As Valentine’s Day approaches, red and pink hearts fill store windows, reminding us to celebrate love and relationships. As we express love for others, let’s also turn some of that love and care toward our own physical hearts.

February is American Heart Month. While many are concerned about cancer risks, it's important to know that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. While genetics can influence heart health, many heart-related conditions are preventable through positive daily lifestyle choices.

Here are some ways to show your heart some love:

Consistent exercise

Exercise is one of the most powerful actions a person can take to improve their longevity and independence. Regular movement strengthens the heart, protects brain health, preserves mobility, and reduces the risk of chronic disease. Some research confirms that exercise not only delays actual death but also prevents both cognitive and physical decline, better than any other intervention.

Exercise doesn’t mean you have to run a 5K; it just means to move in ways you can enjoy and sustain. Meet friends for a walk, stretch in the mornings, do chair yoga, ask a personal trainer to create a total-body strength-training routine using dumbbells, resistance bands, or bodyweight. Challenge yourself to move this month. You can do it!

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Adequate sleep

The American Heart Association recommends 7-9 hours of quality sleep. Sleep is when the heart and brain repair and restore. And a good night’s sleep begins with a good day of “wakefulness.” A day of wakefulness includes exercise, some outdoor time, sensible eating (no late-night snacking), minimal to no alcohol, effective stress management, and setting clear boundaries around work and other life stressors.

I used to be a night owl, but after learning about the many health benefits of sleep, I am trying to get to bed earlier. One trick that has helped me to get more sleep: simply setting an alarm on my phone as a reminder to start getting ready for bed. It’s working! And I’m feeling so much better after getting more sleep.

Less processed foods

Heart-healthy nutrition focuses on whole, minimally processed foods; adequate protein, healthy fats, fiber-rich plants and mindful portions. Think about choosing foods that are on the outside perimeter of the grocery store: fruits, vegetables, lean protein. The goal is to nourish your body for long-term vitality.

Connection strengthens the heart

New studies reveal that social relationships increase longevity by 50 percent. A landmark meta-analysis of 148 studies (308,000-plus people) found that strong social relationships improve survival as much as quitting smoking. Why? We are divinely created for relationships. Feeling connected to others reduces chronic stress, lowers blood pressure, and decreases inflammation, directly impacting one’s heart health.

Show your heart some love

During this special month that promotes love, connection and heart health, what can you do to show your physical and emotional heart some love? This February, try writing a letter of gratitude to a friend, mentor or a family member. Reach out to a friend who may be going through a difficult time, or schedule a date to try something new or exercise with a friend. These meaningful moments of connection will add joy to your days and will strengthen your heart and your health.

Kylie Alger is a certified wellness coach and co-owner of the Well-Woman: Body, Mind & Spirit. Comments: kylie@thewellwoman.org.