What do you usually do after a long day at work, when you're feeling stressed and tired? When your heart is beating fast. Most likely you're tempted to just veg out on the couch. Is it likely to help you feel much better? Instead, why not try watching some inspirational videos? What is the link between inspiration and blood pressure?
Do inspirational videos help to lower stress?
A study published in Nature [1] found that watching immersive videos can actually boost mood and wellbeing, reduce stress by 14%, and increase the feeling of happiness. The study participants who watched the videos were more likely to report feeling positive and engaged, and they had lower levels of stress hormones.
The researchers believe that the videos may have their effects by inducing feelings of awe, which is a state of wonder and amazement that can have a positive impact on our emotions and well-being. Awe can help us to connect with something larger than ourselves, which can make us feel more grounded and less stressed.
Participants of ancient mindfulness practices like slow breathing and meditation also experience the feeling of being grounded and less stressed. These practices have been scientifically proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate [2].
What kind of inspirational videos induce the feeling of awe?
Researchers found that videos that show nature, or people doing acts of kindness, are more likely to be awe-inspiring than videos that are simply about achieving goals or overcoming challenges.
If you're looking for a way to boost your mood and wellbeing, why not give inspirational videos a try? You might be surprised at how effective they can be.
Can Inspirational Videos Can Help You Lower Blood Pressure?
If you're concerned about your blood pressure, watching inspirational videos can also be a helpful tool. The American Heart Association highlights a strong link between stress and high blood pressure [3]. As one of the solutions to this challenge they propose maintaining a positive attitude and practicing relaxation.
The researchers believe that the videos may have their effects by reducing stress hormones, such as cortisol. Cortisol can raise blood pressure, so reducing its levels can help to lower it. It seems like the word 'inspiration' is not limited to the vocabulary of artists and writers.
The mission of our team is to help our users to lower blood pressure and heart rate naturally, without medication. Many guiding videos on our YouTube channel and BreathNow app include a combination of slow breathing (and meditation) and inspiring nature scenes which amplify their healing effect. In addition to the popular iPhone version of BreathNow we just released an Android version. Try it now, most of the app features are free.
Conclusion
Inspirational videos can be a powerful tool for boosting mood, reducing stress, and improving overall wellbeing. They can also help to lower blood pressure. So if you're looking for a way to feel better and live a healthier life, why not give inspirational videos a try?
Have you ever tried watching inspirational videos to improve your mood or wellbeing? If so, what was your experience?
References
Effectiveness of Immersive Videos in Inducing Awe: An Experimental Study, Nature.
Meditation and Cardiovascular Risk Reduction, A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.