Did you know that February is American Heart Month? Several of my family members suffered and ultimately died, far too early in life, suddenly from cardiovascular disease. That puts me at risk.
This post is sponsored by Staples. All opinions are 100% my own.
“Cardiovascular disease (CVD)—including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure—is the number 1 killer of women and men in the United States.” {source: cdc.gov)
Personally, I have always been relatively active and healthy throughout my life. As a mom to three young boys, like many of you, I have placed myself on the back burner. My reason is plain and simple: I have been in “survivor” mode for the past 6 years. Well, guess what? That isn’t sustainable. With the new year, I made a commitment to myself. I will reclaim myself, my body, my energy, and my well being. So, what is my plan?
“CVD is a leading cause of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities.” {source: cdc.gov}
American Heart Month
My plan always has to involve my children. That is just the way it is, folks. So, we’ll begin with a few heart crafts to start the conversation, then move into life sciences with heart learning. Finally, we’ll put it into action by being active and staying healthy. February is a great time to begin those conversations as the month is full of love celebrating Valentine’s Day with friends and partners.
Start with Heart Crafts
To begin the conversation about the heart as a symbol and as an organ, I like to do simple crafty activities with my sons. Akin to going for a hike, the conversation seems to flow a bit more naturally, which is important. Here are a few activities to get you started:
- Foil Heart (see above)
- Torn Paper Heart
- Hearts & Buttons
- Heart Beans Mosaic
- Heart Lacing
Learn about the Heart
Gentle Revolution offers wonderful learning tools called Bit of Intelligence Cards. The Human Heart, in this example, is an amazing resource full of lots of detail visually and factually (on the back of the cards). The child can trace the object and label it, too!
Commit to Taking Care of Myself
Getting time to take care of my body is a challenge. I am determined to make taking care of myself a priority. So, I am working toward creating a home gym of sorts that includes a yoga ball, yoga (using Gaiamtv.com), stretch bands, a balance board, and a jump rope. Plus some core work using videos I found on Youtube! I commit to take care of myself at least once of week this month. I will share my experiences with you on twitter and instagram. Go easy on me!
There is my 3 part plan of action for American Heart Month. Will you join me? Use the hashtag #GetOutAndGo on twitter and instagram. Let me know your plan!
Thanks for reading!
Marnie