Next month is American Heart Month, and a healthy heart is a happy heart. These tips from TOPS Club Inc., the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, will help keep your ticker humming strong for years to come.

1. Stay positive.Not only is optimism good for the soul, it can also counteract stress. A more relaxed "you" has a lesser chance of developing heart disease.2. Slow down.Unplug from the digital world and remember some classic diversions. Write a letter, read a physical book or sing a song you used to love.3. Catch some zzz's.According to the National Sleep Foundation, "People who don't get enough sleep are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease - regardless of age, weight, smoking, and exercise habits."4. Know your numbers.Talk to your health care provider about where your cholesterol and blood pressure should be, and come up with a plan to keep them there.5. Exercise regularly.Not only is being physically active a leading contributor to weight loss, it releases mood-boosting endorphins.6. Drink plenty of water.Keeping your body hydrated helps the heart more easily pump blood throughout the body. And a "well-lubricated" body doesn't have to work as hard when you work out.7. Take your vitamins.Cardiovascular diseases have been linked to certain vitamin deficiencies. It's best to get your nutrients from food, but be sure to check with your medical provider about whether supplements like fish oil and vitamin D might be beneficial.8. Reduce salt.Too much sodium in your diet increases the risk of major health problems. Try a sprinkling of herbs and spices before reaching for that salt shaker.9. Laugh it up.A joke or two can lower stress hormones and reduce inflammation in the arteries.10. Go outside.Take a walk and enjoy some fresh air.Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. To find a local chapter, view

www.tops.org or call 800-932-8677.