As the days shorten and the nights grow chillier, fall has definitely arrived in full force. Many residents of Garland, Texas, associate fall with a time of renewal. That might be based on childhoods filled with first days of school or by the falling leaves making way for new growth in the spring.
Autumn also provides an opportunity to try a new approach to managing your blood pressure. Chuck Osuagwu, MD, and the team at Centerville Medical Center are honored to offer five ideas you might consider during this cozy season.
The best way to track progress with any health matter is by finding a way to quantify your improvements. When it comes to blood pressure, the two numbers most people find helpful are their blood pressure readings and their weight.
You can have your blood pressure measured during office visits at Centerville Medical Center. Still, many different at-home blood pressure monitors are also available that deliver accurate readings using simple equipment.
Check whether your insurance will cover the cost of a blood pressure monitor. Many good options are available for under $50.
When it comes to tracking your weight, don’t let yourself become overly focused on the numbers on the scale. You shouldn’t weigh yourself every day, as weight naturally fluctuates. Once a week or two is fine and will give you an idea of your progress over time.
Autumn brings on a plethora of delicious seasonal offerings. Planning your meals around what’s currently in season is a great way to nourish your body, save money, and reduce the environmental impact.
Pumpkins, winter squash, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes are all at their best during the chillier weather of autumn. Brussels sprouts, cranberries, carrots, parsnips, and beets are also excellent choices, not to mention the vast array of apples that come into season during the fall.
As the leaves begin to change color and fall from the trees, the landscape you see every day is transformed. Set aside some time to get outdoors and enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of autumn.
If you don’t live or work near natural areas, consider taking a short drive to access trails or greenways that offer plenty to look at. As you walk, make an effort to look for signs that fall has arrived and to enjoy this respite from the summer heat.
Restful sleep is one of the best ways to reduce high blood pressure. While avoiding late-day caffeine and shutting down screen time before bed are among the best ways to enhance sleep quality, your sleep environment is also important.
Consider changing your bedding to create a cozy reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your days. Sliding into a great set of sheets or resting your head on the perfect pillow can make it easier to fall asleep each night.
Lighting is also important, so be sure to choose bedside lamps that create a warm glow, rather than a harsh glare. Some people love the setting created by options like oil diffusers, white noise apps, and scented linen sprays.
As the holiday season approaches, take time to consider how the holidays may impact your stress levels. If gatherings or travel bring more stress than joy, now’s the time to consider alternative options.
By making these decisions early in the fall season, friends and loved ones have plenty of time to adjust to any changes you make. You’ll also avoid anxiety as the holidays draw near. Altering your holiday schedule and traditions can be challenging at first, but it can make future holiday seasons much less taxing.
Dr. Chuck loves collaborating with his patients on ways to reach and maintain healthy blood pressure levels. If you’d like guidance and support, book a visit at Centerville Medical Center this fall.
We’re happy to check your readings and help you structure a plan to manage your blood pressure more effectively. We offer online scheduling as one option, and phone scheduling is always available during normal business hours.
