This is a good question because there are a lot of relaxation techniques that claim to be able to lower blood pressure but few really work.
Some of the most popular relaxation techniques include:
- Transcendental Meditation
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation
- Biofeedback
Other relaxation techniques include:
- Listing to Classical Music (or other relaxing sounds)
- Autogenic training
- Relaxation through simple instructions
A recent metal analysis compared all research done on relaxation techniques used for reducing high blood pressure. Only studies conducted with proper controls where included:
The meta analysis found that only Transcendental Meditation was significantly effective at reducing high blood pressure. The other techniques showed some lessening of blood pressure, but where not more effective than a placebo (keep in mind placebo is used as a treatment for high blood pressure too).
See resource links for a copy of the full meta analysis.
Hypotension
Reducing stress and increasing relaxation. Reducing pain and muscle soreness and tension. Improving circulation, energy and alertness. Lowering heart rate and blood pressure.
The National heart,lung,and blood institute is a great page to read up on lowering your blood pressure. They are many sites available about how to achieve a lower blood pressure reading.
Potassium
The point of elevating the feet and lowering the head is not to raise blood pressure, but to use gravity to cause an increased flow of blood to the brain.
Potassium (bananas) and magnesium (dark green vegetables) are good foods for lowering blood pressure. Note that lowering blood pressure is a great way, but don't forget to eat foods that also prevent high blood pressure.
Hibiscus tea can help lower high blood pressure. If you drink it everyday, studies have shown that it can help lower high blood pressure. Make sure to make all of the changes your doctor tells you to when lowering your blood pressure.
No. Opiates are not for the use of lowering blood pressure, unless your doctor is confused.
Hypotension in surgery refers to the intentional lowering of the patient's arterial blood pressure during the procedure. Lowering blood pressure has been shown to reduce blood loss and the consequent need for transfusions.
Studies have shown that garlic may have a modest effect in lowering blood pressure levels, but more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness.
Consuming spinach can help in lowering your blood pressure because it contains potassium, folate and magnesium.
No, simvastatin is a cholesterol lowering medication.