It’s American Heart Month

It’s important to care for your heart all year round. However, as February is officially American Heart Month, this serves to remind us all of the importance of maintaining healthy habits for overall heart health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. These statistics are a cause for concern, but on the flip side, research shows that as little as 60 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as walking briskly can help your heart.

For even more benefits you can increase that time; the important thing is that you stay active. At The Village at Woods Edge, we believe that wellness ought to cater to all aspects of human health - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. That’s why we provide residents with various options.

Why Physical Wellness?

According to the National Health, Blood and Lung Institute, physical activity offers numerous benefits, including:

• Protect your heart (even if you have heart disease): Whether or not you already have heart disease, it’s important to care for your heart. Try to aim for consistency, even dancing for just 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
• Improve blood flow: This will assist in keeping your arteries clear and reducing problems with circulation or blood clots. Therefore you’d be less likely to suffer from a stroke among other complications.
• Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels: High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can eventually lead to stroke and heart attack. Along with keeping active, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet to manage your cholesterol levels and stay healthy.
• Give you more stamina and the ability to cope with stress: Retirement is the time to enjoy as much as possible and having the stamina to do it all is definitely a plus. Additionally, coping with stress in a healthy way will improve your mood and help you sleep better.

Waltz into Wellness

Because you’re more likely to stay consistent by engaging in such a fun activity that you can also choose to do with others. Take dancing, for instance. Dancing is a great cardiovascular exercise that can improve both your physical and mental health. To help you get more active by dancing, here are some ideas:

• Dance in the comfort of your home: The good thing about dancing is that you don’t even have to leave your house to start reaping the rewards. Turn on your favorite songs and invent the moves as you go along.
• Try a dance workout: Dance workouts have become increasingly popular over the years. Whether it’s Zumba or jazzercise, you’d be sure to find a class you’re interested in. If you prefer to stay indoors, you can also find a number of dance workouts online that you can follow.
• Explore activities at the YMCA: Join locals in the greater Franklin area at the James L. Camp Jr. Family YMCA. You’re sure to find an activity that gets you dancing.

Don’t skip a beat at The Village! There are many ways to stay active in our community. To learn more about our wellness programs, contact us today!