High Blood Pressure Alert
High blood pressure is a serious health concern that many people deal with. It's crucial to modify certain activities, including yoga, to ensure that your
blood pressure doesn't spike. The expert has pinpointed a list of yoga poses, advising individuals with hypertension to steer clear of them. This guidance aims to provide a safer yoga experience for individuals. The poses include Handstand (Adho Mukha Vrksasana), Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III), Extended triangle pose (Utthita Trikonasana), Chakrasana or Wheel pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana), Intense forward bends (Paschimottanasana), Headstand (Sirsasana), Plow pose (Halasana), Camel pose (Ustrasana), Shoulderstand (Sarvangasana) and Ear closing pose (Karnapirasana). Recognizing these potentially risky asanas allows individuals to adjust their practice accordingly.
Handstand (Adho Mukha Vrksasana)
Handstand, also known as Adho Mukha Vrksasana, requires significant effort to maintain the inverted position. This particular pose can cause a notable increase in blood pressure, especially during the initial phase. The pressure buildup in the head and upper body, when inverted, can exacerbate hypertension, leading to potential health issues. This pose is best avoided by those managing high blood pressure. People who have hypertension need to be extra careful with such poses as they may cause an increase in blood pressure because of the pressure on the head.
Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III)
Warrior III, or Virabhadrasana III, challenges balance and core strength, and it can lead to a rise in blood pressure as the body works to stabilize. This asana requires sustained muscle engagement, which can increase the heart rate and blood pressure. Sustaining the pose for a prolonged period can strain the cardiovascular system, making it a less suitable choice for people with high blood pressure. It is better to avoid this pose to maintain a healthy blood pressure and focus on poses that won't stress the cardiovascular system.
Extended Triangle (Utthita Trikonasana)
The Extended Triangle Pose, or Utthita Trikonasana, may not seem as strenuous initially, but it can still cause a rise in blood pressure due to the sustained stretching and balancing act. This asana can impact the body's overall energy, and the required extension can potentially strain the cardiovascular system. For people with high blood pressure, this pose may pose a risk by indirectly increasing the heart rate and blood pressure, so it is better to avoid this pose.
Wheel Pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana)
Chakrasana or Wheel Pose, also known as Urdhva Dhanurasana, is a demanding backbend that greatly affects blood flow. Inversions and deep backbends, such as the Wheel Pose, can cause a sudden and significant surge in blood pressure. The physical intensity and the pressure on the chest may heighten blood pressure levels in individuals with hypertension. The expert advises against this pose because of its potential to strain the cardiovascular system.
Intense Forward Bends
Intense forward bends, such as Paschimottanasana, might seem relaxing, but they can affect blood pressure, especially if held for extended durations. Forward folds can sometimes put pressure on the abdomen. For individuals with high blood pressure, such poses may cause discomfort and increase the risk of further problems. The expert suggests steering clear of deep forward bends to prevent any cardiovascular strain. Instead, focus on gentler poses that do not elevate blood pressure.
Headstand (Sirsasana)
Headstand, or Sirsasana, is a well-known inversion that can be problematic for people with hypertension. The inverted position causes blood to rush to the head, increasing pressure within the skull. This effect can be extremely risky for those with high blood pressure, as it could lead to severe health issues. The expert recommends that individuals with hypertension do not practice this pose.
Plow Pose (Halasana)
The Plow Pose, or Halasana, is an inverted pose that can cause pressure in the neck and head. Inverted poses like the Plow Pose can affect blood circulation and might escalate blood pressure. This is a risk for anyone with high blood pressure. The expert advises that it is best to avoid this pose in order to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
The Camel Pose, Ustrasana, is a deep backbend. This pose is demanding and can impact the cardiovascular system, which might increase blood pressure. Deep backbends can place stress on the body and are potentially dangerous for those with hypertension. The expert recommends avoiding the Camel Pose to ensure safety during practice. It is important to focus on poses that are gentler and safer for the cardiovascular system.
Shoulderstand (Sarvangasana)
Shoulderstand, known as Sarvangasana, is a very common yoga posture. While it is often considered beneficial, it can elevate blood pressure. The inversion can affect blood flow, potentially elevating pressure levels. If you have hypertension, it is better to avoid this pose. If you still want to practice yoga, it is important to prioritize poses that will not strain the cardiovascular system. Consulting with a yoga instructor or health professional is recommended.
Ear Closing (Karnapirasana)
The Ear Closing Pose, or Karnapirasana, involves bending the knees close to the head and often can be a challenge. The pressure and possible compression in the neck area might lead to increased blood pressure. It is best to skip this pose if you have hypertension. If you are looking for a safe yoga practice, it is essential to focus on poses that don't put pressure on the head or affect blood circulation. Seeking guidance from a yoga professional would be helpful.
