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Writer's pictureAtsuko

Japanese traditional way to boost blood flow helps us stay healthy

Updated: Aug 1, 2023

The Japanese have practiced various traditional methods to stay healthy for centuries, and one of the most well-known is called "cool head, warm feet" (頭寒足熱 Zukan Sokunetsu). This concept emphasizes the importance of keeping our heads cool and our feet warm.


By ensuring our feet are warm and our heads are cool, blood circulation improves, and nutrients can reach all parts of our body, promoting overall well-being and health.


Warming feet is the Japanese traditional way to stay healthy
Warming feet with Onsen

In simple terms, this means that when our feet are warm and our head is cooler, our blood circulates effectively, preventing potential physical issues.


You might recall from our physics class that cold things, like air and water, tend to stay low, whereas warm things stay high.


Poor Blood Circulation Causes Various Issues

According to Taro Imai, traditional Chinese medicine doctor, problems that may arise from poor blood circulation include:

Hair loss,

Gray hair,

Headaches,

Dizziness,

Ringing in the ears,

Lowered immunity,

Tiredness,

Anxiety,

Skin issues (such as blotch, wrinkles, and dryness),

PMS symptoms,

Numbness in hands and feet,

Swelling,

Shoulder stiffness,

Joint pain,

and dry eyes.


In modern society, where people often engage in intensive mental work and constant thinking, there is a tendency for more blood to flow to the head, resulting in even warmer heads and colder feet, which worsens blood circulation.


How To Keep Your Feet Warm Based On Japanese Traditional Way to Stay Healthy


Here are some actions you can take to boost your blood circulation.


1. Wear silk five-toe socks or natural material socks:

Silk socks are considered the best option as silk is believed to absorb toxins. However, any socks made from natural materials, including cotton, can work well. It's best to avoid socks with synthetic fibers. Feel free to wear multiple pairs of socks if needed.


The Japanese traditional way to stay healthy is to warm feet
Five-toe socks keep your feet warm

2. Foot bath with salt and aroma oil:

Prepare a bucket of hot water, which can be from a shower or heated on the stove. Add salt and your favorite aroma oil to the water and soak your feet in the mixture for about 15 minutes. You would like hot water at 40-42 degrees Celsius.


The Japanese traditional way to stay healthy is to warm feet.
Soak your feet for about 15 minutes

Feel how comfortable you are when your feet are warm.


Remember that maintaining warm feet is essential throughout the year, as our feet can be colder than our heads regardless of the season. By doing so, we ensure smooth blood flow and promote overall health and well-being.



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