Laughter, Music, Meditation, and Pets: Simple Pleasures That Can Protect Your Heart

Divulgação

On World Heart Day, a cardiologist shares how common daily activities can help reduce stress and lower cortisol levels, acting as powerful allies for cardiovascular health.

The heart, a vital organ that beats about 100,000 times a day, deserves constant attention. In Brazil, approximately 400,000 cases of Acute Myocardial Infarction (heart attack) are registered annually, and one in five to seven affected individuals dies, making it the leading cause of death in the country.

While well-established preventative measures like physical exercise, a balanced diet, and regular medical check-ups are essential, simple, everyday pleasures can also be powerful allies in heart protection.

According to Dr. Paulo Mesquita, a cardiologist with the Hapvida Hospital Bauru team, activities like laughing at a good joke, listening to relaxing music, meditating for a few minutes, and playing with a pet all have direct, positive effects on cardiovascular health.

The Anti-Stress Prescription

Dr. Mesquita explains that these simple acts work by combating the effects of modern life:

"These are attitudes that help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, decrease cortisol levels (the hormone linked to stress), and release endorphins, which have direct benefits for cardiovascular well-being," says the doctor. "Smiling opens the heart to satisfaction. Living with joy, reflected in your eyes and spirit, helps you better cope with adversity. All of this, without a doubt, acts as a prescription that even prevents possible worsening of clinical conditions."

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The Power of Sound and Silence

Studies have shown the therapeutic effect of music on patients, but the cardiologist emphasizes that not all sounds are helpful.

"From the infant stage, serene music induces relaxation and improves the quality of life. This feeling acts as a cardiovascular therapy. Agitated music, however, can have the opposite effect and may even aggravate heart disease," he warns.

Similarly, the simple act of meditating, even for just a few minutes, can yield important health effects by reducing blood pressure and cortisol levels. Dr. Mesquita stresses that consistency is more important than duration. "Long periods are not necessary. A few minutes of quality time are enough to see the benefits," he summarizes.

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Pets as Cardioprotectors

The companionship of pets is another simple pleasure with profound health benefits. Research confirms that interacting with and playing with pets not only reduces cortisol but also increases oxytocin—a substance linked to well-being and calmness.

For Dr. Mesquita, pets have assumed a role that transcends emotional support. "The needy gaze mixed with joy and gentleness from pets produces a cardioprotective effect. They are increasingly considered part of the family and contribute to human health in a surprising way," the specialist notes.

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The Importance of Daily Habits

The critical role of prioritizing daily habits that benefit the heart is highlighted by a recent study from Ireland. The research analyzed over 10,500 patients and found that the risk of a heart attack is 13% higher on Mondays, the first day of the working week—a finding often linked to increased stress and the abrupt transition from the weekend.

"This reinforces the importance of reflecting and beginning to pay attention to simple wellness strategies that can make a difference," concludes Dr. Mesquita. "Laughing more, listening to calming music, setting aside minutes to meditate, and enjoying the company of pets are accessible pleasures for anyone. When added to a healthier lifestyle and physical exercise, they can be great allies for a more protected heart."