National Heart Month: Caring for the Heart That Carries You

February is National Heart Month—a time set aside to raise awareness about heart health and remind us just how vital this small but powerful organ truly is.

Your heart works tirelessly, day and night, pumping life through your body. Caring for it isn’t about perfection or extreme changes; it’s about consistent, intentional habits that support your overall well-being.

The Habits that Count

When we think about heart health, we often jump straight to food and exercise—and those absolutely matter. Nourishing your body with balanced meals that include protein, fiber, healthy fats, and carbohydrates helps support healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and energy. Movement also plays a key role. You don’t need intense, daily workouts to benefit your heart. Regular walking, strength training, and moderate cardio can strengthen your heart muscle and improve circulation in a sustainable way.

But heart health goes beyond physical habits alone.

Sleep, stress management, and emotional well-being are deeply connected to cardiovascular health. Chronic stress and lack of rest can place extra strain on the heart over time. Prioritizing quality sleep, slowing down when needed, and allowing space to breathe and reset are not luxuries—they are necessities for long-term health.

Small Change = Major Difference

When we treat our bodies with care and respect, we honor the life we’ve been given.

This National Heart Month, instead of overwhelming yourself with drastic changes, choose one or two simple habits you can maintain. Here are some ideas:

• Prioritize consistent sleep by aiming for 7–9 hours each night

• Eat regular, balanced meals instead of skipping or under-eating

• Include lean protein, fiber-rich foods, and healthy fats at most meals

• Move your body daily, even if it’s just a walk or light strength training

• Manage stress through prayer, deep breathing, journaling, or quiet time

• Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day

• Strength train 2–3 times per week to support heart and metabolic health

• Pay attention to recovery (rest days are part of heart health, too!)

• Schedule regular health checkups and know your blood pressure numbers

Your heart has carried you through every season of life so far. Let this month be a reminder to care for it with intention, grace, and consistency—not just in February, but all year long.

I hope this has served you well!

Amber Dabney Smith

Your Hope Dealer