February marks American Heart Month, an annual period to shine the spotlight on heart disease, risk factors, research, prevention tips and more. To mark the 58th annual event, the American Heart Association (AHA) is reinforcing the importance of physical and mental well-being after two difficult years of the pandemic.
The History of American Heart Month
American Heart Month was established by President Lyndon B. Johnson, who had personally suffered a heart attack, in 1964. Since then, U.S. presidents have designed February as American Heart Month every year.
Taking Control of Heart Health
This year, the AHA is urging all Americans to “reclaim your rhythm.” Many of us adopted unhealthy coping mechanisms during the pandemic, so consider February a time to reset and find new heart-healthy patterns.
The AHA has a few suggestions for improving heart health:
- Eating healthy
- Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
- Moving your body 150 minutes per week (or as much as you can!)
- Not smoking
- Getting good sleep
- Finding ways to relieve and manage stress
Reclaim Your Rhythm Through CPR Training
Protect the hearts of those around you by learning the rhythm of hands-only CPR. Did you know that about 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the home? Or that CPR can double or triple the odds of survival, especially if performed immediately? Improve your odds by signing up for a CPR certification course with HeartCert. Virtual CPR training options are available!
HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV and more, in Minnesota and throughout the United States.
HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid,, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.
We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.