Focusing on Heart Health Month, it is a great time to focus on simple ways to protect your heart—starting with reducing stress and making mindful choices. At The Geneva Suites, we know that heart health isn’t just about diet and exercise—it’s also about managing daily stress, getting quality rest, and being mindful of habits like smoking and drinking that can strain your heart.
The best news? Small lifestyle changes can lead to big improvements in heart health. Let’s explore how reducing stress, reducing some bad habits, and creating healthy daily routine can keep your heart strong.
Prioritizing Rest & Reducing Harmful Habits for a Stronger Heart
Manage Stress & Sleep Well
Stress isn’t just a mental burden—it has a direct impact on heart health. When we experience long-term stress, our body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase blood pressure, raise heart rate, and contribute to inflammation. Over time, chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and a higher risk of heart disease.
That’s why it’s essential to find ways to unwind and allow your heart to rest. Even small daily habits can make a difference. Here are some simple ways to reduce stress and promote relaxation:
✔ Deep Breathing & Meditation – Just a few minutes of slow, mindful breathing can lower blood pressure and promote relaxation. Techniques like box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and repeat) can help calm the nervous system.
✔ Engaging in Hobbies – Doing something enjoyable, whether it’s crafting, gardening, playing music, or puzzles, helps the mind focus on something positive and reduces stress levels.
✔ Listening to Music or Reading – Music therapy has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, while reading can provide a sense of calm and escape.
✔ Creating a Restful Nighttime Routine – Lack of sleep increases heart strain and can contribute to high blood pressure. Sticking to a regular bedtime, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a peaceful environment helps support a healthy heart and better overall well-being.
At The Geneva Suites, we understand the importance of stress management and quality sleep in maintaining heart health. Our residents enjoy personalized schedules, a peaceful home-like environment, and structured routines that promote relaxation and restful sleep.
Cut Back on Smoking & Excess Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are two of the biggest preventable risk factors for heart disease. Both contribute to high blood pressure, increased heart rate, reduced oxygen levels, and hardened arteries—putting a heavy strain on the cardiovascular system.
Why Smoking is Harmful to Your Heart:
•Reduces oxygen flow, forcing the heart to work harder.
•Increases blood pressure and causes plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to heart disease.
•Raises the risk of stroke and heart attack.
How Alcohol Affects Heart Health:
•Excessive drinking can raise blood pressure and cause irregular heart rhythms.
•Alcohol is high in empty calories, which can contribute to weight gain and impact overall health.
•Heavy drinking may weaken the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently.
If quitting smoking or cutting back on alcohol is a challenge, seeking support from a doctor, counselor, or support group can be a helpful first step. Even small reductions can lead to big improvements in heart health over time.
At The Geneva Suites, we encourage a holistic approach to heart health, focusing on healthy habits, relaxation, and providing an environment that supports well-being and longevity. Our goal is to help residents feel their best, reduce stress, and live heart-healthy lives with comfort and ease.