Just like circulation is important to power your heart and other parts of the body, the brain needs proper blood flow to function optimally.

The brain is a complex organ. There are 400 miles of blood vessels delivering vital oxygen nutrients to the brain. Proper blood flow is needed to keep the brain energized, clear and healthy.

Low levels of blood flow have been linked to strokes and dementia, as well as other mental health issues like depression.

Here are ways you can boost circulation to the brain for a healthy mental state.

  1. Choose brain-healthy foods. Eat antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, spinach, dark leafy greens and dark chocolate. Limit your intake of meat.
  2. Exercise. Movement is one of the best ways to improve cranial blood flow. Brisk walking, running, swimming, ballplaying, weight training and yoga are all excellent exercises to incorporate.
  3. Listen to or play music.
  4. Practice meditation and deep breathing.