Blood Circulation and Your Health

"No society can surely be flourishing and happy, of which the far greater part of the members are poor and miserable." (Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nations)

Why Is Blood Circulation Important? 

The circulation of money among all sections of society is good for a nation's economy; monopoly and excessive concentration make it sick. 

The free circulation of ideas is vital for the health of a society; suppressing or curbing thought weakens it.

Likewise, efficient blood circulation keeps the human body healthy, while poor circulation gradually makes it ill.

Think About This 

Why do you feel sluggish after sitting for long periods, yet feel refreshed after a short, brisk walk?

Why did Nietzsche claim that "all truly great thoughts are conceived while walking"?

In the world of sports, there is a term called "runner's high". Runners often report feelings of calm, happiness and mental clarity while running. 

What gives your face that healthy glow after a good exercise session?

All of this is closely linked to improved blood circulation. 

What's the Circulatory System?

The circulatory system consists of the heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins and capillaries) and blood. Its function is to ensure the continuous supply of oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to every part of our body, while carrying away carbon dioxide and metabolic waste products.

Symptoms of Poor Blood Circulation 

The following symptoms may occur due to various factors, including poor circulation  - 

1. Cold hands and feet

2. Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet 

3. Poor digestion 

4. Fatigue or low energy

5. Joint pain or muscle cramps 

6. Skin color changes (pale or bluish)

7. Slow healing of wounds 

8. Swelling in the ankles and feet, especially after prolonged sitting or standing 

9. Difficulty concentrating or mental sluggishness 

10. Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Erectile Dysfunction (ED): More Than It Seems 

Medical research estimates that more than 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 experience some degree of ED. The actual number may be even higher due to under-reporting. 

ED can occur for various reasons, including anxiety, stress, hormonal imbalances, certain medications, substance use (alcohol, tobacco, drugs), and neurological conditions. 

In some young men unexplained ED could be an early sign that their body's involved blood vessels are not as healthy as they should be. Changes in  smaller vessels often appear earlier. Recognising these signs in time can help reduce the risk of more serious heart-related problems a few years later. 

(For more details regarding its connection with heart disease, see the article "Erectile Dysfunction" by the Cleveland Clinic.)

Check Your Blood Circulation 

Capillary refill time (CRT) is a simple, quick method to get a rough idea of peripheral blood circulation. 

Press your fingernail firmly for 5-6 seconds until it turns white, then release. If your blood circulation is normal, your nail should regain its original color within 3 seconds. 

However, CRT is only a basic screening tool. If you notice a delay in CRT or experience other symptoms of poor circulation, consult your doctor. 

Ways to Improve Blood Circulation 

1. Do regular aerobic exercises, such as brisk walking, jogging, running, cycling, swimming, dancing -  at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.  

 2. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing. Take a short walking break every 30-40 minutes. (See my blog " Your Chair Is Killing You".) 

3. When sitting is unavoidable, perform calf-raise exercise for activating the leg muscles. Calves are sometimes called the 'second heart'.

4. Certain Yogasanas may help improve blood circulation, e.g., Viparita Karani (legs-up-the-wall pose), Setubandha (bridge pose), Halasana (plough pose), Sarvangasana (shoulder stand). Surya namaskar is excellent way to improve blood circulation. 

However, these asanas should be done under professional guidance and after medical consultation.

5. Breathing practices like Anulom-vilom, Bhramari, Kapalbhati promote good blood circulation. ( Again, to be done under professional guidance. )

6. Strength training improves blood- vessel health.

7. Stay well hydrated. ( See my blog "Hydration for Health".)

8. Interestingly, the measures that improve blood circulation are the same 'boring basics' recommended for  good heart health: regular movement, maintaining ideal body weight (read body fat), avoiding/minimising use of nicotine and alcohol, healthy eating, adequate quality sleep, stress management. 

Finally, cultivate the habit of paying slightly more to poor vendors and labourers than they ask. It is a small but meaningful way to support the healthy circulation of money within society. 

Remember:

Economic edema - the unhealthy accumulation of wealth in the hands of a privileged few -  eventually paralyses the entire nation. 

Shyam Chaturvedi 

Medical disclaimer - The blog content is provided for general educational purposes only. It does not substitute professional medical advice. Reader is advised to consult his doctor before starting any fitness and dietary program to avoid any health risks.

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