WEYBURN - February is the month of love with the annual celebration of Valentine’s Day on the 14th. It’s a time to show others that we love and cherish them.
Whether it’s our spouse, partner, children, friends or pets, everyone loves to be remembered with a card, a treat or gift. Homemade goodies are a favourite around my house.
One of the best gifts we can give our loved ones is our time. A visit, a phone call or a text might just make their day.
February is also heart month and one of the best gifts we can give ourselves is looking after our hearts.
It’s a time to focus on our cardiovascular health and how we can reduce risk factors.
According to Health Canada, heart disease affects approximately 2.4 million Canadian adults, and is the second leading cause of death in Canada.
There are times in our lives when we unexpectedly receive a wake up call to make changes to our day-to-day lives. Mine came at age 50, with a diagnosis of type 2 Diabetes. Lifestyle changes were necessary.
With February being the coldest month, or so it seems, we tend to stay indoors, become less active and may indulge in a few more carbs to insulate ourselves against the cold.
Some of the more obvious lifestyle choices to make to reduce the risk of heart disease are to quit smoking, eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep and to move every day, even if it’s just a walk around the block.
Weyburn has some great indoor options for exercise during the winter.
Reducing the amount of stress in our lives can also help. Take time to read, to rest and to enjoy life.
Unbusy yourself. Find what relaxes you and do it. Make one small change in your life. It could make all the difference.
Give yourself that gift.
Happy heart month!
