7 Heart-Healthy Habits That Benefit Your Skin Too

Alright, ladies—February is the month of love, hearts, and overpriced chocolates (which, let’s be honest, we still buy on the 15th when they go on sale). But beyond the romance, it’s a great time to show some love to the most hardworking muscle in our body—our heart. And guess what? A strong, happy heart doesn’t just keep you feeling great; it also gives your skin that glow we’re all after.

But I’m not here to tell you the same old "eat healthy, drink water, exercise" advice. We know that already! Instead, let’s talk about a few unexpected heart-healthy habits that also happen to be amazing for your skin. Ready? Let’s dive in!

1. Chew Your Food More (Yes, Really!) 🦷

Did you know that how you chew affects both your heart health and your skin? Turns out, chewing slowly reduces stress on your heart and helps your body absorb more skin-loving nutrients from your food.

🔹 Heart Perk: Less bloating, better digestion, and lower blood sugar spikes (which helps prevent heart disease).
🔹 Skin Perk: More nutrient absorption = more collagen, more hydration, and fewer breakouts.

💡 Try This: Aim for 20-30 chews per bite (yes, I counted once—it felt ridiculous at first, but my digestion and skin said thank you).

2. Take a Cold Shower (or at Least Splash Your Face!) 🚿

Okay, I know—it sounds cruel. But a quick burst of cold water can work wonders!

🔹 Heart Perk: Cold exposure helps improve circulation and lowers inflammation.
🔹 Skin Perk: Tighter pores, reduced puffiness, and a healthy flush (without needing blush!).

💡 Try This: Start with 30 seconds of cold water at the end of your shower. Or, if that sounds awful, just splash your face with cold water every morning to wake up your skin.

3. Breathe Through Your Nose, Not Your Mouth 👃

Sounds weird, right? But mouth breathing (especially at night) can cause dry skin, fine lines, and even worsen dark circles—yikes. Plus, it messes with your oxygen levels, which affects your heart.

🔹 Heart Perk: Nose breathing increases oxygen efficiency and lowers blood pressure.
🔹 Skin Perk: More oxygen to your skin = less dullness and fewer wrinkles.

💡 Try This: If you wake up with a dry mouth, try sleeping on your side to encourage nose breathing.

4. Hug Someone (Or Even Yourself!) 🤗

Yes, hugging is good for your heart—literally. Physical touch releases oxytocin, a hormone that lowers blood pressure and stress. And we all know stress is one of the skin’s biggest enemies!

🔹 Heart Perk: Lowers stress and blood pressure.
🔹 Skin Perk: Less stress = fewer breakouts and less redness.

💡 Try This: No one around? Wrap your arms around yourself and squeeze—it might feel silly, but your body doesn’t know the difference! (Bonus points if you moisturize while doing it—hello, self-care!)

5. Eat More Purple Foods 🫐

We always hear about green veggies, but purple foods are secretly amazing for your heart and skin. The deep color comes from anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant that improves circulation and reduces inflammation.

🔹 Heart Perk: Helps keep arteries flexible and supports healthy blood flow.
🔹 Skin Perk: More circulation = brighter, healthier skin.

💡 Try This: Add purple cabbage, eggplant, black rice, blueberries, or elderberries to your meals!

6. Get More Magnesium (It’s Like a Chill Pill for Your Heart & Skin) 🌿

Magnesium is a miracle mineral that relaxes blood vessels, lowers stress, and helps with deep sleep. But most of us don’t get enough!

🔹 Heart Perk: Lowers blood pressure and stress.
🔹 Skin Perk: Helps prevent breakouts, dryness, and premature aging.

💡 Try This: Eat more pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, spinach, and almonds. Or use magnesium spray before bed for relaxation and better skin hydration.

7. Laugh More (It’s Free & Works Instantly!) 😂

Turns out, laughter truly is the best medicine! A good laugh reduces stress hormones that damage your heart and skin. Plus, it improves circulation, bringing more glow to your face!

🔹 Heart Perk: Lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.
🔹 Skin Perk: Releases endorphins, which fight inflammation and keep skin looking fresh.

💡 Try This: Watch a funny movie, call a friend who always cracks you up, or even just force yourself to smile (your brain can’t tell the difference!).

Give Your Heart (and Skin) Some Extra Love This Month! 💖

Taking care of your heart isn’t just about avoiding problems down the road—it’s about feeling your best, looking radiant, and living life to the fullest. And if we can sneak in a little extra glow while we’re at it? Even better!

Now tell me—which one of these tips surprised you the most? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇

With love & glowing skin,
Ava-Ann