Heart Health and Happiness: The Mind-Body Connection

February is not just about love; it’s also about your literal heart—the one keeping you alive and thriving. While we often focus on the physical ways to keep our hearts healthy (eat well, exercise, avoid too much Netflix), we often overlook the emotional component.

Stress, loneliness, and unresolved emotions can weigh heavily on your heart. Studies show that chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can lead to high blood pressure and other heart problems. But here’s the silver lining: happiness and emotional well-being are as vital as a good diet.

Mindfulness, gratitude, and even laughter are powerful medicine for your heart. So is connection—spending quality time with loved ones or simply making time to check in with yourself. This February, don’t just think of your heart as an organ; see it as the epicenter of your emotional and physical health.

Actionable Takeaway: Try a daily gratitude practice. Each evening, write down three things that made your heart smile that day.