In our screen-saturated lives, eye strain has become an everyday woe. Yoga expert suggests eye yoga as a natural, simple solution. Here’s how regular practice restores energy, improves circulation, and relieves headaches while boosting focus and eye comfort.
Staring at screens for hours has become the norm, but the consequences are all too familiar: dry, irritated eyes, blurred vision, and persistent headaches. Including simple yogic exercises in your daily routine can rejuvenate tired eyes, reduce strain, and even sharpen focus, making it a lifesaver for the modern digital generation.
Digital devices are indispensable today, but our eyes often pay the price, says Dr Narendra K Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer at Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Centre.
Dr Shetty adds, “Eye yoga, a series of gentle exercises, restores vitality to the eyes by improving blood flow and reducing muscular tension.” He adds that the practices combine mindful blinking, focused breathing, and deliberate eye movements in all directions. “Even a few minutes daily can make a noticeable difference. It’s about retraining your eyes to relax and recharge,” he adds. For anyone struggling with headaches, dryness, or blurred vision from long screen hours, eye yoga offers a practical, non-invasive solution rooted in ancient wisdom.
Unlike complicated fitness routines, it requires no equipment and can be done at your desk or living room. Regular practice enhances tear production, alleviates tension-related headaches, improves concentration, and even reduces the stress associated with constant screen exposure. Dr Shetty stresses, however, that those recovering from eye surgery or battling severe eye infections should consult a specialist before starting these exercises.
Dr Shetty shares simple steps for eye yoga:
Blinking: Rapidly blink for a few seconds to refresh and lubricate your eyes.
Palming: Rub your hands to warm them, then cup them over closed eyes for 30 seconds. Absorb the warmth to soothe eye muscles.
Eye movement: Move your eyes up and down, side to side, and rotate them in circles 10 times.
Focus shift: Hold your thumb close, focus, then shift to a distant object 10 times to strengthen flexibility.
Cool down: After each exercise, return to palming to relieve strain and relax the eyes completely.
Foods to avoid
Excessive caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate your eyes. Processed foods, trans fats, and sugars may increase inflammation, affecting eye tissues.
With consistent practice, eye yoga offers a natural shield against the rigours of our screen-heavy lives. “It’s a small daily commitment with huge rewards for your vision and mental clarity,” Dr Shetty tells.
FAQs on eye yoga tips:
1. What is eye yoga?
Eye yoga involves simple eye exercises designed to strengthen eye muscles, improve focus and flexibility, and relieve eye strain caused by prolonged screen use or reading.
2. Can eye yoga improve vision?
Eye yoga may not permanently correct refractive errors like nearsightedness or astigmatism, but it can reduce eye strain, dryness, and fatigue, helping your eyes feel more relaxed and comfortable.
3. What are some effective eye yoga exercises?
Common exercises include:
Palming: Rubbing your palms together and placing them gently over closed eyes.
Eye rotation: Moving your eyes in circular motions.
Focus shifting: Alternating focus between near and far objects.
Blinking exercises: Conscious blinking to refresh and lubricate eyes.
4. How often should I practice eye yoga?
For best results, practice for 5–10 minutes daily, especially if you spend long hours on digital screens. Short breaks every 20–30 minutes can also help.
5. Are there any precautions to keep in mind?
Yes — avoid straining or over-rotating your eyes. If you experience dizziness, pain, or blurred vision, stop and rest. Eye yoga should feel gentle and relaxing, not uncomfortable.
