Effects of Yoga on Hypertension

by Dr. Swami Shankardevananda

Hypertension is one of many pschosomatic diseases which can be treated through a combination of yoga and traditional medicine. This disease is a symbol of other maladies from which mankind currently suffers and which cause seemingly endless suffering. The root cause of all diseases is the same:ignorance of our true nature and lack of awareness of who we really are.

This Book will help one gain a better understanding of physical, pranic, mental, pyschic and spiritual bodies. Once these are understood one can begin to kindle the flames of peace and good health. The disease can be kept at bay and even prevented from entering the body or mind.

This book is divided into three sections: cause, cure and practices. The first section describes the basic physiology of the cardiovascular system and the various causes of hypertension including psychological and pranic influences, lifestyle, stress and heredity. The yogic view is discussed in depth along with that of modern medicine.

The second, section on management, explains the yogic way to reduce blood pressure to normal levels through the practice of yoga, supplemented by lifestyle and mind management. The last section contains a weekly chart of yoga techniques, followed by clear instructions for individual practices.

Finally low blood pressure is dealt with in an appendix along with diet.