As we turn the page to February, a month synonymous with love and heart health, I’ve found myself reflecting on the deep interconnection between our emotional and spiritual hearts. How much do those temperaments influence the health of our physical heart and how does the state of this vital organ in turn affect our mental and emotional well-being?

Too often, heart health is treated as a one-size-fits-all mechanical equation, akin to maintaining the engine of a car, yet this approach feels incomplete. A car’s engine won’t restart simply because we add oil to it, just as our heart’s vitality isn’t fully restored with diet and exercise alone. Integrative cardiology—this month’s focus—offers a broader perspective, recognizing that heart health is influenced by a complex interplay of physical, emotional and spiritual factors.

In January, we highlighted the growing prominence of holistic, integrative and functional wellness trends. It’s no surprise that integrative cardiology is emerging as an essential component of this movement. As we delve into its principles, we’re reminded of the incredible design and resilience of the human body—a machine so finely tuned that its mysteries are still unfolding right under our noses.

In virtually every heart-health conversation, stress inevitably makes an appearance. It’s remarkable to consider how intangible emotions and thoughts can manifest as very real physical effects on our heart. This is ancient wisdom, as evidenced by our “instruction manual”—the Bible. Proverbs 4:23 tells us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” This wisdom isn’t just metaphorical; it speaks to the necessity of protecting both our physical and emotional hearts. Similarly, Proverbs 17:22 reminds us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones,” underlining the health-giving power of positivity and joy.

Perhaps the most calming verse of all is Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Harmony and contentment, it seems, are powerful protectors of the heart. These ancient insights feel profoundly relevant as we consider the holistic care our hearts require today, and the prominence of stress reduction in any discussion of heart health.

On a more superficial note, I’m pleased to report that one of my favorite indulgences, chocolate, is also heart-healthy—a fact that seems too good to be true. Perhaps it isn’t entirely serendipitous that this nutrient-rich superfood is closely tied to Valentine’s Day. As you flip through this month’s issue, you’ll find recipes that celebrate chocolate in all its delicious and nourishing glory. In addition to culinary delights, we’ve packed this issue with heart-healthy activities from stretching exercises to mindfulness practices, all aimed at supporting overall well-being.

February isn’t just about romantic love; it’s a reminder to care for the heart in all its dimensions. Whether that means strengthening connections with loved ones, practicing self-care or fostering a deeper sense of spiritual peace, the heart is central to our ability to live vibrantly.

A final note: make sure to read our interview with Trammell Crow, founder of Dallas’ own EarthX, now a streaming media behemoth for all things sustainable and green. Since COVID, this giant has pivoted away from its founding concept, the Earth Day Expo, and is now settling into its new, broader and deeper focus, the Congress of Conferences, which provides even more opportunities for people to learn about and work together on our most important environmental concerns. This year’s event will be held April 21 to 25 at the Hilton Anatole.

As you explore this issue, I hope you’re inspired to prioritize your heart’s health—not just its mechanics, but its emotional and spiritual well-being, too—and to attend the  EarthX Congress of Conferences. After all, a strong, joyful heart and a protected environment are the cornerstones of living a healthier life on a healthy planet.

Blessings until next month,