This month millions of people will be wearing red to promote American Heart Month. This month use the color red to promote better heart health in your life and the life of others.

Many people wear red to bring awareness to the dangerous effects heart disease has on our society. The CDC reports that every year over 730,000 Americans have a heart attack and over 600,000 Americans die of heart disease—this makes heart disease the leading cause of death for both men and women. In fact, one in every four deaths in America is related to heart disease.

To spread awareness about American Heart Month millions of people participate in the National Wear Red campaign or the Go Red for Women campaign. The color red is an important symbol that you can use to better your heart health.

The Color Red Represents…

• Romance. Red is the color of love, an all-powerful medicine that we sometimes take for granted. Even a hug from a loved one can powerfully impact your heart health. An older study found that frequent hugs between spouses or partners were associated with lower blood pressure in premenopausal women. Another study found that holding hands with your loved one for 10 minutes could reduce the harmful physical effects of stress, such as an increased heart rate. This month embrace romance for better physical and emotional health.

• Perseverance. Red is the color of aggression and perseverance. This month use the color red and your persevering spirit to tackle an ambitious exercise program. Exercising regularly is one of the best ways to promote better heart health. Balance your exercising program with cardio, strength training, and stretching exercising. Go for a morning jog at least three times a week. Lift weights to build up your strength and take up yoga to increase your flexibility. Your heart will thank you.

• Nutrition. Red is the color of a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Numerous red-colored foods high in antioxidants have nutrients that can help promote better heart health. For instance, strawberries have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce your risk of heart disease. Apples have nutrients that can help lower cholesterol. And tomatoes have carotenoids, which are often described as heart-protective antioxidants.

• Life. Red is the color of life because it is the color of blood, the energy the flows within your body. This month use meditation to focus on the energy flowing within you—it’s a good way to reduce stress, lower hypertension, and reduce high cholesterol.