We regularly hear reminders to exercise our bodies and even our minds, but what about our eyes? Did you know exercising your eyes can help with several things including dry eyes and headaches? Read on to find out what eye exercises might help you and how to do them.
Roll Your Eyes
We are going to tell you how to roll your eyes in a way that helps relieve eye strain! First, only move your eyes to the right. Then slowly roll them up to the ceiling and down to your left.
Finally, finish by rolling your eyes toward the floor. Do this in a clockwise motion several times, and then do it anti-clockwise several times.
Blink Break
Again, exercising your eyes is key to relieving eye strain. Most of us spend a lot of time in front of screens. For example, the majority of us use computers, tablets, phones and TVs throughout the day. All this screen time can lead to dry eyes.
The good news is we just need to blink. Start with normal blinking. Then consider pausing with your eyes closed for about two seconds.
Focus Change
This eye exercise is done from a seated position. As the name suggestions, it helps improve your ability to focus. Start by taking your pointer finger and putting it a few inches from your face.
Slowly move your finger away from your face while staying focused on your finger. Next, look into the distance for a moment. Then focus on your finger once again and slowly bring it back toward your face. Look away and repeat a few more times.
Figure 8
For this eye exercise, pick a point on the floor about 10 feet in front of you. Trace an imaginary figure 8 with your eyes. Keep tracing it for about 30 seconds. Then switch directions.
Near and Far Focus
Hold your thumb about 10 inches from your face and focus on it for 15 seconds. After that, find an object roughly 10 to 20 feet away and focus on it for about 15 seconds.
Bring your focus back to your thumb. Repeat about five times. This exercise is good for people who wear glasses!
20-20-20 Rule
Have you heard of the 20-20-20 rule? Basically, it’s a good eye exercise for everyone. Every 20 minutes look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Palms for Relaxation
Gently cup your palms over your closed eyes without applying any pressure. Keep them there until the afterimages fade to black. Typically, this takes about 30 seconds.
Summary
In summary, exercising your eyes may be something you and your eye doctor work on together. By talking to your doctor about your concerns or eye conditions, you can work on a safe plan that is best for you.
For more on vision health, eye care and ways to stay focused on healthy eyes, keep reading through our blogs!
