Come to church and get healthy - inside & out!

Our Health Ministry is provided by a vital, active group of members who care about our physical health, as well as our spiritual health, and strive to help us take better care of ourselves. Many services are provided through this group:

Monthly Blood Pressure Screenings; Sunday Lunch 'n Learn programs presented by guest speakers on various health topics; and monthly Heartline newsletter articles that keep us up to date on the latest health issues.

Dear Family and Friends,

In February we recognize Valentine's Day and American Heart Month. I would like to take this time to reflect upon some heart health information since coronary heart disease is still America's #1 killer.

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense- where no one doubts what is happening. But other attacks may start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Unfortunately, the most common response is denial, so it's important to be educated about heart attack warning sings. Here are signs from the American Heart Association that can mean a heart attack is happening.

Chest Discomfort . Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like an uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body . Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, the neck, the jaw, or stomach.

Shortness of breath . This feeling often comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur before the chest discomfort.

Other signs. They may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs, don't wait longer then a few minutes (no longer than 5) before calling 911. Heart attack is a life-and–death emergency. Every second counts.

How to reduce your risk of heart disease:

•  Quit smoking permanently.

•  Control your blood pressure and have it checked regularly.

•  Exercise at least 3 times a week for 20 minutes or more at your target heart rate

•  Eat a balanced diet reduced in fat, cholesterol and salt.

Love and affirmation in our relationships help us to care for our emotional hearts.

Learning about all of our emotions assists us in experiencing harmony and wholeness in our lives.

We share the good news that is in the Lord who creates purity and wholeness in hearts. At the same time, we understand our need to nourish our spirits. We can care for our spiritual hearts by setting aside a regular time in our schedules for worship, bible studies, devotions and prayer.

The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 14:30 that a heart at peace gives life to the body!

Doris Branch

Your Parish Nurse