAA Tickets program to save on shows, movies and more.
- Grab a new pair of sunglasses at LensCrafters to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays, and give you a fresh new look.
Expand Your Focus to Your Whole Health
As you focus on being heart-healthy this February, don’t forget to focus on your whole health. Make sure you care for every part of your body, from your head to your toes. Think about how you can help make your body and mind as healthy as possible — the best way to celebrate heart health month.