BY TEAM FOURTH FRONTIER DESK
Yoga, when performed mindfully reduces stress-induced hypertension, by addressing its underlying causes. Here are 5 poses to reduce hypertension.
Adho Mukha Shvanasana (Downward-facing Dog Pose): This yoga pose improves circulation and reduces stress, which contributes to hypertension. [Source: yogainternational]
Stand on your four limbs i.e. your hands and your toes. Then lift your hips up and back, straightening your arms and legs into an inverted V-shape while relaxing the head and neck.
Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend Pose): This yoga pose increases the blood flow to the head and neck region and calms your mind. [Source: yogainternational]
Start with a standing position, bend forward from the hips, reaching towards your toes. Keep your knees slightly bent if necessary to avoid straining your back.
Pashchimottanasana (Posterior Stretch Pose): This position helps to control hypertension and reduces fat deposits in the abdomen area, which facilitates weight loss. [Source: yogainternational]
To perform this pose, sit with your legs extended in front of you, then bend forward from the hips, reaching towards your toes.
Halasana (Plow Pose): This pose improves circulation, stimulates the thyroid gland, and reduces stress and hypertension. [Source: yogainternational]
To perform Halasana, Lie on your back, and use your core strength to lift your legs and hips off the floor. Your neck remains relaxed and on the floor.
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose): This pose calms down the nervous system and helps to regulate the blood pressure in the body. [Source: yogainternational]
Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Then, lift your hips up, using your hands and feet for support.