I’ve spent a lot of time talking about movement, nutrition, and strength—and sure, those
things matter. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s this:
A healthy heart isn’t just about exercise and eating well. It’s about how much you actually enjoy your life.
Because what’s the point of having a strong heart if it’s not beating for something you love?
My Own Wake-Up Call
For years, I thought that if I just exercised enough, ate “right,” and worked hard, I was doing everything I needed for my health.
Then life did what life does—it threw me a curveball.
Between pushing through nerve compression pain, navigating menopause, and juggling all the things I stressed about, I found myself completely worn out. My workouts felt like a chore. My stress levels were high. And even though I was “doing all the right things,” my heart didn’t feel happy.
That’s when I made a shift. Instead of just focusing on the physical side of heart health, I started focusing on what made me feel strong, happy, and full of energy. And let me tell you—it changed everything.
Now, heart health isn’t just about my workouts. It’s about:
💖 Moving in ways that feel good, not forced.
💖 Prioritizing joy and connection.
💖 Eating to fuel my energy, not to fit someone else’s food rules. And let me tell you—my heart has never felt stronger.
Why Loving Your Life is Good for Your Heart
❤ Less Stress, More Fun: Stress is a major risk factor for heart disease. But laughter, dancing, and doing things that bring you joy? Those are natural heart protectors.
❤ Connection is Medicine: Spending time with people you love reduces blood pressure and helps your heart function better. (Yes, even your chatty group text counts.)
❤ Move in a Way That Feels Good: Strength training? Walking? Dancing? It all counts. The best exercise for your heart is the one you actually enjoy doing.
❤ Eat Like You Love Yourself: I used to think food was all about “being good” or “sticking to a plan.” Now, I eat for energy, nourishment, and enjoyment—and I recommend you do the same.
❤ Find a Passion That Lights You Up: Whether it’s acting in a play, coaching women
through big life changes, or making jewelry infused with good energy—having something to
wake up excited about keeps your heart strong.
Your Heart-Happy Challenge!
💡 Do something this week that makes your heart happy.
💡 Spend time with people who lift you up.
💡 Move in a way that feels fun, not forced.
💡 Eat something nourishing—because you love your body, not to punish it.
💡 Try something new that excites you!
Because a healthy heart isn’t just about living longer—it’s about loving your life while you’re here.
What’s something that makes your heart happy? Drop it in the comments!
Stay happy, strong, and heart-healthy,
Erica
📲 Instagram: @EricaJonesWoolley
📲 Facebook: Erica Jones Woolley Coaching
📲 TikTok: @HealthandHappinessCoach
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