10 Minutes to Lower Blood Pressure

According to an article in the August 2010 issue of Good Housekeeping, it doesn't get easier than this tip.  You can reduce blood pressure simply by sitting on a couch and squeezing a ball, a new search review has found.  What's more, these "workout" sessions will move your numbers even more than walking, lifting weights, or other sweat-inducing activities. 

In the studies, people who squeezed a ball or hand grip for two minutes at a stretch and resting, then repeating four times in a 10 minute session.  This can cut the systolic pressure (the top number) about 10 points and their diastolic, about seven.  To try it, choose a firm ball, like a new tennis ball; do it three times a week, and check for results in about six weeks.  And keep at it: In the studies, pressures crept back up a few weeks after people stopped.