In the United States alone, one in 3 people have high blood pressure (32% of adults) and only 54% of them have the problem under control. And this problem can lift your head very unexpectedly, which is why knowing at least a few quick fixes, such as acupressure points, to lower your blood pressure.
High blood pressure, along with severe discomfort, can also put you at risk for heart disease and stroke. So what should you do when you are not feeling well and there is nothing available to help?
LV 3
The point between the big toe and the second toe is called liver 3 (LV 3) and should not be overlooked in hypertension treatments.
Apply pressure for one minute to help your body with a variety of problems, from blood pressure to period pain to anxiety.
In general, your feet have various pressure points that, when massaged, can greatly improve your health.
Ll 4
LI 4 (Large Intestine 4) is a point of easy access in your hand. You can apply pressure with the thumb of the other hand for a while or treat it with a pulsating movement.
Stimulating this location treats chronic pain and increases immunity, as well as relieves hypertension.
PC 6
PC 6 (Pericardium 6 or “Inner Gate”) is a pressure point on the inside of the forearm. To find it, go approximately 3 fingers across your wrist and point to the middle.
Helps the heart and stabilizes blood pressure by regulating the circulatory system. It can also treat nausea, headaches, and motion sickness.
GB 20
GB 20 (Gallbladder 20 or the “Wind Pool”) are actually 2 points on your neck on either side of the vertebra and just below the base of the skull.
To “activate” these points, you must apply medium pressure for approximately one minute at a time.
Keep your hands steady and don’t involve any other movement. When you do this to yourself, use your thumbs. This can also relieve neck tension and treat fever and eye problems.
GV 20
GV 20 (Governor Vase 20 or “One Hundred Convergences”) is a pressure point at the top of your head. You can find it in the middle of the head, imagining a line that goes from one ear to the other.
You can massage or press this point to lower your blood pressure, treat dizziness, or just to feel more rested.
Blood Pressure Remedies
Along with all the quick fixes, there are also things you can do to control your blood pressure naturally.
Power walking not only makes your heart “work out,” but it also releases endorphins, which affect your overall health.
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet includes lots of fruits and vegetables with whole grains. It also suggests that you avoid processed foods, foods with saturated fat, and fatty dairy and meat products.
The three deadly sins of hypertension are nicotine, alcohol, and stress. All of these things put unnecessary pressure on the heart and vascular system and increase the risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
Swap the salt for spices. Increased salt intake causes your body to retain fluids and causes an increase in blood pressure. You can even lose extra calcium with frequent urination due to fluid retention. By reducing your salt intake, you won’t lose extra calcium and will help your bones stay strong. Try using spices and herbs to flavor your food.
With a ridiculous number of people suffering from hypertension, it makes sense to try to prevent it in every possible way. What are your ways to stay healthy? If we didn’t mention them, share them in the comments!