6 Yoga Poses to Improve Circulation

Proper circulation throughout the body is essential to move through a healthy day-to-day life. In addition to your diet, there are numerous exercises and positions that can help improve blood and oxygen flow. One of the benefits of practicing yoga is the overall improvement in circulation. The focus on proper breathing during practice increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood. In yoga, most of the poses are designed to optimize circulation from your head to your toes. Here are 6 poses that you should practice every day to help:
 
Legs-Up-the Wall (supported on a block): Inverting with your legs up the wall is the exact opposite of our standard seated posture throughout the day. This pose uses gravity and stretches the thigh muscles, facilitating circulation to push impure blood from the legs and pelvis towards heart.
 
Downward Facing Dog: This pose is great for circulation because your hips are higher than your heart, which facilitates blood flow toward the upper body and brain.
 
Camel Pose:  This pose increases circulation to the heart and lungs by expanding the chest. (Modification: If this pose bothers your knees, double your mat or place a blanket under your knees. If you have any neck issues keep your chin tucked into your chest).
 
Triangle Pose:  This pose increases blood flow to the torso by opening the chest and expanding the lungs. (Modifications: Use a block under your bottom hand if it’s too much of a stretch to bring it down further. Keep your chin in line with the sternum if you have any neck issues).
 
Seated Forward Fold: This seated forward bend, also called Head-to-Knee Pose, improves circulation to the legs, and by extension, the feet, as well as the core of the body.
 
Warrior I pose: stretches the muscles of arms, shoulders, neck, legs, and groin favoring muscle contraction and relaxation. Such tone up muscles encourages circulation. Furthermore, the joints of the legs, the waist and those of spinal cord and neck get curved exactly in opposite direction, regulating the blood circulation in those joints.


*Prior to beginning any yoga regimen, always consult with your physician first. Remember to practice within your means and modify poses when needed.