High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition wherein a person’s blood pressure is above 140/90. With elevated blood pressure, it puts a lot of strain on a person’s heart, blood vessels, and other associated organs, making a person prone to conditions such as heart attacks, aneurysms, and strokes. While blood pressure can be managed by medication, it’s a risky proposition by itself due to potential side effects. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways to manage blood pressure without resorting to medications. Here are 5 of the best examples.
1. Breathe properly
While this may seem too simple, proper breathing techniques do bring positive effects to your blood pressure. By taking slow, controlled breaths, you reduce the production of particular stress hormones that trigger the production of renin. Produced by the liver, renin is an enzyme produced by the kidney that raises blood pressure. When you’re feeling stressed, take a break and have a few deep breaths. Not only does this reduce your blood pressure, but it also produces a much-needed calming effect.
2. Have some sunlight
Having some time under the sun can be especially helpful for a hypertensive person. This is because being exposed to sunlight triggers the production of nitric oxide. When present in the bloodstream, it causes the relaxation of blood vessels, causing blood to flow more freely and reducing blood pressure in the process. With enough sunlight, it can reduce one’s risk of a heart attack. Of course, don’t go out in high heat, as the extreme temperatures actually increase your blood pressure.
3. Have a walk
It is recommended that you get at least 30 minutes of aerobic physical activity to prevent the development of cardiovascular problems. Not everyone has the time to go to the gym. The best way to work around these limitations is to take walks. Regular walking for at least 30 minutes daily can reduce your blood pressure readings by at least 10 points. Find ways to integrate walking and cardio exercises in your daily routine. Your body will thank you for it.
4. Drink tea
Tea is one of the world’s most favorite drinks and for good reason. One of the most compelling reasons is its health-giving abilities. It has been recently discovered that regular tea consumption is directly linked to the reduction of blood pressure and heart rate. Probable mechanisms for this unique ability include tea’s ability to relax the senses and its superior antioxidant content. It is recommended that you drink 1 to 4 cups of tea daily.
5. Listen to music
A lot of people use music as a means to chill out, self-entertain, and psyche up. In spite of this, not a lot of people know that listening to music actually reduces blood pressure too. A study published in the Netherland Heart Journal states that those who regularly play or listen to music have lower blood pressure than those who don’t. The main reason behind these results is that the somatosensory region of the brain is stimulated, leading to improved autonomic nervous system function.
Managing blood pressure through natural means is a great way to get your health back in order with the least side effects possible