September is Heart Awareness Month. Did you know that cardiovascular disease (CVD) kills about 200 people in South Africa every day, which is equivalent to 13 mini bus load of people?
In addition, 6.3 million South Africans suffer from high blood pressure, 4 million have diabetes, 7 million of smoke and 4 million have high cholesterol - all risk factors for cardiovascular disease seriously.
Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) has come up with a list of suggestions on fun, the so-called "S" rule.
"Let us all choose one of the challenges of 'S' and stick to it for a month," said Dr Vash Mungal-Singh, CEO of the HSFSA. "Do it for and with the people who love and depend on you. After a while these good habits will become a way of life and could even save your life and the lives of your loved ones."
The 'S' rule:
Smile - it's easy!
Swap that milk chocolate to dark chocolate
Sleep on ..... with lovers, cats, dogs, anyone ...
More saliva of healthy food options
Spoil yourself - buy new sports equipment and feel sexy working
Save hundreds of thousands of Rands per year if you quit smoking now - and increase your life span!
Singing at the top of your voice - not just in the shower! Music has been known to have a positive impact on your blood pressure
Say goodbye to stress and seek help if you need it.
Enjoy the moment - doing something you love with someone you love!
Get some fresh air - out into nature