February is Heart Health Month
Heart disease is the number one leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, which means it is SO important that we all focus on keeping ourselves healthy and active to combat the risks that contribute to diminishing heart health. A quick Google search on what you can do to help safeguard yourself and your loved ones from heart disease consistently turns up results encouraging us to eat a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as making tweaks to our daily activity levels by walking more often, choosing stairs over elevators, etc. We all know that smart food choices and increased levels of activity can help improve our overall health, but did you know that our physical health outcomes are tied to our mental and emotional health as well?
Studies have demonstrated that stress can impact our physical health, including our hearts. This makes it so important that we take care of our whole selves. In order to combat the health risks associated with stress, we need to incorporate self-care into our routines. Self-care can look different for everyone, so it takes some exploring to find the things that help us to feel like more balanced and centered individuals. Public Health experts are studying the role that the creative arts can have in a holistic approach to health. Some studies suggest that engaging in creative writing, movement, music, and visual arts can contribute to a whole, healthy self.
We are passionate about helping make art and creativity accessible to everyone at every age. If you find that engaging in creative expression is something that helps you unwind and de-stress, we're here to support you in your endeavors toward whole, healthy lifestyle!