Prevention (Page 38)

A brisk walk with your furry friend is good for both of you, and it can help lift your spirits. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] Make it a part of your daily routine. If you don’t have a dog, consider walking your neighbor’s dog. Volunteering to walk dogs…

If you work a desk job, you know the feeling: You get off work on a cold, dark winter evening, and the last thing you feel like doing is going to the gym. But you sit down most of the day. And we all know — if you don’t exercise,…

Park your car at the back of the parking lot instead of driving around looking for a close-in spot. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] You’ll not only burn more calories, you’ll probably actually save time. Or do you really even need to drive? Maybe the store is close…

Laugh every day. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] Laughter reduces stress and improves your heart health. Need to get your laugh on? See some comedy at one of these Charlottesville venues: Bent Theatre Live Arts

Make sure that your diet is rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber, and low in saturated fats. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] Divide your plate at each meal: half vegetables, ¼ high-quality protein (like legumes) and ¼ fish or lean meat. Find out more about the USDA's food…

Most of us get together with friends or go on dates for activities that center on eating and food. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] Make it a point to try something else instead – when was the last time you swung on a swing? Rode bikes or went…

Your heart needs rest, too! Though often overlooked, sleep supports and promotes all your body’s functions. It’s even important for weight-loss. Yet making sure you get right amount and the right kind can be challenging. Try one of these for a good night’s rest: Restorative yoga: One or two relaxing…

Pick one day every week that you’ll eat fish, either grilled or baked. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] Fish, especially salmon, is a great source of protein and heart-healthy omega-3s. You can also find heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids in tuna, halibut, herring and mackerel.

Treat yourself to a glass of red wine with some dark chocolate. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] Try to get chocolate with 55% or higher cacao. Wine and chocolate are a great source of antioxidants. Just don’t go overboard and indulge too much.

When you get home from work, put on your workout clothes before you sit down to relax. [caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignright" width="263"] Celebrating Heart Month[/caption] You're more likely to be active, whether it’s leaving to go to the gym, working out at home or going outside for a bike ride, if…