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.

When you react to a stressful situation, stress hormones are released into your bloodstream and your heart rate and blood pressure increase.

No matter the source of your stress, it can produce physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that can affect any part of the body.

Here are proactive steps you can take to prevent the toll stress takes on your life.

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.