High blood pressure, or HBP, may be reduced by practicing breathing exercises alone or as an accompaniment to other exercise techniques. Exercise programs such as yoga or aerobics can incorporate breathing techniques, which may also reduce your HBP. Many of these exercises can be done at home. Speak to your doctor for more information on HBP and other breathing exercise recommendations.
Symptoms
HBP is a common condition in which the force of the blood against your arterial walls is high enough that other medical disorders may result, including cardiovascular disease, notes MayoClinic.com. HBP is determined by measuring the amount of blood your heart pumps in relation to the resistance of blood flow in your arteries. As your arteries become narrower, your blood pressure will rise because your heart must work harder to push blood throughout your body.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is a common strategy used to relieve stress in your body, and this technique can also help lower HBP. According to Yoga Point, a resource of the charity Yoga Vidya Dham, deeper breathing helps ease your mind as a meditation technique, and also will train your body to breathe slower, thus calming your muscles and heart rate. As your heart rate is lowered, the pressure in your arteries will also be reduced.
Pranayama
Pranayama is a yoga technique that can be used to help lower HBP. This technique focuses on the control of breath, breathing and your blood circulation while placing your body in different yoga positions. Meditation is also incorporated in this yoga technique. In pranayama, your breathing is controlled and breathing rate is reduced, which reduces the strain on your heart and also its rate of contraction. You are also focusing your body's energy to maintain a pose or body position for an extended period. Deep breathing in this example is used to calm the mind and relieve stress.
Considerations
Breathing exercises alone may not be sufficient in lowering all cases of HBP in all patients. Your doctor may also recommend additional medical treatment options for your specific condition. These treatments may include medication to thin your blood or possible surgical intervention to clear clogged arteries in your body.
