As you get older, heart disease can become one of the greatest threats to your health. However, research conducted at the University of Denmark shows that you can significantly reduce your risk of dying from cardiovascular issues by simply adopting a positive attitude and engaging in regular exercise.
In a five-year study analyzing 600 individuals with coronary artery disease, the researchers discovered that people with the most positive attitudes were more likely to exercise and live longer. On the other hand, getting involved in physical activity was also found to improve one’s outlook on life, ultimately leading to a longer and healthier existence. By the end of the study, it was shown that participants with upbeat attitudes experienced a 42 percent lower likelihood of dying while taking part in the study, and that having a positive attitude towards life and engaging in exercise also reduced the risk of hospitalizations due to heart-related problems.
Susanne S. Pedersen, researcher and teacher of cardiac psychology, suggests that not only should cardiac rehabilitation focus on increasing positive attitudes, but it should also emphasize the importance of regular exercise, as it ties in with both optimism and better health.
It is no surprise that exercise and attitude are interconnected, as the endorphins released during physical activity contribute to a better mood. This, in turn, motivates you to want to exercise more, regardless of your age. Furthermore, research has shown that exercise can help “reorganize” your brain, making it more resistant to stress and boosting your overall sense of well-being.
While a visit to your cardiologist might result in a prescription designed to treat your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, or other heart-related symptoms, it is important to remember that no medication can deliver the same benefits as daily exercise and maintaining a positive state of mind.
Walking for a healthier heart
One of the easiest and most beneficial forms of exercise that can have a profound impact on your heart health is walking. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that walking provided the same benefits to your arteries as more strenuous forms of exercise. Both types of activity can reduce your risk of heart problems by 30 to 40%.
In the study, various forms of walking were tested, such as hiking, walking outdoors, and walking on a golf course. The results showed that you don’t need to run mile after mile or engage in high-intensity workouts to improve your arteries’ health and increase your overall well-being. Instead, taking a brisk walk daily can yield these health benefits.
By incorporating regular exercise, specifically walking, into your daily routine and maintaining a positive attitude towards your life and health, you can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. These basic measures are not only easily accessible to most people but are also free of side effects, making them a powerful tool in your fight against heart disease and leading you to not only a longer life but also a healthier one.
