Recent research suggests that relaxation techniques like tai chi, yoga, and meditation may help temporarily lower high blood pressure. Experts found that these practices, along with breathing exercises, can help lower blood pressure for a short-term in those already diagnosed with the condition.
Researchers from the University of Bristol, UK, emphasised the need for longer and more rigorous studies to confirm whether relaxation methods can effectively treat high blood pressure in the long-run.
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Analysing 182 previously published studies, the researchers found that most relaxing mechanisms seemed to lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in about three months.
The team, writing in the journal BMJ Medicine, concluded: “The results of our study indicated that many relaxation interventions show promise for reducing blood pressure in the short term but the longer term effects are unclear. Future studies in this area should include adequate follow-up to establish whether the effects on blood pressure persist over time, both while the relaxation interventions are ongoing and after they have been completed.”
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Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be caused by factors such as an unhealthy diet high in salt, lack of physical activity, obesity, stress, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and underlying health conditions like kidney disease or hormonal disorders
