A red heart-shaped bowl filled with glistening pomegranate seeds sits on a wooden surface. Some seeds are scattered across the surface around the bowl, adding a touch of vibrant red color to the natural wood's warm tones.

Live Fully

How to Show Your Heart a Little Love This February

February is American Heart Month, and it’s a perfect time to show a little love to your own health.

You probably already know the basics of heart health: eat right, exercise, don’t smoke. Sure, those are all great tips, but here are a few you may not already know about.

Hug a dog.
Studies show that dog owners have a 21% reduction in the risk of death from heart disease. Dogs reduce feelings of loneliness, lower stress, help with depression, provide unconditional love, and increase exercise (all those walks!). Beyond that, hugging a dog gives you a jolt of oxytocin—affectionately known as the “cuddle hormone”. What CAN’T dogs do, honestly?

Don’t forget the dark chocolate and red wine.
These two Valentine’s Day staples contain antioxidants shown to improve good cholesterol, lower bad cholesterol, and improve blood clotting function. Just remember to keep them in moderation and your heart will go on (thanks, Celine).

Also, try these recipes for a fix that’s more heart-healthy and indulgent than any box of chocolates.

Eat some fat (healthy fat, that is).
Despite what we’ve been told, not all fats are bad. Salmon is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids which help lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Walnuts are packed with fiber which lowers total cholesterol. Avocados contain monosaturated fats which do all sorts of wonderful things to guard against heart disease. So go ahead and guacamole to your heart’s content.

Netflix and chill.
We’re not talking about THAT kind of chill (although that’s great for your heart too). We mean that taking a moment to do nothing actually does a whole lot for your cardiovascular health. The effects of consistent mediation are great for nearly every aspect of your overall health, especially for reducing stress and blood pressure.

But. If you’re still hung up on that OTHER type of heart exercise synonymous with Valentine’s Day, here are a few ways to spark the fire with three foods to rev up romance.

Related Articles

  • A woman in a blue flannel shirt and vest walks in a park on a sunny day, smiling. She holds a leash attached to a small, dark-colored dog. The background is filled with green trees and grass.

    National Walking Day

    Live Fully

    March 19, 2025

    It’s time to put down those digital devices, turn on some feel-good music and get active! Now more than ever, we need to focus on optimizing our health amid the...

    Read More
  • A black bag hangs on a wooden wall hook next to a glass door. The bag holds a rolled-up teal yoga mat, a blue-and-white striped towel, and a container of organic protein powder. The scene suggests a ready-to-go kit for a yoga session or gym workout.

    Warmer Weather and Better Workouts - How to get the most of your spring training

    Gain Strength

    March 15, 2025

    The long days of summer are coming in hot and it’s time to start training for a full activity load. There are a handful of ways to get in better...

    Read More
  • A young woman lies on grass with her eyes closed, smiling joyfully. She is surrounded by blooming daisies, wearing a floral dress. The background features trees and soft sunlight filtering through, creating a serene and happy atmosphere.

    How to Use Spring Cleaning for More Than Just Clutter

    Live Fully

    March 15, 2025

    Spring cleaning can range from your house, fridge or even from fitness to productivity, it’s the perfect opportunity to re-organize and re-energize your entire life.

    Read More
  • Man drinking water with B corp logo next to him

    B A Force for Good: Orgain Earns B Corp™ Certification

    March 15, 2025

    We’re proud to announce that Orgain has earned its B Corp™ certification, joining a growing movement of like-minded businesses balancing purpose and profit to positively impact the planet and the...

    Read More