8 Lifestyle Changes to Lower Blood Pressure and How Reflexology Helps
In addition to making healthier lifestyle choices, studies show that reflexology can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. First what are these and what do they mean?
Systolic blood pressure is the top number in a pressure reading which measures the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart beats. The diastolic blood pressure is the bottom number which measures the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart rests. According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) the following shows the ranges from normal to high blood pressure:
Normal: less than 120/less than 80
At risk:120-139/80-89
High: 140 or higher/90 or higher
The Mayo Clinic lists 8 lifestyle changes that help manage blood pressure:
Lose Extra Pounds. Even 5-10 pounds can make a difference in reducing blood pressure.
Exercise Regularly. Aim for 30 min. most days. The best exercises include walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, dancing, and even strength training.
Healthy Diet. Includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy
Reduce Sodium. 1,500 mg/day or less
Limit alcohol. No more than 1 drink/day. (1 drink = 12 oz beer, 5 oz wine, 1.5 oz 80 proof liquor)
Quit Smoking
Reduce Caffeine. Not everyone is affected by caffeine, however. To determine if you are, check your blood pressure within 30 min of drinking a caffeinated beverage.
Reduce Stress. REFLEXOLOGY is a stress buster!
It is proven that reflexology relaxes the body. The pressure techniques of reflexology change the body’s basic level of tension, and can be measured by brain waves (EEG), blood pressure, pulse rate, and anxiety. My own clients have been able to see the benefits of reflexology by measuring their own blood pressure before and after a session through their wearable technology. In every instance, there has been a decrease in their blood pressure. This not only reassures my clients that they are receiving the benefits of reflexology, but it helps validate the claim that reflexology can impact physiological measures.
