Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can often lead sufferers to a state of great emotional tension. 'Hyper' means excessive, or more than normal, and 'tension' means stretching or mental and emotional strain.
High blood pressure is caused by a narrowing of the arteries, which means the heart has to work harder in order to push the blood through. When blood pressure is normal, an adult person registers 120 systolic and 80 diastolic mm of mercury pressure. Abnormal arteries or a defective circulatory system can increase this pressure to more than 140 systolic and 90 diastolic. If your blood pressure remains constant at these levels then the condition is called Hypertension.
Hypertension Can Lead to a Range of Diseases
Consistent elevated blood pressure can cause a lack of strength, tiredness, headaches, nervous tension, insomnia, confusion, decreased memory, restlessness, difficulty in breathing, bad temper, visionary troubles, coldness in the hands and feet as well as a wide range of diseases.
Hypertension is also a major contributing factor in many heart attacks. To alleviate risks it is important to get a proper check up by a qualified doctor every six months after the age of 40 and have your blood pressure checked regularly. Reducing your weight and healthy eating will also reduce the risk.
Avoiding stress
Stress and mental tension can also help raise blood pressure. This is where meditation comes in. Meditation techniques can help free your mind during stressful situations and help stop overreactions to day-to-day annoying situations.
Controlling your reactions to avoid arguments is particularly important. Do not replay past mistakes, worries and tensions repeatedly in your head. Try to stay in the present and always be aware of yourself.
The most positive step you can make is to practice yoga, pranayama and meditation daily to relax the mind. This not only removes symptoms but can also help prevent any further diseases.
Keep smiling, especially when under stress. Whenever you smile tension goes away. Try it. It really does work!
Asanas for high blood pressure
In particular the Asanas and Pranayama that can really help are Shashankasana, Sukhpurvaka, Sivananda Pranayama, Pranayama and Shavasana.
Other Suggestions
- Drink enough water
- Take a tablespoonful each of fresh amla juice with lemon and honey mixed together every morning.
- Mix equal amounts of onion juice and honey and take one tablespoon before breakfast each day.
- Evening meals should be light and taken at least two hours before going to bed.
- Sleep for eight to 10 hours.
Avoid overstraining, worrying, tension, anger and rushing.
