On March 31, the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid passed away from heart attack at the age of 65. Zaha was the first woman to have won the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 2004, and has designed many of the world’s most impressive buildings and structures, including the Aquatics Centre for the 2012 London Olympics and the modern-looking condominium d’Leedon here in Singapore. The world has truly lost a great visionary. As we mourn her death, we are at the same time reminded of the importance of taking care of our heart. Here are some ways which we can strengthen it:
1. EAT HEALTHY Having a balanced diet is one of the most important factors in determining the condition of your heart health. Eat more fruits and vegetables and cut down on foods high in sodium and saturated or trans fats.
Related: 6 Ways To Increase Your Fruit Intake
Read also: 5 Superfood Salads For Weight Loss
2. EXERCISE MORE An active lifestyle helps keep diseases at bay, but more importantly, it gives your heart a good workout and keeps it pumping. Even if you have no time to go to the gym, do some simple exercises at home daily, or plan a relaxing walk after meals.
Related: Why Walking Is Good For You
3. NO SMOKING If you smoke, quit now. Or give yourself a plan to do so. Because smoking increases your risk of heart attack as nicotine clogs up the blood vessels, raises your blood pressure and increases the heart rate.
4. SLEEP WELL Rest is important to a healthy heart, and good sleep helps you achieve it. Aim to get at least seven to eight hours of shut-eye each night. Taking short naps in the afternoon is also recommended by many experts.
Related: How To Sleep Better Tonight and How Your iPhone Can Help You Sleep Better
Read also: You Shouldn’t Sacrifice Sleep For Work
5. BE HAPPY Keeping a positive mind and learning to cope with stress boosts a healthy mind and body which will benefit your heart. So smile more, spend more time with your loved ones and plan activities which relax you and make you happy.
Related: 3 Ways To Feel Happy Now and Easy Ways To Wake Up Happier
Read also: Heart Attack Signs You Must Know
Visit the Singapore Heart Foundation’s website for more on heart health.
https://www.instagram.com/p/5MfP60tNpB/?taken-by=zaha_hadid&hl=en
RIP Zaha Hadid, you will always be remembered.
Photo: @zaha_hadid