🧠 7 Natural Ways to Increase Blood Flow to the Brain

Ashley Allen
Sep 6
2 min read

Boosting brain blood flow naturally with lifestyle habits

Why Is Blood Flow to the Brain So Important?

Your brain only makes up about 2% of your body weight, but it uses 20% of your oxygen and blood supply. Without steady circulation, your brain can’t function at its best. Poor blood flow has been linked to brain fog, memory problems, fatigue, and even long-term conditions like stroke or dementia.

The good news? There are simple, science-backed ways to improve brain circulation—no fancy supplements needed.

1. Try Inverted Yoga Poses

Gentle inversions like downward dog or legs-up-the-wall help gravity do the work of sending blood toward your brain. These poses are calming and great for mental clarity.

Tip: Even just 3–5 minutes a day can make a difference.

Group of diverse people laughing joyfully against a light yellow background, showcasing vibrant hairstyles and colorful casual clothing.

2. Laugh More Often

Laughter literally boosts blood flow and oxygen to the brain. It also reduces stress, which can restrict circulation.

Try This: Watch a funny video or call a friend who makes you laugh—it’s brain therapy!

3. Get a Scalp Massage

Hands gently massage the scalp of a person with light brown hair, conveying relaxation. Neutral background enhances the soothing mood.

Massaging your scalp stimulates circulation right at the source. It may also promote hair growth and reduce tension headaches.

DIY Tip: Use your fingertips or a silicone scalp brush for 2–3 minutes daily.

4. Add Beets to Your Diet

A jar of vibrant beet smoothie on a wooden board, surrounded by fresh beets and greens, conveying a fresh and healthy mood.

Beets are high in nitrates, which help dilate blood vessels and improve oxygen delivery to the brain.

Easy Recipe: Add raw, shredded beets to a salad or blend them into a smoothie with berries.

5. Practice Cold Showers or Contrast Therapy

Close-up of a person's shoulder and arm with water droplets, suggesting a fresh, invigorating atmosphere. Blurred green background.

Cold exposure can stimulate circulation as your body works to stay warm. Alternating hot and cold in the shower also gets blood moving more efficiently.

Note: Start slow—just 30 seconds of cold water at the end of your shower.

6. Use Essential Oils

A glass bottle with cork filled with olive oil sits on a wooden table, surrounded by fresh rosemary sprigs. Warm, earthy ambiance.

Certain scents like rosemary, peppermint, and eucalyptus have been shown to improve alertness and circulation when inhaled.

How-To: Add a few drops to a diffuser or apply (diluted) to your temples or wrists.

7. Improve Your Posture

Side and front views of a human skeleton on a peach background, with numbered labels on bones. Skeletons appear in black and white.

Slouching can restrict blood flow through the neck and spine to your brain. A tall spine = better circulation.

Quick Fix: Check in with your posture while sitting—stack shoulders over hips and keep your chin level.

Final Thoughts

Glowing 3D brain model with orange and blue hues, set against a soft gradient background, creating an illuminated, futuristic look.

Better brain blood flow isn’t just about long-term health—it impacts how you feel right now. From more energy and better memory to sharper thinking, these natural habits can help you stay focused and vibrant at any age.

Want more brain-healthy tips delivered to your inbox?👉 Follow along on Instagram @sustainabrain.