Did you know that massage can help stimulate the circulation of blood and lymph fluid. Lymph is the fluid which helps carry toxins to the circulatory system.
When someone suffers from heart disease, typically the heart has to work harder to pump blood, and thereby, oxygen, to the rest of the body. That can mean that the body can become oxygen deficient – thereby potentially causing a host of problems. However, when someone who has heart issues receives massage – with light to medium pressure – the action of the hands of the therapist on the person work as an external pump, helping to circulate the blood and lymph. This is very beneficial, not just physically, but also mentally, as it helps to decrease stress.
So how about preventing it in the first place…
Eat Healthy: Choose foods low in saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium.
Eat: Fiber rich foods, fish at least twice a week, nuts and seeds, and lean cut meats (but eat red meat sparingly).
Exercise: 4-5 days a week, do a combo or cardio (run, walk, cross country ski), and strength training (2 times a week). As an added perk if you start doing this now you will be in excellent shape come ski season!
Avoid Tobacco Use: This is a significant risk factor for developing heart disease. It damages the blood vessels and narrows the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack.
Get Plenty of Sleep: 7-9 hours each night, not enough sleep can lead to higher risks of high blood pressure, obesity, heart attacks, and depression.
Get Regular Screenings: It is important to be tested for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
Let’s all make a commitment to take care of ourselves this coming winter season!