Most people do not think about exercising their eyes. However, this activity has great benefits. Some of the benefits include, strengthening eye movements and muscles, clearer focusing and invigorating the brain’s vision center. According to Dr. Mutchler of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, “Exercising your eyes keeps them healthier longer.” Eye exercising is a habit that can start at any age. There are several reasons to consider exercising your eyes, such as to alleviate headaches, tired eyes and more. Doctors recommend certain natural eye exercises based on a patient’s condition and age.
Benefits of Eye Exercises
Presbyopia, generally strikes people over the age of 40. This is thought to be caused by the weakening fibrous muscles surrounding the eyes. There is also a loss of elasticity for the lens, which has become harder. Eye exercises combat this age-related occurrence by stimulating muscles and improving vision. Individuals can use their eyes more efficiently and gain some relief from a variety of diseases. Other conditions that can affect eye health include amblyopia or lazy eye, strabismus or crossed eyes and eyes that move inward or outward. A regular eye exercise routine can mitigate these issues. Here is a list of some simple exercises anyone can engage in at any time.
Recommended Natural Eye Exercises
- The clock exercise. Pretend to be staring at a clock. Look at the 12 and now the six. Repeat this for 10 to 20 times. Next, look at the three and the nine for 10 to 20 times. After you complete this routine, close your eyes and let them rest.
- The in and out exercise uses objects that are near and far away from you. Start by holding a finger at arm’s length from your face. Stare at the finger for a couple of minutes. Next, stare at an object that is several feet away. Now move back to your finger. Try to focus with each object.
- The hitchhiker thumb exercise. Hold your thumb in the air in front of your face as if you are hitchhiking. Now stare at it for one minute. Next, move it towards your face as you maintain focus. Now move it away again. Repeat this process for at least five minutes.
- Palming is an exercise that has a soothing effect on tired eyes, or when vision is blurred. Start by rubbing your palms for approximately four minutes, or until there is warmth. Next, cup your palms over the eyes. Ensure there is no outside light streaming through your fingers. Repeat these steps a few times.
If you are interested in learning more about natural eye treatments read about the Quantum Vision System which combines exercise, eye care, and nutrition to treat many common eye issues.
