February is American Heart Month, a time when millions of people come together for a goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke. Living a healthy lifestyle is something we all strive for, but building healthy habits and sticking to them is the best way to keep your heart and mind happy all year long.

Anybody can build healthy habits; they just need to know how to do it effectively. Although getting and staying healthy can feel like a big challenge, it doesn’t have to be. Working small, positive steps into your daily life can help you build a healthier routine.

Here are a few ways to build healthy habits:

Start a gratitude habit.

A regular gratitude practice can make you healthier and lead to better mood, better sleep, lower blood pressure and improved immune function.

Add more color to your plate.

Colorful fruits and vegetables are not only delicious, but also packed with essential vitamins. Pick your favorites and build a plate that not only looks great, but tastes great too!

Get more sleep.

Find yourself hitting the snooze button every morning?  Try a nightly routine to help you unwind before bed, like reading a book. Or choose a morning hobby you look forward to that will motivate you.

Get outside and take a walk.

Even if it’s just for 20 minutes a day, moving more and breathing fresh air helps you physically and mentally.

Get involved and get educated.

Register for the Northeast PA Heart Walk and move more with friends and family while supporting a great cause. You can also join us at the Northeast PA Go Red for Women celebration to stay educated on ways to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

For more tips on how to stay healthy this Heart Month, visit heart.org.