If you already practice yoga, the results of the latest study will not surprise you. Many people take up yoga as a way to relax and relieve stress. Now a study led by Dr. Debbie Cohen of the University of Pennsylvania has found that doing yoga may help those with mild to moderate high blood pressure avoid medication.
How the Study was Conducted
The study included 120 men and women between the ages of 38 and 62, who were tracked for 6 months. The participants were divided into three groups. One group followed a program of walking, nutrition and weight counseling; the second group did yoga two or three times a week, while a third group did both. While all three groups showed positive effects on blood pressure, the yoga group decreased their blood pressure at both the 12- and 24-month marks.
Should You Practice Yoga?
Yoga is a multi-disciplinary practice, which includes exercise, meditation and controlled deep breathing. There are several types of yoga, one for every age group and level of physical ability. If done properly under the tutelage of an experienced instructor, there is no risk to doing yoga and many health benefits, including increased strength, balance and mental stability. Yoga has also been shown very effective in combating depression.
Where Do I Find a Yoga Class?
Your local YMCA usually has yoga classes available. Local hospitals and wellness centers may also provide yoga instruction. While there is usually a reasonable charge for yoga classes, some organizations offer them for free. If you live in a seaside community, check for beach yoga classes, where the warm sand and air are helpful in relaxing tight muscles.
Should I Get Permission From My Doctor to do Yoga?
If you have serious medical restrictions, you should always consult your physician before starting any new exercise. Yoga is one of the safest of all exercises, so there is generally no reason you can't participate. Yoga has even been shown to help with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, so don't hesitate to ask your physician if yoga can help you.
Yoga helps lower blood pressure, but the evidence is not definitive that yoga alone is enough to control high blood pressure. However, practicing yoga two or three times a week may help you decrease your medication. Your doctor is the only one who can tell you for sure.