HEART HEALTH From Dr. Michael J. Barber Strata Med Medical Director As a Cardiologist, I recognize we all live in a world that’s seemingly switched on all the time providing little space to relax and just breathe. Work, family obligations, financial pressures, and the general fast pace of life cause many of us to experience anxiety and stress resulting in a mind that races, that’s unsettled, restless and uncontrollable. All that stress, obviously, is bad for the body and impacts everything including our cardiovascular system contributing to: • • • • • •
High blood pressure Irregular heart rhythms Damage to your arteries Higher cholesterol levels Coronary artery disease or atherosclerosis, and A weakened immune system
While there are many anti-anxiety medications available, they’re often perceived as crutches to help get through the day and most come with side effects. Natural approaches such as meditation, acupuncture and relaxation techniques help calm the mind, focus the breath, allow acknowledgment of the good things in our lives and the world, and help us let go of negative thoughts. Meditation and acupuncture are probably the most common and effective natural techniques used to manage the causes of cardiovascular disease and potentially lower the risks of future complications.
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D r. M i ch a el J . B a r b e r