Here are 4 ways to be heart healthy this winter

Feb 11

February is American Heart Month!

As the bustle and excitement of the holiday season wraps up and the new year sets in, we all know February can be a rough month, especially for seniors who may have a hard time getting out and about. Here are four ways to get heart healthy despite the winter weather.

Mable_2 The cold weather and change of temperature also bring on achy bones and arthritis symptoms, making it even more difficult to move. The lack of sunlight and stale air makes most of us in Chicago a little depressed, and for folks who are isolated, those symptoms can be worse.

1. Stay engaged

This is the perfect time of year to put those New Year’s resolutions into action and to get involved with some heart healthy activities.

Whether it’s with a therapy group, a new exercise class or a knitting club, getting out and engaging with others is a great remedy to the winter blues.

2. Try something new

Try something you have never done before; swimming, aerobics, a book club!

Here at H.O.M.E., we have started our Matter of Balance class, an interactive class that keeps residents engaged and thinking of preventative fall measures, as well as learning some exercises.

3. Take a deep breath

This is also a time when things slow dawn, a good time to find a few moments of silence in a quiet place to take a deep breath, and work on meditation, which is good for the body and the mind.

Although the weather is yucky and mucky outside, we can always use this time to reflect, curl up with a good book and some tea and just relax, to give in to being just tired.

4. Try other indoor heart healthy activities: