Editor, The Times:
It’s almost February and we are currently getting our team of volunteers ready for Heart and Stroke Month 2018.
We can always use you and your friends’ help. The volunteers at Buy-Low Foods are always having fun. Laughing is a great stress reducer.
Stress is a contributing factor in heart disease. Sudden stress increases your short-term risk of heart attack; when it’s prolonged it can raise your blood pressure and cholesterol levels – both risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
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We all have stress – managing it is the key. Here are some important factors to help reduce stress.
• Making sure you get enough sleep. Tips to help get the right amount of sleep include setting a sleep schedule, ensuring your bedroom is dark and quiet, and finding ways to relax your mind such as a bedtime ritual or meditation.
• Keep moving. Getting physical is one of the best ways to manage stress levels. Exercise will improve your mental health and tire you out in a healthy way, which in turn can improve your ability to sleep and recharge. Try biking, running or taking a quick walk. All are great ways to cope with stress.
• Heavy drinking and binge drinking can raise your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke; the same is true of smoking. Just be aware and try to manage them.
• If stress typically makes you reach for chocolate or French fries, you’re more likely to feel worse than better. Plus, overeating can lead to extra pounds as well as increased cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Try eating a healthy diet made up mostly of whole or natural foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains and proteins will promote mental and physical wellbeing.
• If you are feeling stress, call on members of your support network. Though it may feel difficult to open up about what’s stressing you, talking to family, friends or coworkers can help you feel better. You will realize you’re not coping alone.
Helping others reduces stress as well. When you think about helping others you’re simply not thinking as much about yourself and your problems.
If you would like to volunteer, please contact me at 250-674-6806. Ask a friend to volunteer with you, if you like.
Wendy Grimm
Clearwater team captain
Heart and Stroke
Foundation