How to mend a broken heart post breakup
“It’s not you, it’s me.” When heartbreak hits, it hits hard – really, really hard. The heart is an organ of emotion. Any time we feel out of balance from breakup-induced stress, our hearts are right there with us.
Unfortunately, your body isn’t configured in a way that allows you to send bottomless pints of ice cream directly to it. But, Arthur D. Belber, M.D., a cardiologist at the Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia (CCP) in the Norriton office, has some practical heart-healthy advice on how you can recharge both your emotional and physical wellbeing when a love lost shakes you to your core.
Tune out stress. Did you know that daily doses of music have been shown to decrease the release of cortisol and other stress hormones? Listening to your favorite songs, especially when feeling stressed or anxious, can decrease both your heart rate and blood pressure and improve blood flow. Music across all genres modulates the nervous system, which is important for maintaining a healthy heart.
Make it a laughing matter. Laughter, especially when heartbreak hits, can truly be some of the best medicine available. Studies have shown that laughter can decrease stress hormones, lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Laughter has also been shown to increase good cholesterol. When you laugh, the blood flow increases and your blood pressure rises. When you stop laughing, blood pressure drops back to its baseline. This relaxing effect helps bring down blood pressure and generates deeper breathing, which results in more oxygenated blood in your body. Effects can last up to 24 hours, so laugh it up!
Put one foot in front of the other. A 30-minute workout, even a brisk walk each day, can lower an individual’s blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing the risk for heart attack and stroke. There is also the psychological benefit to exercising regularly that can help you in your post-breakup time of need. Physical exercise releases hormones called endorphins, which interact with receptors in the brain to reduce pain and make you feel good. You’ve heard the term “Runner’s High.” Endorphins are responsible for that all-over-good feeling and sense of euphoria. Climb out from the covers. Get some fresh air.
Sit. Stay. Heal. “Broken Heart Syndrome” is a real, physical response to a surge of stress hormones, according to the American Heart Association. Broken Heart Syndrome can be caused by stressful events (read as: that “maybe we should just be friends” moment). Common symptoms are chest pain and shortness of breath – all of which can occur with no history of heart disease. The good news? You have an excuse to pet all the animals. Studies have shown that having a pet can lower your risk of heart attack, reduce blood pressure and lower stress levels. Petting your favorite furry friend can also help you feel safe and give you something to care for.