Yoga can be beneficial for eye care as it helps improve blood circulation, relaxes the eye muscles, and reduces eye strain caused by prolonged screen time and other daily activities. Here are some yoga exercises that can promote eye health.
Palming.
Sit comfortably and rub your palms together vigorously until they become warm. Close your eyes and place your warm palms over your eyes, without applying pressure. Relax and enjoy the darkness for a few minutes, allowing your eyes to rest.
Eye rotations.
Sit with your spine straight and relax your shoulders. Focus your gaze straight ahead. Slowly rotate your eyes in a clockwise direction, and then reverse the movement in a counterclockwise direction. Do this for a few rounds, ensuring smooth and gentle movements.
Near and far focusing.
Sit comfortably and extend your arm in front of you, with your thumb pointing up. Focus your gaze on your thumb for a few seconds, and then shift your focus to an object in the distance. Alternate between focusing on your thumb and the distant object, allowing your eyes to adjust and adapt.
Blinking.
Sit comfortably and relax your facial muscles. Blink your eyes rapidly for 20-30 seconds. Then, close your eyes and keep them closed for a few seconds. Repeat this process several times. Blinking helps to lubricate the eyes and prevent dryness.
Eye palming with visualization:
Sit comfortably and perform palming as described in the first exercise. While palming, visualize a soothing image or color that brings you a sense of relaxation and calmness. This can further help in reducing eye strain and promoting relaxation.
Remember to practice these exercises in a well-lit room and avoid straining your eyes during the process. It’s also essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular eye breaks from screen usage, to support your overall eye health. If you have any specific concerns or persistent eye issues, it’s always recommended to consult an eye care professional.