Does Hot Yoga Help Poor Circulation?

Yes, hot yoga can be an excellent practice for helping to improve poor circulation. The benefits are a direct result of the practice's powerful effect on the cardiovascular and circulatory systems. The primary mechanism is vasodilation, the widening of your blood vessels, which is the body's natural response to a heated environment. As your blood vessels expand, blood is able to flow more freely and with less resistance throughout your body. This process is further enhanced by the physical postures, which increase the heart rate and systematically compress and release different parts of the body, helping to 'push' blood into areas that might not receive as much flow otherwise. This improved circulation means that more oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood is delivered to all of your tissues, from your major organs to the capillaries in your fingers and toes. Many people who suffer from chronically cold hands and feet report a significant improvement in their symptoms with a regular hot yoga practice. Over time, this can lead to better overall cardiovascular health and a greater sense of vitality.