What is Hypotension?
Hypotension is the medical term for low blood pressure. While high blood pressure often receives more attention, low blood pressure can be just as harmful to our health. In this condition, blood pressure levels drop below 90/60 mm Hg. Doctors consider low blood pressure relatively harmless unless it begins to cause dizziness, fainting, or even shock. Other symptoms of hypotension may include headaches, chest pain, fainting spells, persistent fatigue, and vomiting.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure may be triggered by various factors such as decreased blood volume, anemia, nutritional deficiencies, heart problems, hormonal changes, and more. In advanced cases, it can reduce the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain and other vital organs. While it may not be as dangerous as high blood pressure (hypertension), it is important to address it and take appropriate precautions.
You can support your well-being by practicing yoga and incorporating the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda into your lifestyle. This natural and holistic approach can help you feel better and minimize the side effects of hypotension. Attend the free session "Ayurveda: The Path to Health and Balance" to learn more.
How Yoga Helps?
Simple changes in your daily habits can help you stay safe. Proper care and guidance can restore your blood pressure to a healthy range. Regular practice of yoga asanas (postures) can enhance blood circulation and be an effective self-help method.
Start with gentle yoga poses and observe their positive effects. However, be cautious—sudden movements may cause dizziness or fainting and should be avoided. It's best to consult a certified yoga instructor who can recommend a safe combination of poses. You can also join a course with The Art of Living Foundation to learn how to practice these exercises effectively at home.
It’s no secret that most illnesses are linked to stress. Yoga and breathing techniques support a calm and healthy lifestyle. Learn more in the Happiness Program.
Recommended Yoga Techniques
Kapalabhati Pranayama
Improves blood circulation and calms the mind.
Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
Enhances blood flow to the brain, helping to relieve dizziness and fatigue.
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)
Calms the mind and releases tension from the body.
Pavanamuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose)
Boosts blood circulation and relieves tension in the back.
Shishuasana (Child’s Pose)
Releases stress from the body and soothes the mind.
Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
Improves blood flow to the brain, reducing dizziness and fatigue.
Precautions
Ensure you’re breathing properly during yoga practice. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. Experts often recommend increasing salt and caffeine intake, as they may help raise blood pressure levels—but always consult your doctor before making dietary changes.
Meditation for Hypotension
Yoga meditation is an ancient science which, combined with yoga postures, calms the mind, makes the body more flexible, and fills you with energy and enthusiasm for personal and professional life. Meditation is beneficial for insomnia, headaches, dizziness, and many other symptoms associated with low blood pressure. You can learn to meditate correctly in a course with The Art of Living Foundation. Free seminars are also available, where you can find the right program for your needs.
While yoga helps develop both the body and mind and brings many health benefits, it is not a substitute for medication prescribed for hypotension. It is important to learn and practice yoga under the supervision of a trained Art of Living Yoga teacher. In the case of medical conditions, always consult a doctor before starting.
Ayurveda for Hypotension
In addition to yoga, a balanced Ayurvedic diet can support and speed up the process of normalizing blood pressure levels. Since food and fluid intake are vital to our well-being, they must be tailored to our health needs. Consult an Ayurvedic therapist to determine your individual nutritional requirements that may support your fight against hypotension. Attend the free seminar "Ayurveda: The Path to Health"—it’s free of charge, but offers plenty of valuable advice on how to live a healthier life and what to include in your daily routine to feel better.