Wim Hoff is a man from the Netherlands who has also become known as the “ice man”. He has popularized a breathing technique that originated in Tibet.
It was brought to my attention at a congress that this can also improve microcirculation. Better microcirculation serves
1. a better supply of oxygen-rich blood to the organs
2. lower blood pressure
3. to combat a form of macular degeneration (eye health).
It works like this: by breathing strongly 30-40 times (hyperventilation), more CO2 is excreted. You can then hold your breath for quite a long time - for example 1-2 minutes. During this time, there is a brief lack of oxygen. This in turn is a strong signal for a long-term improvement in blood circulation.
More details on the technique: During the hyperventilation phase, the blood is freed from acid (CO2 is “carbonic acid”). This causes a tingling sensation in the body, e.g. in the hands. This tells you that you are breathing hard enough. You may also feel slightly intoxicated for a short time.
However, the actual effect occurs when you hold your breath. The breathing rate is regulated by the CO2 content, not by the oxygen requirement. This allows you to hold your breath for longer. However, I would not recommend holding your breath for longer than 1-2 minutes. As soon as you feel the need to breathe - breathe again. Some people try to hold their breath for up to 5 minutes, but I would NOT recommend this because of the lack of oxygen. You will find dozens of pages and forums on the Internet describing the Wim Hoff method, including from Mr. Hoff himself.
This is a free and easy to do exercise to improve oxygenation.
There is also a vitamin that improves microcirculation: vitamin K2.