Hypertension Benefits From Yoga For The Legs

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Hypertension occurs when the amount of blood pumped to your arteries is too much for them to handle. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to heart disease. Specific yoga poses used to stretch or strengthen the legs may also help treat hypertension. Consult with your doctor before practicing yoga to treat hypertension.

Janu Sirsasana

Janu Sirsasana, or head of the knee pose, is a seated forward bending pose that may help reduce blood pressure. While seated, bend your right knee and place the sole of the right foot against the inner left thigh. Reach your hands toward your left foot and bring your forehead to your left knee. Hold the pose for 30 seconds and repeat on the other side. This pose also stretches the hamstrings, buttocks and inner thighs.

Paschimottanasana

Paschimottanasana, or seated forward bend, is another pose used to reduce blood pressure. While seated, stretch both legs out in front of you. Reach your hands toward your feet as you try to keep your back straight. Try sitting on a folded towel or blanket for additional assistance. Hold the pose for 30 seconds. This pose also stretches the hamstrings.

Supta Baddha Konasana

Supta Baddha Konasana, or reclining bound angle pose, is used for stretching the inner thighs and also recommended by yoga teacher and Ayurvedic physician Aadil Palkhivala for the treatment of high blood pressure. To perform this pose, you will need a yoga bolster. While in a seated position, place the bolster behind you, touching your tailbone, perpendicular to your body. Next, bring the soles of your feet together and recline your upper body back onto the bolster. Relax your arms to the sides with your palms face up. Hold the pose for up to five minutes.

Setubandha Sarvangasana

Setubandha Sarvangasana, Sanskrit for bridge pose, may help combat hypertension, according to yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar. Bridge pose also relieves tired legs and may prevent varicose veins. While laying on your back, bend your knees and keep the knees and feet hip width distance apart. Lift your pelvis off the floor and relax your neck. Relax your arms with your palms face up and hold the pose for 30 seconds.