Decrease Depression and Risk of Heart Disease in ONE Fell Swoop!!

Hey there!!

I hope your summer is going absolutely fabulously!!  I'm guessing you have more time for the things that create rapid change and transformation in your life, things such as spending time in nature, drinking more water, enjoying time with family and friends, and eating fresh organic fruits and vegetables.

I love researching ways to help people to heal naturally, using our own resources available at any moment as well as help from the bounty that the Earth has provided in the form of herbs, fruits, vegetables and whole foods.  Did you know that one thing you can add into your daily regimen can help to prevent depression and lessen symptoms if you've already been diagnosed?  This one thing can also decrease your risk of heart attack later in life.  Guess what it is??

If you said physical activity, then you are correct!!  A recent study showed that those with higher cardiovascular fitness, especially in midlife, was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular death, especially in those diagnosed with depression.  In addition, we have known from prior studies that a moderate amount of physical exercise was just as good as major anti-depressants for alleviating symptoms of mild depression.

Now is a wonderful time to implement a daily ritual of self-care that includes physical activity.  The habits you form now, especially when it's nice outside, motivation is high, and Vitamin D levels are at their highest will go a LONG way to cultivating an absolutely fit body AND mind!!  If you aren't doing anything at all, then start with a walk.  Try a yoga class.  Get up a half hour earlier if you have to! No excuses...just do something!  

Your heart and your brain/mind will thank you :-)

Reference:   Willis BL, Leonard D, Barlow CE, Martin SB, DeFina LF, Trivedi MH. Association of Midlife Cardiorespiratory Fitness With Incident Depression and Cardiovascular Death After Depression in Later Life. JAMA Psychiatry.Published online June 27, 2018. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2018.1467