Hatha Yoga for High Blood Pressure

By Sanjeev Patel, CYT 500

There is a reason why high blood pressure is known as the “silent killer.” There are virtually no symptoms. Yet, it is quite common in the modern world, especially among people who are stressed, overweight or elderly.

Sufferers are often advised to alter their lifestyles to avoid stress. Meditation and Yoga can be the keys for many people to achieve success in this endeavor.

Diagnosing High Blood Pressure

Your doctor takes your blood pressure every visit. These days, self-diagnosis is simple with many inexpensive and effective home detection devices available.

Although many factors need to be considered, in general if the blood pressure is 140/90 it is considered to be borderline.

Any reading over 140/90 is considered to be a form of hypertension. It is important to lower the blood pressure to the 120/70 range, because high blood pressure can lead to much more serious health problems like heart attack or stroke. These conditions can lead to premature death. Early treatment of hypertension can prevent these deadly health issues.

Yoga Poses to Lower High Blood Pressure

Certain Yoga poses (asanas) have been shown to help manage stress and hypertension. The Easy Pose (Sukasana) is recommended for stress reduction. If it is practiced after the Corpse Pose (Sivasana), this pose strengthens the spine, slows the metabolism, and promotes quiet stillness of mind. The Cat Pose, although not always advised for everyone with back issues, is designed to coordinate movement and breath. This will inspire calmness and muscle relaxation.

For people new to Hatha Yoga, the Half Spinal Twist should only be done in the presence of a Yoga instructor. If practiced regularly it will not only reduce blood pressure, but will have added benefits for the liver and kidneys as well.

Simple stretching can be very beneficial in lowering blood pressure. Shoulder stretches relieve tension throughout the upper back as well as the shoulders. Try the Standing Spread Leg Forward Fold to stretch the back and inner parts of the legs. You can use a chair as a prop or for balance.

Even simpler Yoga stretches are helpful in lowering blood pressure:

– Bend at the hips.

– Keep your head at heart level, with your torso parallel to the floor.

– Reach in the direction of your knees.

– Let your arms hang loose.

– Rotate the arms clockwise and counter clockwise.

– Lift and hold both legs from a prone position to various heights.

– Reach and stretch your arms above your head.

Daily practice of these and other Yoga exercises can be very helpful in lowering your blood pressure to normal levels and maintaining them.  Please note that this article is informational in nature. You should always consult with your own doctor before beginning any exercise routine.

Yoga posture contraindications are an important part of each Yoga teacher training course at Aura Wellness center.

© Copyright 2011 – Sanjeev Patel / Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

Sanjeev Patel is a certified Yoga teacher and an exclusive author for Aura Wellness Center.

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