Hypertension, casually known as high blood pressure, is a prevalent health problem which could lead to severe complications if ignored or undervalued. Sure, medications are typically the first line of action to combat high blood pressure, but did you also know yoga could be a handy addition to your daily routine? Yoga & its nerve-calming, relaxation inducing poses could be a gentle yet powerful way to alleviate stress, better your cardiovascular health, and trump high blood pressure, right at home. Let’s delve into five top yoga postures you can try.
- Sukhasana (The Easy Pose)
The Easy Pose, or Sukhasana as we yogis call it, is a simple yet meaningful seated posture primarily meant to bring calm and tranquility. If you’re wondering how to start, sit cross-legged on a flat surface, with your spine upright & shoulders easy. Shut your eyes and meditate on your breath, taking it slow and steady. This humble pose could be a step towards stress reduction and controlling high blood pressure over a period.
- Balasana (The Child’s Pose)
Known as the Balasana or the Child’s Pose, this relaxing posture aids in releasing pent-up tension in your back, shoulders and neck. Kneel down on the floor and touch your big toes, with knees spread out. Gently stoop your upper body towards the floor with arms stretched forward. Let your forehead caress the mat as you breathe deeply into calmness. This pose is known to soothe your body as well as the nervous system, thus potentially lowering blood pressure levels.
- Setu Bandhasana (The Bridge Pose)
The Bridge Pose or Setu Bandhasana, a mild backbend, is touted for its blood pressure lowering capacities and circulation boosting potential. Lie flat on your back, bend your knees and keep your feet rooted into the ground. Trust your feet to lift your hips skyward, fashioning a bridge-like posture. Hold this pose for a few breaths, and gradually descend. This pose may push away stress and anxiety, possibly eventually leading to healthier blood pressure numbers.
- Viparita Karani (The Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)
Viparita Karani, or the Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, is a recuperative pose that may help you abate blood pressure and imbibe relaxation. With your back to the floor and legs elevated up against the wall, rest your arms by your side, close your eyes and practice mindful breathing. This pose is known to soothe the nervous system and boost circulation, which could result in a better control of blood pressure over time.
- Savasana (The Corpse Pose)
Also known as the Corpse Pose, Savasana is an all-too-important wind down posture that allows your body to slowly relax and rejuvenate. Lie flat on your back, arms and legs comfortably apart, with your palms open to the universe. Close your eyes and visualize all tensions dissipating and stresses melting away. This meditative pose could be a gateway to lowering blood pressure and cultivating an overall sense of peace and health.
The above-mentioned top five home-friendly yoga poses, you could be empowering yourself to resist high blood pressure naturally.
