Yoga Poses For Arterial Hypertension
Yoga is good for arterial hypertension. But before we discuss yoga poses, let’s understand what hypertension is all about.
What Is Hypertension
Hypertension: Commonly known as high blood pressure, hypertension is the condition when the amount of pressure in your arteries gets high enough to cause harm to your body. Hypertension can often lead to a stroke, Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), heart attacks and if unchecked, it can be fatal. If you experience disturbed kidney functioning, ringing in the ears, hazy vision, giddiness, and pounding headaches, then do visit a doctor for a checkup as these are the signs of hypertension.
Arterial Hypertension: Adults who have arterial hypertension have arterial pressure above 140 x 90 mmHg. This is gauged thrice in a row at 15-minute intervals and at regular medical checkups.
Keeping Hypertension Under Control: If you think you may have arterial hypertension, it’s best to consult a doctor and follow medical advice and take proper medicines. However, to manage your hypertension, you can change your lifestyle and try certain yoga postures. You could begin by giving up smoking, if you are a regular smoker; reduce your alcohol intake; use less salt while cooking; and, avoid red meet and rich food. You should also exercise regularly – walking and yoga are two of the best options. Meditation to calm the mind and cope with stress is another must for hypertension patients.
Effect Of Yoga: Since hypertension causes damage to internal organs like kidneys, liver, lungs and the heart, certain yoga asanas/poses and pranayama can help to prevent the damage. Yoga postures are static, and need less blood and oxygen, which in turn put minimum strain on the body and helps the muscles to relax. The breathing techniques in yoga oxygenate the blood, thus, absorbing and sending important nutrients to all the blood vessels. Yoga also combats stress and can regulate the blood pressure.
Yoga Poses For Hypertension: While these are effective yoga postures to control hypertension, it’s advisable to check with your doctor before you begin.
Sukhasana (Easy pose): A meditative pose, it is generally done after performing Shavasana (Corpse pose). It slows down metabolism, calms the mind and straightens the spine.
Bidalasana (Cat pose): This posture coordinates movement and breath. It also initiates movement from your center. However, if you have a back injury or suffer from spinal pain, then this pose should be avoided.
Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist pose): It strengthens and lengthens the spine and is good for your adrenal glands, kidneys and liver.
You may also want to do Balasana (Child’s pose), Shavasana (Corpse pose) and Makarasana (Crocodile pose) if you suffer from hypertension. These poses are said to relieve stress and are good for controlling blood pressure.
