February is American Heart Month, making it a great time to focus on strong habits that will bring you daily fulfillment and peace of mind. That also means creating the kind of space that helps you breathe easier, sleep better, and feel calmer the moment you walk through the door.
Here are some practical ways to support a healthier heart and happier home life, including tips around stress management, nutrition, and improving your indoor air quality.
Tips for Reducing Stress
Being in a space where you feel comfortable is one of the most essential pieces of a good home. Try these stress-reducing tips to make every day more relaxing:
- Getting a few plants for your space has multiple benefits. Because they release oxygen and absorb bad pollutants, plants can increase your productivity levels and overall mood. Not to mention, they’re super stylish too!
- Adding soft sounds can make your home feel way more peaceful. Whether it’s quiet ambience like a white noise machine, a calming jazz playlist, or smooth nature sounds – they can provide some much-needed comfort amongst the silence.
- Lighting has a surprisingly strong effect on your energy and mood. Maximize daylight by doing a few simple things like opening blinds during the day, keeping windows clean, and arranging your seats so they get more natural light. Then once the sun goes down, you can switch to warm lighting to make evenings feel calmer and more tranquil.
Related: 4 Ways to Brighten Your Home as the Days Get Shorter
Easing into Health Habits
Health-related goals always feel overwhelming at the beginning. Whether you’re looking to go to the gym or eat healthier, taking small steps is the best way to start.
- Pairing a salad or vegetable with dinner will boost your fiber intake. For protein, opt for lean options like fish, nuts, and seeds to build muscle and support healthy blood pressure. But don’t be afraid of fats, because there are plenty of great options! Choose fats that support your heart health like olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
- The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workouts each week (this includes two days of muscle-strengthening exercises). If this feels like too much, you can always break it up over four to five days for an average of 30 minutes of daily exercise.
- For hydration, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate intake is about 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 cups for women. And if that seems unrealistic for your lifestyle, just do what you can. Remember to hydrate between meals, before/during/after your exercises, and whenever you feel thirsty. Carrying a water bottle around is a good way to always have a source of hydration on hand!
Ways to Improve Your Home’s Insulation
When your home has drafts, hot spots, and inconsistent temperatures, it’s hard to truly feel relaxed. These tips will give you a warmer space in the winter and help cool things down in the summertime:
- Carpets and wall tapestries act as great insulators by preventing heat from escaping your home. If you have cold hardwood floors, adding thicker materials like wool rugs can make rooms feel warmer and more comfortable.
- Thermal curtains combine several layers of thick fabric and heavy insulation to trap air behind the curtain. This essentially creates a barrier between the outside weather and your home. However, it’s often a short-term solution for bigger issues.
- If you tried the first two options and still feel unsatisfied, it’s probably best to check for a long-term fix. Windows account for approximately 25-30% of your home’s heating and cooling costs, so there’s a good chance your openings aren’t sealed like they should be. As a full-time shielding system against the hot and cold air, energy-efficient windows are one of the best ways to keep your home nice and cozy throughout every season.
Time for a Change?
A healthier heart and home are built on the small choices we make each and every day. If you’re ready to improve your comfort, indoor air quality, and year-round insulation, the team at Renewal by Andersen can help you explore the best options to fit your home and your lifestyle.