Sit Comfortably: Grab a chair that feels right for you – something with good support and no sinking cushions, like a dining chair. Plant your feet flat on the floor and keep your legs uncrossed. Rest your arm on a steady surface, like a table, making sure it’s at the same height as your heart. And when you wrap the cuff around your arm, make sure it’s snug, just above your elbow bend. If you’re not sure, ask your doctor to walk you through it.

Stay Calm: Before you start, take a breather. No smoking, no caffeine, and definitely no jumping jacks for at least half an hour. Give yourself a few minutes of peace and quiet to settle in before you hit that start button.

.Timing is Key: Try to make this a habit – measure your blood pressure at the same time every day. Maybe first thing in the morning and again in the evening. And it’s not just a one-time thing – keep it up daily, especially after any changes to your treatment plan, and leading up to your next check-up.

Double-Check: Don’t settle for just one reading. Take a couple, with about a minute between each. Jot down those numbers in your handy tracker or use the memory function on your monitor if it’s got one. And don’t forget to bring those numbers along when you see your doc.

Measure Over Bare Skin: Ensure accuracy by taking measurements directly on the skin, avoiding any clothing interference