What is hypotension or low blood pressure?
Low blood pressure or hypotension is a physical condition, where the blood pressure levels fall below 90/60 mm Hg. Doctors believe that low blood pressure is not really harmful, until it starts causing dizziness, fainting and even shock. Some other symptoms of hypotension include headache, chest pain, seizures, prolonged diarrhoea and vomiting.
Low blood pressure can be caused due to various reasons such as low blood volume, anaemia, nutritional deficiency, heart problems, and hormonal changes, amongst others. In advanced cases, it may lead to lack of oxygen supply and nutrients to the brain, and other vital organs.
Although hypotension is not as dangerous as high blood pressure (hypertension), practising certain precautions, and making some lifestyle alterations, can help you stay out of danger. Proper care and medication can bring your blood pressure level back to normal. Regular practice of physical exercises, like yoga , can improve blood flow in the body, and thus, alleviate low blood pressure. Additionally, a balanced ayurvedic diet can ease and speed up the process of normalising the blood pressure level. Listed below are some asanas and pranayamas in yoga for low BP patients.
Yoga poses for hypotension
Control your low blood pressure and start you journer to a healthier life. The following yoga asanas are recommended for low blood pressure patients:
- Uttanasana
- Adho Mukha Svanasana
- Pavanmuktasana
- Shishuasana
- Sarvangasana
- Matsyasana
Adho Mukha Svanasana
Adho Mukha Svanasana pose calms the brain and relieves the body of fatigue.
Pawanmuktasana
This pose enhances blood circulation and eases tension in the lower back.
Benefits of Pawanmuktasana.
Shishuasana
Click here to know how to do Shishuasna.
This pose relieves the body of stress and fatigue and calms the brain.
Sarvangasana
This pose improves the flow of blood to the brain and, thus, alleviates dizziness and fatigue. Sarvangasana is taught in the DSN program
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Matsyasana
This pose stretches the back and neck muscles and ensures proper and adequate flow of blood, throughout the body, thus helping to control blood pressure.
Know more about Matsyasana.
Uttanasana
This pose improves the flow of blood to the brain and thus alleviates dizziness and fatigue.
Pranayama for Low BP Patients
- Kapal Bhati Pranayama
- Bhastrika Pranayama
- Suryabhedi Pranayama
1. Kapal Bhati
This breathing technique improves blood circulation, and calms and uplifts the mind.
Benefits of Kapalbhati.
2. Bhastrika Pranayama
Bhastrika pranayama helps to regulate breathing – inhalation, retention and exhalation. It also purifies blood by ensuring that enough oxygen enters the system. It also relaxes the system.
3. Suryabhedi Pranayama
It helps to control the mind and slows the rate of breathing. As oxygen enters and toxins exit the body, at a relaxed pace, it soothes the mind, keeping the head cool, thus alleviating dizziness. This pranayama should be done under the guidance of a trained Sri Sri Yoga teacher, as it is an advanced pranayama. It is taught in the advanced Yoga course of Sri Sri Yoga Level2.
Precautions for Lower Blood Pressure
- Sudden movements may cause dizziness or fainting, and should be avoided.
- Make sure you breathe properly, while doing yoga.
- Drink plenty of water and stay away from alcohol.
- Experts also suggest increasing the intake of salt and caffeine, as they raise the blood pressure. However, it is strongly advised that you consult a qualified doctor, before making any dietary changes.
Yoga is an ancient science that promotes healthy living through postures, pranayamas and meditation. It also calms the mind and makes the body supple, filling you with renewed enthusiasm towards personal and professional life. So, roll out your mat and practise yoga, to become free of low blood pressure issues!
