Know Your Numbers

January is Know Your Numbers month, a perfect time to pause, check in with our health, and better understand the numbers that quietly tell important stories about our bodies. Two of the most important? Blood pressure and cholesterol. These numbers don’t usually announce themselves with symptoms, but they play a major role in heart health, brain health, and overall wellbeing—especially as we age.

At Lummi Island Health & Wellness (LIH&W), we believe that caring for your health doesn’t have to be complicated or necessarily clinical. It starts with understanding what your numbers mean and knowing how everyday choices, movement, connection, and stress reduction, can support them.

What Is Blood Pressure, Really?

Blood pressure measures how hard your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It’s written as two numbers:

Systolic (top number): pressure when your heart beats

Diastolic (bottom number): pressure when your heart rests between beats

A commonly recommended goal for adults is around 120/80 mmHg, though your healthcare provider may suggest different targets based on your age or health history.

When blood pressure stays too high over time, it is called hypertension, and  it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and can cause vision problems. When it’s too low, it can cause dizziness, falls, and fatigue. Either way, awareness is key.

Why “Knowing Your Numbers” Matters

High blood pressure is often called the silent condition because many people feel completely fine—even when their numbers are not. That’s why regular monitoring is so important.

Blood Pressure: What to Watch For

While symptoms aren’t always present, pay attention to patterns and changes, especially if you experience:

·         Frequent headaches

·         Shortness of breath

·         Dizziness or lightheadedness

·         Chest discomfort

·         Unusual fatigue

If you ever experience sudden chest pain, confusion, or vision changes, seek medical help immediately.

Everyday Habits That Support Healthy Blood Pressure

The good news? Small, consistent actions can make a meaningful difference.

Key lifestyle supports include:

·         Regular physical activity

·         Stress reduction and relaxation

·         Healthy sleep routines

·         Staying socially connected

·         Following medical guidance when needed

Movement doesn’t have to mean high-intensity workouts. In fact, gentle, mindful exercises are often one of the most sustainable ways to support heart health.

How LIH&W Supports Your Heart Health

At Lummi Island Health & Wellness, we offer programs that naturally support healthy blood pressure and overall wellness—right here in our island community.

Our yoga, tai chi, and dance classes encourage gentle cardiovascular activity, balance, flexibility, and stress reduction. These practices are known to: lower stress hormones, improve circulation, support balance and mobility, and create joyful, social movement.

Telehealth Program

Living on an island comes with unique healthcare challenges. Our Telehealth program helps bridge the gap by offering a connection point between island residents and their off-island medical providers. Whether you’re tracking blood pressure, reviewing lab results, or following up on cholesterol numbers, Telehealth can help you stay connected and informed—without unnecessary travel.

Knowing your numbers isn’t about fear or perfection. It’s about curiosity, awareness, and care—for yourself and for the life you want to keep living on this island we love. Take the time this month to check your blood pressure or join a class, taking one small but important step toward better health.  Because wellness, island-style, is about staying healthy…together.

To learn more about classes, programs, and resources, visit www.lummihw.org

 or follow us on social media for upcoming events and wellness tips.