This is not to say that hypertension is outside of the mind/body relationship often discussed in the alternative medicine literature. In fact, there is ample evidence that the emotional state of an individual affects the physical state and vis a versa.

This ‘cross connection’ between the emotional state and the physical state takes place by way of the autonomic nervous system. It is certainly demonstrated by observation that physical sensations are perceived by the brain via the somatic sensory nerves just as physical action is performed via the motor nerves. Going further, it has recently been demonstrated that not only is the heart rate affected by the emotions but that the emotions are also affected by the heart rate. Researchers have been able to measure this connection using a tool that measures Heart Rate Variability (HRV). HRV is measured by instruments that sense the heart beat (often from a finger or ear sensor) and analyze the variability of the heart rate. What these researchers have found is that the more a person experiences negative emotions, stress or upset the more their heart beat shows an irregular pattern to it’s rhythm and when a person experiences positive emotions their heart rhythm is smooth and coherent. Not surprisingly this state of smoother and more coherent heart rate has been described as being ‘coherent’; one is said to be in a state of ‘coherence‘.

What is really helpful about this ‘cross-connection’ is that by working directly with the heart rate to bring it into a state of coherence, positive emotions are generated. Positive emotions are connected with a greater sense of well-being as well as improved social relationships. More importantly, it has been shown that by learning  how to access a state of coherence easily and returning to it regularly a person who experiences high blood pressure or hypertension is able to lower their blood pressure. This is a great non-pharmaceutical intervention to lower hypertension.

We have been following the development of these HRV Coherence trainers for many years. They started out as desktop pc software that used a finger sensor and then evolved into hand held portable devices. Now the company Heart Math has developed a hand held device that connects to the computer or can be used as a portable device which will upload its data to the computer once it is reconnected. This new trainer, the emWave 2 is truly remarkable in its design and function. Best of all, regular use has the real potential to lower blood pressure and improve feelings of well-being. You can take a look at the emWave 2 stress Reliever at LifeMatters.com.  It is definitely worth a look if you are interested in lowering your blood pressure naturally, without medication or if you are interested in reducing your blood pressure medicine. Certainly discuss this with your doctor, you may be surprised how supportive you will find him (or her).