How Yoga and Meditation Can Help Lower Blood Pressure
For people managing high blood pressure, medication is often a necessary part of treatment. But research increasingly shows that lifestyle changes — especially yoga and meditation — can play a powerful role in lowering blood pressure and supporting long-term heart health.
Yoga, which combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and focused relaxation, has been shown in multiple studies to reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. A 2022 review in the journal Current Hypertension Reports found that participants practicing yoga regularly experienced average drops of 5 to 10 mmHg in systolic pressure — results similar to adding a second medication in some cases.
Meditation, especially mindfulness-based practices, can also help lower blood pressure by reducing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. The American Heart Association (AHA) has endorsed meditation as a supportive strategy for blood pressure control, especially for people who experience stress-related spikes in readings.
At Neighbor Care Pharmacy, we believe that whole-person care means more than prescriptions. For patients with hypertension, we often suggest exploring gentle yoga or meditation — even just 10–15 minutes a day — to complement their medical regimen. Not only can these practices lower blood pressure, but they also improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall wellbeing.
Of course, no lifestyle change should replace prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider. But when combined with the right treatment plan, yoga and meditation can be a safe, effective, and empowering way to take charge of your health.
If you’re curious about how yoga or meditation might support your heart health, speak with our pharmacy team. We’re happy to point you toward safe resources and support your health journey — one breath at a time.