SearchThe intentions have been set, the calendars filled, and the excitement of “new year, new habits” may be settling into something more real. January is where we set our intentions. February is where we follow through. Like the groundhog peeking out to see which side of the shadow we are on, this month gives us a moment to pause and reflect. Where do we want to stand, and how do we want to show up for ourselves? With winter still lingering, this month becomes less about perfection and more about consistency, resilience, and choosing progress, one day at a time.
February is recognized nationwide as American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health, prevention, and the everyday choices that support a strong heart. While February is often associated with love and connection, it also offers an opportunity to reflect on the health of our hearts in every sense of the word. When we talk about heart health, we are talking about more than just numbers and metrics, though those matter too. Our hearts are connected to how we move, how we manage stress, how we connect with others, and how supported we feel, whether at work, at home, or beyond.
Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States, and high blood pressure plays a big role in that. The tricky part is that high blood pressure often does not come with obvious warning signs. Many people feel fine until they do not. We also know that some communities carry a heavier burden. Black adults and American Indian and Alaska Native communities are affected at higher rates, which makes awareness and prevention even more important.
The good news is this: risk is not the same thing as destiny. Family history matters, but it does not mean something is guaranteed to happen. Paying attention early, checking your numbers, taking medication as prescribed, moving your body, managing stress, and staying connected to care can make a real difference over time.
What this tells us is something simple but powerful: heart health is built over time.
It is not one perfect workout.
It is not one healthy meal.
It is not one screening appointment.
It is the repetition of small, protective choices made day after day.
It is taking medication as prescribed.
It is checking your blood pressure even when you feel fine.
It is scheduling the follow up appointment.
It is managing stress before it manages you.
It is knowing your family history and responding to it with informed action and support.
Heart disease often develops gradually. Prevention does too. The same way risk accumulates over time, protection accumulates over time. Small, steady actions compound. Consistency becomes habit. Habit becomes protection.
This month, we invite you to reflect on what heart health and well-being look like for you. Whether that means scheduling a screening, checking your blood pressure, taking a short walk, preparing a heart healthy meal, reaching out to your care team, or simply listening to what your body needs, every step counts.
Long term health is built through steady action, and February offers a powerful moment to recommit, reset, and move forward with intention.