Being diagnosed with high blood pressure can feel like another weight added to your shoulders. You already have to balance your work and home life, and now you also need to keep track of another factor. However, having high blood pressure isn’t the end of the world. There are many methods for how to manage your high blood pressure naturally without stressing out. It’s all about accountability, patience, and management over your life and the influences around you. So take life back by the reins and get back in control; you got this.
Watch Your Weight
A significant factor that plays into high blood pressure is what your put in your body. Blood pressure often increases due to weight gain, disrupting your breathing when you sleep and increasing your risk of other health issues. Thankfully, monitoring what you eat and managing your weight are some of the most practical ways to manage your high blood pressure naturally. Even losing a small amount of weight can significantly lower your blood pressure, especially if you’re overweight or obese. Additionally, it’ll reduce the amount of weight your body carries throughout the day, decreasing physical stress on the body. Start slowly by finding an easy routine to follow and increase it from there as you get more comfortable.
Reduce Smoking and Drinking
Drinking and smoking can also have a significant effect on your blood pressure. Each cigarette you smoke increases your blood pressure for long periods. If you cut out smoking, your blood pressure will naturally lower and improve your overall health. Additionally, consider reducing your consumption of alcohol. Drinking generous amounts of liquor can significantly raise your blood pressure.
If you experience withdrawals from liquor and smoking, try to distract yourself with satisfyingly healthy meals, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Consuming foods with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products can lower blood pressure considerably.
Minimize Environmental Stressors
Stress does a number on blood pressure, raising it significantly when you least expect it. So take a step back and observe what causes you the most anxiety, whether it’s a long day at work or your children being stubborn. Find avenues to reduce your stress.
Driving can also cause a lot of stress, especially if you already have high blood pressure. A calming driving tip is to take deep breaths in moments of high stress. After you come home from your commute, take a moment to decompress and calm your nerves if the drive was challenging for you.
Overall, make sure you’re resting and taking advantage of good habits to help your blood pressure, because life is all about feeling good and doing good for yourself.
