Introduction
It is estimated that over 30% of the world’s population suffers from some sort of eye disorder. Many are advised to wear corrective glasses or undergo surgery. However, if you want to prevent such disorders, yoga is a wonderful solution to improve your eyesight naturally. Do you want to know how? Let us see some simple eye exercises first, and then I’ll tell you some more holistic techniques. If you are ready to try, follow these exercises.
Simple Eye Exercises
Blinking Exercise: Take a handful of clean water in your hand, dip your eyes in it, and blink a few times in the water to freshen up your eye muscles. Wipe your face and sit down with your back straight. Now begin this exercise by blinking your eyes 10 to 15 times. This will moisten your eyes and reduce any dryness. Make a conscious effort to blink regularly, especially during long periods of screen use or reading.
Squeezing Exercise: Gently squeeze your eyes shut, hold for a few seconds, release, and repeat this two to three times. This exercise will increase blood circulation and reduce any fatigue.
Side-to-Side Gaze: Shift your gaze from side to side without moving your head. This will improve the flexibility of your eye muscles and enhance your peripheral vision.
Up and Down Movements: Just like the side movements, move your eyes up and down without moving your head. This helps to strengthen the muscles responsible for vertical eye movement.
Near and Far Focus: Look at the tip of your nose for some time and then gaze at an object in the distance. This improves near and far vision.
Diagonal Movements: Move your eyes diagonally, both upward and downward. This will improve the flexibility of your eye muscles.
Figure 8 Exercise: Visualize the figure 8 or the infinity symbol and trace it with your eyes. This exercise enhances your eye coordination, especially if you have difficulties in your eye movements.
Circular Movements: Rotate your eyes in a circular motion, first clockwise and then anticlockwise. This exercise not only improves flexibility but also stimulates blood flow.
After doing all these exercises, it’s time to relax your eyes deeply by doing palming. Rub your palms together to generate warmth and cup them over your closed eyes without applying pressure. Repeat this one more time.
More Holistic Techniques
So, this was all about simple exercises for your eyes. Now, let’s look at some more methods.
Tratak
The first thing that comes to mind is a yogic technique called Tratak. To do this, you have to gaze at a single point: it could be a flame, the tender sun or moon, or any object. This improves your concentration and helps your eyes.
20-20-20 Rule
Another method is to follow the 20-20-20 rule when you use digital devices. For every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce the strain on your eyes. Try to avoid long periods of screen time, take breaks, and ensure that you have proper lighting to reduce strain.
Eye Massage
From time to time, relax your eyes by gently massaging around your closed eyes with circular motions using your fingertips.
Nutrition for Eye Health
Include foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. These nutrients are found in carrots, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and chia seeds.
By being mindful of eye exercises like these, you can take proactive steps to preserve your eyesight, and it will definitely bring a twinkle to your eyes.
Also read:Exercise, Immunity, and Your Health
Conclusion
Incorporating these yoga-based eye exercises and holistic techniques into your daily routine can be a powerful way to care for your vision without the need for invasive measures. From simple blinking exercises to the more focused practice of Tratak, these methods can reduce eye strain, improve muscle flexibility, and support overall eye health. Coupled with good nutrition and mindful screen use, these techniques can help you preserve your eyesight and keep your eyes healthy for years to come. By making these practices a habit, you’re taking a proactive approach to maintaining your vision naturally