Ancient Practice TAMES Blood Pressure
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 10, 2024
Like an invisible thief in the night, high blood pressure sneaks up on you, stealing your health one day at a time.
Left unchecked, this “silent killer” sets the stage for a catastrophe—sending your risk for heart attack, stroke, dementia, kidney failure, and blindness soaring.
This preventable condition claims over half a million lives every year, making it America’s number one risk factor for death.
In fact, only about 1 in 4 adults with the disease have it under control.
But the good news is YOU can be one of them. And it’s easier than you think.
If your blood pressure readings have crept into the prehypertensive range (systolic between 120 and 139 or diastolic between 80-89 mmHg), it’s time to act before it progresses to full hypertension.
But don’t worry. If you’ve already been diagnosed with mild high blood pressure, it’s NOT too late to send your numbers back in the right direction.
Taming high blood pressure starts with one critical lifestyle change. You’re going to have to commit to moving MORE.
But don’t panic. Remember, I told you this will be EASIER than you think. And that’s where some new research comes into play.
It turns out the ancient practice of tai chi could stop this health thief dead in its tracks BEFORE it steals your future.
Tai chi is technically a martial art. It combines slow movements, controlled breathing, and a calm state of mind.
And scientists say it can have a remarkable effect on blood pressure.
A growing body of research shows that tai chi effectively reduces blood pressure in people with prehypertension and mild hypertension. A recent study published in JAMA Open Network confirms this.
By the end of the study, a tai chi group had significantly lower systolic blood pressure readings than an aerobics group.
Tai chi’s health benefits are rooted in its ability to simultaneously relieve stress and improve heart fitness. Regular practice strengthens the heart and helps blood circulate efficiently throughout the body.
Over time, increased mindfulness, stress resilience, and aerobic conditioning create positive changes in overall heart function and lower blood pressure.
Starting a tai chi practice is easy, even for beginners. Many places, like local YMCAs, offer introductory courses that cover foundations like stances, transitions, and breathing. There are also free online videos and DVD courses designed to teach folks to use tai chi to improve their health.
Practicing tai chi for 15 to 20 minutes daily is enough to significantly improve blood pressure and overall health.
P.S. Also, while tai chi is a great place to start, don’t stop there. CLICK HERE to discover even more natural ways to dial down your blood pressure.
Source:
Li X, Chang P, Wu M, et al. Effect of Tai Chi vs Aerobic Exercise on Blood Pressure in Patients With Prehypertension: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(2):e2354937. doi:10. 1001/ jamanetworkopen. 2023. 54937
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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