Ways to Improve Blood Circulation
Your body is constantly circulating fluids. About five quarts of blood is pumped through your body every minute. As blood circulates, it delivers oxygen and nutrients to the body and gets rid of excess waste. So when your blood flow is reduced, it means your body isn’t able to perform certain functions effectively. For example, feet or hands falling asleep is a phenomenon most of us have dealt with. However poor blood circulation has other serious effects. Reduced blood flow can cause various symptoms such as pain, digestive issues, numbness, cold hands and feet, muscle cramps, and lack of stamina. Individuals who exercise intensively and regularly such as athletes may suffer from poor performance if their blood flow is reduced. Poor blood circulation is caused by a number of conditions. Diabetes, obesity, smoking, and artery disease are some of the causes of poor blood circulation.
Blood circulation can be improved by certain methods and eating certain foods. Let’s find out ways to improve blood circulation.
Get a Massage- Massages are a great way to relax and de-stress. But they also have some other health benefits such as improving blood circulation. Massages can stimulate blood flow, speed up circulation, and allow new blood flow. During a massage, pressure is applied to specific parts of your body which has the power to move blood and improve the flow. The motions of a massage assist in flushing lactic acid from your muscles. It can also support better circulation of your body’s lymph fluid. Lymph fluid is responsible for carrying metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs, thus leading to lower blood pressure and improved body function
Exercise- Exercise is one of the best ways to keep your body moving and getting the blood circulating. It has several other benefits such as weight loss, weight management, improving mental health, toning your body, keeping you fit and active. Any exercise can improve your blood circulation. People walk after meals to digest the food and also improve their blood flow. You can also do intensive exercises if you are comfortable and see your blood circulation improve immensely.

Dry Brushing- If you don’t prefer massages then dry brushing is another excellent technique to get your blood flowing. You can do it every morning after you wake up or before bedtime. Dry brushing allows you to massage your body, increase circulation and get rid of toxins in your body. You have to do it properly or you can cause damage to your skin. Read more about dry brushing and the technique here.
Drink Water- Drinking enough water can solve many of your body’s health related issues. Among them, poor blood circulation is one which is caused by dehydration. Drink enough water so your body gets rid of toxins, and causes the blood to flow effectively.
Reduce Stress- Stress can have a damaging and long-term impact on our bodies. It causes illnesses like obesity, heart diseases, depression, and anxiety, etc. Stress causes your blood pressure to be increased or reduced, depending on your tendencies and it can significantly affect blood circulation. Stress leads to poor eating habits, drinking, and possible addictions. That’s why doctors recommended a healthy diet and lifestyle to combat stress. The steps to reduce stress also help you to increase blood circulation and improve blood flow.
Cut back on Alcohol- Excess consumption of alcohol can cause your body to suffer symptoms like hardening of arteries. That causes poor blood flow and leads to lack of circulation. Moderate to average alcohol consumption is safe but it depends on your health, age, and other factors. Cut back on alcohol as much as you can to improve blood flow.
Stretch- For people who spend the majority of their days sitting or working from a chair, it can cause poor posture, backache, neck pain, and poor blood circulation. A few minutes of basic stretching can solve all these problems and help your health tremendously. Stretching works as a way of increasing blood flow to your organs. Get up every 1-2 hours, walk around, or do some easy stretches to keep your blood flowing.
Elevate your Legs- Raising your legs is an amazing way to take pressure off them and your veins. Regular elevation of your legs can lead to improved circulation, reducing swelling and cramps and draining the veins. Try elevating your legs daily for 15-20 minutes and you will see a noticeable difference in your circulation.
Lose Weight- Obese or overweight people find it harder to improve blood circulation. They also suffer from symptoms like blocked arteries or plaque buildup in the arteries, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Consume a healthy diet and practice daily physical activity to ensure your weight stays as required and your blood circulation isn’t affected negatively. Consult a doctor or medical expert to find a diet suitable for you.