In a world where electronic screens and eye-straining blue light abound, good vision habits take discipline. We all know the importance of taking regular vision breaks, but what about eye exercises? It might sound odd at first, but eye exercises are actually simple and quick to perform, and will lead to benefits such as improved eyesight and reduced stress.
Eye exercises for beginners
Here are two easy eye exercises you can do anytime, anywhere.1
1. Focus change
- Hold your thumb or index finger approximately 10 to 15 cm away from your eyes and focus intently on it.
- Slowly move your finger away from your eyes, maintaining your focus, and then look as far into the distance as you can for two seconds.
- Return your focus to your finger and hold that focus as you move your finger back towards your eyes.
2. Figure 8
- Look at a point on the floor or ceiling about 3 to 4 meters away from your eyes.
- Rotate your eyeballs so as to trace an imaginary figure 8. Do this for 30 seconds, then rotate your eyes in the other direction.
Why exercise your eyes?
The primary goal of eye exercises is to strengthen your eye muscles as well as to train your eyes to focus clearly and quickly. They are a great way to correct eye tracking issues and do away with poor visual habits.1
Certain studies have also found that the exercises can improve dynamic balance (i.e. your ability to stay balanced when walking or running), which is very beneficial for elderly people looking to reduce their slip and fall risk.2
While scientific research into the benefits of eye exercises is still ongoing, one thing’s for sure — you’ve nothing to lose and plenty to gain, so give these exercises a shot today.
Sources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/eye-exercises#vision-therapy. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167494316301868. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
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