MyChart
Today's Heart Tip: Give Some Hugs
A hug or two a day (try more!) can lower the risk of heart disease, combat stress and fatigue, boost the immune system, fight infections, and ease depression. Ten seconds of hugging can lower blood pressure, increase levels of feel-good hormones such as oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine, and decrease levels of stress chemicals such as cortisol. Plus, doesn't it just feel so good?
Sandy's heart advice: “When thinking of a healthy heart, hugs are always good. You can hug your family, you can hug your friends and you can hug your pets! You can also provide a ‘hug’ to someone you’ve never met by making a charitable contribution to St. Luke’s Women’s Heart Advantage Fund. This fund provides complimentary heart health screenings to underserved women. By ‘hugging’ this fund, you will provide a much needed screening that just might save a life. To learn more, call (208) 381-4008 or donate now."
February is Heart Month, so kick start your best year yet with 28 days of heart health. Every day in February St. Luke’s will send a heart health tip directly to your email. It’s easy to subscribe!
We’re also offering Free Heart Seminars throughout the month. Click here to find one in your area.
About The Author
Anna Fritz is a writer and editor with St. Luke’s Communications and Marketing.
