As we have been spending more time at home – both leisure and work time – during the pandemic, there’s a good chance that many of us may spend too much time sitting! The good news is that there are some easy ways to combat the sedentary lifestyle that can lead to a greater risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and other conditions, and make your day more active:

1. Stand up to take phone calls.
2. Hold standing meetings.
3. Hold walking meetings.
4. Set a timer to remind you to stand up and stretch or take a walk every hour.
5. Take a 30-minute walk during your lunch hour.
6. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
7. Park a little farther away from the door when going to the store.
8. Consider walking or biking places, if feasible.

The easiest way to start is to pick one or two of these and add them to your daily routine. Then when you’ve turned your new behaviors into a habit, add another. Over time, small changes made today can add up to big results when it comes to your health every day.

Heart health is about more than just your heart. Blood pressure, cholesterol, family history and other factors all play important roles in keeping your heart strong. If you have questions about your heart health but aren’t quite sure where to begin, start with a heart health assessment and learn more about any risks you may have for heart-related conditions. Your journey to a stronger heart starts here.

TAKE A HEART HEALTH ASSESSMENT

If you would like to speak to a provider about your heart health, Willamette Valley Medical Center can help. Click the button below to be directed to our "Find A Doctor" tool and get connected to the care you're looking for.

FIND A DOCTOR

In the event of a heart-related emergency, call 9-1-1. Minutes matter, and acting quickly may save a life, including your own.