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11 | The IFP -H alton H ills | T hursday,F ebruary 25,2021 theifp.ca According to Health Canada, as many as 11 million Canadians are experiencing high stress levels in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since February is Heart Month, here's a look at the impact of stress on heart health and what you can do to manage it. HOW STRESS AFFECTS YOUR HEART Sudden intense stress causes a spike in heart rate and blood pressure, which can trigger a heart attack, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or risk factors for heart disease. While the effects aren't as immediate, chronic stress can also put a strain on your heart, elevate your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease. Fortunately, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, nearly 80 per cent of premature heart disease and stroke cases can be prevented by adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including proper stress management. HEALTHY WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS Many people smoke, drink alcohol or eat junk food as a way to cope with stress. Unfortunately, these behaviours have a negative effect on your heart health. Here are some healthy ways to lower your stress level: • Get seven to nine hours of sleep every night • Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day • Spend time with friends and family members • Practise yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises • Find creative outlets such as journaling or painting • Regularly visit parks, beaches, hiking trails and other natural settings • Take breaks from using social media • Speak with a mental health professional For more information about how to reduce your risk of heart disease, visit heartandstroke.ca. Heart health: the importance of stress management Take your health to heart! • Truck Accessories • Upholstery • Heavy Equipment Glass •Window Tinting We handle all insurance work. 354 Guelph Street, Georgetown 905-873-1655 905-877-CARE (2273) Located inside Georgetown Marketplace Mall georgetowndental.comProudly Serving Georgetown Since 1994. Family & Cosmetic Dentistry New Patients & Emergencies Welcome! Asleep Dentistry Available, Teeth Whitening Marketplace Dental centre Georgetown Marketplace Mall The reliable choice for all of your legal needs GEORGETOWN 8 Guelph Street | 905.452.7400 Brampton Office (Main) 350 Rutherford Road S., Suite 320 | 905.452.7400 CALEDON EAST 15955 Airport Road, Suite 201 | 905.584.4545 www.lhlaw.ca OFFICE LOCATIONS Proud member of Proud Supporter of the Georgetown Hospital A Full Service Firm, Including Civil Litigation, Family Law, Employment, Real Estate, Corporate Law, and Wills & Estates. Empowering Clients. Enriching the Community. 519-833-9180 Toll free 1-877-232-0229 Pump and Servicing • Pressure Line Flushing Lic. by the M.O.E. PUMPINGOF • HOLDING TANKS • SEPTIC TANKS • AEROBIC TANKS ED PEAVOY SEPTIC SERVICE INC. OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE ESA #7003060 DEKER eLeCTRIC ltd. 905-702-0515 Visit our website! www.dekerelectric.ca