A View of the Valley

by Linda Schwanke February was American Heart Month. I received a press release about it but I forgot to share it with you because I am, at times, completely stressed out. I’m sharing it now because the message is still good and honestly I can’t think of anything else to write about this week: February is American Heart Month. After the challenging circumstances that first presented themselves in 2020, it’s more important than ever for everyone to acknowledge the connection of the mind and body; specifically, the connection of the mind and the heart.  In a world where many of people already live with daily stressors, the rise of COVID-19 has raised anxiety and stress for many, which over time, if not treated, can increase the risk of developing heart disease. On the other hand, being diagnosed with heart disease can do a number on people’s mental state, taking them down emotionally overwhelming roads that may lead to depression.  For anyone who is currently battling depression or has been diagnosed with heart disease, it is important to recognize the impact on their physical and mental state. The good news is the heart and the mind have the ability to help each other in a positive way. Taking care of both the body and mind can reduce the likelihood of future heart attacks and strokes, even in those already diagnosed with heart disease.  An article by Johns Hopkins Medicine stated, “Maintaining a positive attitude about treatment and holding the belief that our actions can have a beneficial effect on our own health are very important. A person’s attitude seems to have a powerfully favorable effect on their ability to make behavior and lifestyle changes that are often necessary to reduce the risk of having future heart problems. A person’s attitude also influences the response to treatment.”  Maintaining a positive attitude through a difficult health diagnosis is easier said than done. It’s necessary to recognize that for some it is not always an easy task to reach a better mindset, and will often require patience, work, and help. Everyone who has been diagnosed with heart disease and is struggling emotionally should be having honest conversations with loved ones which can be a great place to start. Chances are, they are working through a lot of emotions themselves, and opening up to one another may relieve some stress for both.  There are actions people can all take to help calm both hearts and our minds, leading to a longer, happier, and more relaxed life. Things like exercise and a balanced diet can be incredible tools when it comes to building a healthy heart and mind, but it is important to remember that all of our bodies need different things. Talk to a doctor about safe and healthy changes that can be made when it comes to diet and exercise.  For some, the thought of making changes may seem a bit overwhelming, and that’s ok. Finding ways to relieve stress should be far from stressful, and sometimes people need to start with something small. Here is a list of simple suggestions that may leave people a little bit more relaxed, as well as one step closer to a healthier heart-mind connection:  -Close your eyes and take a deep breath. -Sit down and listen to calming music.  -Go to a park and take in nature. -Think about the things you are grateful for.  -Pay attention to the flavors in your food.  -Have a kind conversation with yourself.  -Acknowledge your current emotion and allow yourself to feel that way.  -Connect with a supportive loved one. “For those living with heart disease, fighting depression, caring for a loved one, or are looking to take preventative steps for health, remember that it’s ok to seek help. No one has to do it alone.” Remember that – no one has to do it alone. Almost everyone is struggling in one way or another at the moment. Take time to get care of yourself. I’ll do the same. And one day things will get better. Don’t forget that the time changes this coming Sunday, March 14. Spring forward an hour. Not my favorite thing to do but once I get used to it, I do like having the sunshine later each day. Also, I sent letters and emails out to all the candidates running for office in the River Valley area. I’ve heard back from a lot of candidates and am including their stories over the next couple weeks. I haven’t heard back from everyone. I think it’s important that the voters know what elected officials think about local issues, whether they are running opposed or not. If the folks up for election just don’t feel like answering, it’s unfortunate. If you’re a candidate and didn’t get a letter or email, please email me at homenewseditor@newspubinc.com or give me a call at 574-3159 and let me know you didn’t get the questions. I’d like to get them in before the April 6. Stay in touch with me and with each other. My number is 574-3159. Email me at homenewseditor@newspubinc.com or write to me at the Home News, P.O. Box 39, Spring Green WI 53588.  The news deadline is 12 noon on Mondays.  Visit our website at homenewsrv.com Get in touch with Gwen for sports or features at homenewssports@newspubinc.com. If you need a display ad, Dave Pronold can be reached at homenewssales@newspubinc.com or by calling him on his cell at 588-4777. Display ads, or ads that are in boxes, are due by 1 p.m. on Wednesdays. The classified ad deadline is noon Thursdays the week prior to publication for both the Buyer’s Guide and Home News. Classified rates are $13 for the first 10 words, then 30¢ per word for each additional word. Call (608) 767-3655 or email classifieds@newspubinc.com  Legal notices are due by 2 p.m. on Fridays, email them to legals@newspubinc.com Call the NewsPub central office at (608) 767-3655 for subscriptions and all other information Monday through Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon, although afternoon hours can vary. Closed Fridays.