Put yourself at the top of your list and help beat the #1 killer of women—heart disease and stroke—with these healthy habits.

1.       Treat Your Body Well

Most of us think we’re “treating” ourselves if we unwrap a chocolate bar or swing by the drive thru. Instead, think of eating whole-grain foods, fruits and veggies, beans, lentils, tofu, and lower-fat meat and dairy as a better way to “treat” your body—with fibre and essential vitamins and minerals it needs to work well. That also means choosing foods that are lower in sodium, sugar, saturated and trans fats.

 2.       Add Years To Your Life

Don’t wait for a health scare to commit to fitness. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week—10-minute bursts are fine!—to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes by 30 per cent. Find something you enjoy: when you like an activity, doing it won’t feel like a chore. If you’re among the 29 per cent of Canadians who watch TV for 15 or more hours per week, try squats and lunges during your favorite show, and check out the 10-minute workout at www.heartandstroke.com .

I am at the GYM three times a week from 6-7:30 (a.m.) and on days not at the GYM I am doing 3-4 mile power walks. It is so good for our bodies, mind and soul to exercise and especially as we get older. I will keep up with fitness as long as I am able and I pray to God it is for a long, long time. I love Fitness!!  I am thankful that I have the stamina to enjoy it all.

 3.       Manage Your “Bad” Stress

Good stress can lead you forward in life. Bad stress can steal your sunshine and endanger your health. Make sure your coping strategies will help you in the long run. Taking care of yourself with healthy behaviors, such as jogging or brisk walking to clear your head, can help you relax. Or use your head: brainstorming solutions can spark action when a situation feels overwhelming. You can also manage stress through satisfying activities such as volunteering, nurturing hobbies or having fun with friends.

Some Kills (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

 4.       Quit Smoking—Seriously

The benefits are compelling: within two days, your sense of smell and taste begin to improve and your chances of having a heart attack decrease. Then, your breathing gets better. Within a year, your risk of heart disease or stroke is half that of a smoker. Quitting is hard—but c’mon, you’re worth it! Don’t be shy about asking for help from doctors, family, friends or quit-smoking programs at www.heartandstroke.com or Health Canada’s www.gosmokefree.ca .

~Article taken from Chatelaine Magazine.~

I am not proud to tell you that I was a “smoker”. I am proud to say I am a “non-smoker”. I quit in 2003 and did not smoke many cigarettes. It doesn’t matter how many one smokes it is a horrible habit.  Smoking is one of my biggest regrets! I never gained any weight so I totally do not believe that you get heavy when you quit smoking.  if you are trying to ‘quit smoking’ I am sending you strong vibes that you do it.