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Lower Blood Pressure Naturally

Many people do not like the idea of taking medication for high blood pressure so they are curious to know if there are ways to lower blood pressure naturally. The answer is a resounding yes and the answer exists in two words-healthy lifestyle. People who eat a healthy well balanced and include lots of fruits and vegetables and whole grains in their daily diet have a lesser chance of developing high blood pressure and if they do happen to develop it (as the cause is very often unknown) a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants help lower blood pressure naturally. Giving up the cigarette habit and drinking as little alcohol as possible are other excellent ways to lower blood pressure naturally.

Regular physical activity is another way to lower blood pressure naturally and to help keep your arteries as free of fatty buildup as possible. Always start out slow especially if you have been physically inactive for quite some time and set fitness goals that are reasonable. Vary the type of exercises you do so you will not get bored. Choose non-competitive types of exercises and if you choose to walk or run, either find a walking or running buddy or take along your Discman for some tunes and some company. Studies have shown that when walking alone, music will keep your mind entertained and you are less likely to think about how you are exerting yourself.

Many research studies have borne out the fact that aerobic exercise serves to release endorphins in the brains. Endorphins are "fell good" hormones or natural substances that can make a person feel happier, more self-confident and they contribute to a better overall attitude. For those who do not know what "aerobic" exercise is, aerobic simply means oxygen. When you are doing aerobic exercise to lower blood pressure naturally, you are working your muscles in an "oxygen rich state." In order for an exercise to be aerobic it must be steady but performed at a comfortable and not exhausting pace, it must last a minimum of 12 minutes and it must make use of the lower body muscles. Examples of popular aerobic exercises include walking, running, climbing the stairs, cycling, dancing and rowing.

Another way to lower blood pressure naturally is to learn simple ways to manage stress. It is easier than it sounds but it can be done. Finding effective means of calming oneself and relaxation is a must. Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and hypnotherapy (the Western world's answer to meditation) are excellent ways to relax and bust stress. Some health experts recommend taking the time to "combine opposites" in your life is a surefire way to lower blood pressure naturally and lower levels of stress at the same time. What this means is making time for deep relaxation while also finding the time for aerobic exercise. A suggestion is to go for a walk after supper that can serve to both energize as well as soothe you and then come home and meditate or do some deep breathing exercises before going to bed.