How Can Meditation Lower the Risk of Heart Disease?
By Gary Hightower 8 am on
Heart disease is one of the most common health conditions among seniors. The damaged blood vessels and blood clots associated with heart disease can cause a variety of dangerous conditions, so it’s important for seniors to do everything possible to lower their heart disease risk. If older adults want to promote their heart health, meditation is an effective method. Here’s what you need to know about using meditation to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Why Does Meditation Reduce Heart Disease Risk?
Meditation reduces blood pressure levels. The deep, even breathing associated with meditation encourages the body to relax. All of the calming effects lead to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone associated with increased blood pressure and inflammation. Meditation mostly leads to immediate calm, but when practiced repeatedly, the body gets better at managing stress in the long term. Professional caregivers can also help seniors reduce stress and enjoy a high quality of life. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care. Irving Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
What Does Science Have to Say about Meditation & Heart Disease?
In 2017, the American Heart Association analyzed studies about meditation’s effect on heart disease. According to lead physician Dr. Glenn Levine, the results were very encouraging, and the examination of hundreds of studies supported the idea that meditation can be useful alongside traditional prevention methods. A 2012 study published in Circulation found that there was a 48 percent reduction in heart attack and stroke risk among subjects who practiced meditation for five years.
What Is the Simplest Way to Meditate?
Meditation is a method of practicing mindfulness or concentration. The goal is to become more aware of the body without focusing on any external distractions or specific thoughts. The most basic form of meditation starts with getting comfortable in a bed or chair or on a cushion and then closing the eyes and breathing naturally. While breathing, seniors should focus on how their bodies move with each breath, paying attention to the chest, stomach, rib cage, mouth, and nose. They should try to avoid focusing on any specific thoughts, letting the mind wander around or drifting off to sleep. Engaging in meditation is just one of the many ways aging adults can boost their health and wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare.Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Are There Any Other Ways to Meditate?
Most meditation for heart disease focuses on practicing mindfulness with the above technique, but it can also be helpful to concentrate on a specific point. Examples include repeating a simple mantra, listening to a repetitive noise, watching the ocean, and looking into a fire. For religious seniors, it can bring comfort to focus on religious expressions. Some people like to meditate outdoors, while others find it easier to stay in a quiet place indoors. If interested in a more social activity, seniors can even join meditation classes. Helping a loved one practice meditation can be difficult, especially for family caregivers who have other tasks to tend to. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Irving, TX, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at (817) 591-1580 today.
