What are the Benefits of Eye Yoga Exercises?
Eye yoga is a series of simple yet effective exercises designed to relax and strengthen the muscles around your eyes. Here are some of its benefits for your overall eye health:
- Strengthens the muscles around your eye
- Reduces eye strain
- Relaxes eyes and helps regain flexibility
- Improves circulation to your eyes
- Helps manage dry eye symptoms
- Helps reduce eye pressure for people with glaucoma (primarily with yoga breathing exercises)
The best part of these exercises is that there’s no risk to it. These simple exercises can be done at home and don’t require equipment. It’s a great way to give your eyes a break during a busy day.
How To Do Eye Yoga Exercises
Eye yoga exercises can help strengthen and relax the muscles around your eyes. Try not to apply pressure to your eyeballs when doing these exercises.
Here are some eye yoga exercises you can do:
- Palming. Rub your palms together to create warmth, cup them over your eyes without applying pressure, relax, and hold this position for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Blinking. Blink your eyes quickly 10 to 20 times, close your eyes, and relax for a few seconds. Repeat this for a few times.
- Eye rolls. Sit comfortably, look straight ahead, and keep your head still. Slowly roll your eyes clockwise, repeat 3 to 5 times, and then do the same counterclockwise.
- Shift focus. Hold your thumb at arm’s length in front of you and focus on it. Switch your focus from your thumb to another object at least 20 feet away for a few minutes.
- Eye massage. Using your fingertips, gently massage your temples in a circular motion for a few seconds, then lightly massage the area around your eyes.
Tips for Eye Yoga Exercises
It is important to rest your eyes while doing these exercises, so close your eyes from time to time. It’s okay if your eyes feel tired initially; these muscles usually don’t get much attention.
Remember to take 20-second breaks every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away. You should also try to add these exercises to your daily routine for at least 5 minutes.
With regular practice, you may notice less eye strain and improved focus. Lastly, breathe slowly and deeply during these exercises for added relaxation.
What Causes Eye Strain?
Eye strain is a blurry, tired feeling in your eyes. It’s your body’s way of telling you that you need a visual break.
Here are a few things that can cause eye strain:
- Staring at screens all day
- Focussing on small text or object
- Reduced blinking when using devices
- Working or reading in dim or very bright conditions
- Uncorrected vision issues
- Outdated prescription glasses
How to Prevent and Manage Eye Strain?
Aside from taking breaks and doing eye yoga, there are many ways to prevent or manage eye strain. These include:
- Blinking regularly to prevent fatigue
- Using soft or even lighting
- Avoiding harsh glare on your screen
- Updating your prescription
- Regular eye exams
- Take long breaks from devices
- Going outdoors
You can also ask your eye doctor about artificial tears or eye drops, especially if you have dry eyes. Lastly, contact an eye doctor if you’re experiencing frequent eye strain, headaches, or severe discomfort.
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