Which therapy would the nurse suggest to reduce the need for antihypertensive drugs?

Meditation is recognized for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can have a significant impact on blood pressure management. Research has shown that regular practice of meditation can lead to lower levels of stress hormones and enhanced emotional well-being, contributing to overall cardiovascular health. This can potentially help reduce the need for antihypertensive medications by addressing one of the contributing factors to high blood pressure—stress.

While yoga also promotes relaxation and has cardiovascular benefits, meditation specifically focuses on mental relaxation and mindfulness, which can be more directly associated with decreased blood pressure in certain studies. Herbal supplements and hydrotherapy may offer some benefits, but their effectiveness in reducing reliance on antihypertensive drugs can vary significantly and often lacks the robust evidence supporting the efficacy of meditation. Thus, meditation stands out as a powerful technique to complement traditional medical treatments for hypertension.