Did you know that nearly 45% of American adults suffer from high blood pressure? Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. However, there’s a gentle yet powerful solution that has been helping people manage their heart health for thousands of years: yoga for high blood pressure.
Recent studies show yoga practice can reduce systolic blood pressure by up to 5 mmHg. Key cardiovascular benefits include stress reduction, improved circulation, enhanced heart rate variability, and weight management.
Five recommended heart-healthy yoga poses:
- Child’s Pose (Balasana) – Activates parasympathetic nervous system
- Legs-Up-the-Wall (Viparita Karani) – Improves circulation
- Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana) – Reduces anxiety and stress
- Supine Spinal Twist – Releases tension and promotes better sleep
- Corpse Pose (Savasana) – Ultimate relaxation pose
Powerful breathing techniques like Box Breathing and Extended Exhale Breathing have been scientifically proven to support heart health. Multiple studies show combining yoga with conventional treatment improved outcomes in 89% of participants.
When starting yoga for heart health, begin gradually and always consult your healthcare provider first. Avoid headstands, shoulder stands, and other full inversions if you have hypertension.