Take a Deep Breath— And Lower Your Blood Pressure

Take a deep, slow breath in. Then breathe out just as slowly. Maintain that relaxed rhythm—about six breaths per minute—for 10 minutes. You’ve just lowered your blood pressure.

In one study, adults with high blood pressure used this same technique, with dramatic results: Their systolic blood pressure fell nearly 10 points, and their diastolic pressure fell about four points.

Here’s how to do it:

• Sit comfortably in a chair.
• Breathe in while slowly counting to five. Concentrate on how the air flows through your nose.
• Breathe out while slowly counting from six to 10. Keep focusing on the flow of air.
• Continue for 10 minutes.
• Repeat daily.