Mental stress does more than diminish your sense of well-being. It also can increase your risk for heart disease.

Recent research shows a clear link between heart disease and certain stress-related emotions.

Meditation allows you to become more awake and more deliberate about your actions. It teaches you how to respond rather than react to situations in your life.

Your heart is a vital organ that keeps your body functioning. Unfortunately, many people don't treat it that way. They may not realize that their daily habits and lifestyle can overwork and damage their heart. So, take care of your heart and yourself. Start by making the following lifestyle changes.