It’s a good idea to manage your blood pressure – because having high blood pressure will shorten your life. There are four levels of blood pressure which are:

• High blood pressure, stage 2, considered mild to severe -- the top number is 160 or higher (systolic), or 100 or higher for the bottom number (diastolic).

• High blood pressure, stage 1, considered mild –the top number is 140-159 (systolic), or 90-99 for the bottom number (diastolic).

• At risk for high blood pressure -- the top number is 120-139 (systolic), or 80-89 bottom number (diastolic).

• Normal blood pressure—the top number is less than 120 (systolic), or the bottom number is less than 80 (diastolic).

You will need to do your own blood pressure monitoring to keep track of daily fluctuations. There are quite a few brands of blood pressure monitors. Riester blood pressure monitors -- is a high quality brand --that is easy to use.

There are many things you can do to lower your blood pressure:

• Begin with lowering your stress level – this may be easier than you think. Find some quiet time during the day to just sit back and relax. Think of some positive things that have recently happened in your life and dwell on those positive things. Don’t be so critical of your self – or others. Slow your pace a little – you can always do it tomorrow.

• If you are obese – lose some weight. It may not be as hard as you think. You may have failed before – or had limited success in the past – but once you lower your stress level – losing weight becomes a little easier.

• Make sure blood pressure monitoring is something you do every day.

• If you smoke – stop smoking now. One of the best gifts you can give your body is to stop smoking. If you can’t do it on your own – ask your doctor for help.

• Eat healthy -- instead of sugary drinks – drink water or fruit juices. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Some research is showing that a diet high in fiber can lower your blood pressure.

• Drink alcohol in moderation – it’s ok to have a beer or a glass of wine – but don’t overdo it.

• Start a light exercise regimen – start off slow – like a nice brisk walk around your neighborhood. You can take an empty room in your house and put in some light weights. Do warm-up exercises and some stretching – coupled with a light-weight workout. It doesn’t have to be heavy weights.

• Realize just how special you are – treat yourself to a gift – every so often.

• Purchase and use one of the blood pressure monitors available at a medical supply store – so you can do your own blood pressure monitoring. Riester blood pressure monitors are easy to use --durable and accurate with a great reputation.

By doing some of the things above you really can make a difference in your blood pressure.