You may notice your vision gets a bit hazy from time to time, especially after looking at a screen for a while. This can be a sign of eye strain or an underlying condition that affects one or both of your eyes. It’s a common feeling in a world full of digital displays, often leading to what is known as digital eye strain.
While persistent blurriness should be discussed with a professional, you can still try some simple exercises to help relieve tired eyes. These gentle movements can help your eye muscles and may improve your comfort throughout the day. They serve as a helpful break for your hard-working eyes.
Why Your Eyes May Feel Tired & Blurry
Digital Screens & Your Eyes
When you focus on digital devices, you tend to blink less often than you normally would. Blinking is your eye’s natural way of cleaning and moisturizing itself. A decrease in blink rate can cause your eyes to feel dry, gritty, or worn out.
The Importance of Preventative Care
These exercises can help with temporary eye strain, but ongoing blurry vision is a sign to seek professional advice. A comprehensive eye exam can help find the cause of any changes in your sight. As your eye doctor in South Edmonton, we can check your overall eye health and offer guidance.
Simple Exercises to Relax Your Eyes
Try Palming for a Calm Break
Palming is a technique that can help relax the muscles around your eyes to reduce tiredness. First, rub your hands together to warm them up. Then, close your eyes and gently place the palm of each hand over your cheekbones, covering your eyes completely.
Your fingers should rest on your forehead, creating a dark space for your eyes. Breathe deeply for about five minutes and enjoy the comforting warmth and darkness. This simple act can feel like a mini-meditation for your eyes.
Use the 20-20-20 Rule
Focusing on close work for a long time can tire out your eyes. Give them a break by following the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for a full 20 seconds. This could be a tree outside your window or a picture on the far wall.
Short breaks allow your eye muscles to relax before you return to your task.
Exercises for Eye Movement & Focus
Practice the Figure Eight
This exercise can help with your ability to track objects smoothly and improve the flexibility of your eye muscles. Imagine a large figure eight on its side about 10 feet in front of you. Without moving your head, slowly trace the shape with your eyes.
Continue this motion for about 30 seconds, then switch directions and trace it the other way. This movement encourages your eyes to move in ways they might not during a typical day. It’s a great stretch for the muscles that control eye movement.
Roll Your Eyes for Relief
Rolling your eyes is a simple way to exercise the muscles that move them. You can start by slowly looking up toward the ceiling, then rolling your eyes clockwise to the right, down, and to the left. Try to make the circle as large as you can without straining.
Repeat this motion a few times, then switch to a counter-clockwise direction. This gentle stretch can help reduce feelings of stiffness or fatigue. Aim for about 10-15 repetitions to help your eyes feel refreshed.
Ways to Keep Your Eyes Lubricated
Remember to Blink
Blinking is an automatic function, but we tend to blink less while our eyes are focused. Conscious blinking helps refresh the tear film that keeps your eyes moist and comfortable. A full blink also stimulates the oil glands in your eyelids, which helps with lubrication.
You can practice blinking by closing your eyes, pausing for two seconds, and then opening them again. Try to do this several times throughout the day, especially when using a computer or phone. You can even place a note on your screen as a helpful reminder.
Use a Gentle Swing Motion
Swinging in place is another way to help relax and lubricate your eyes. To do this, stand up and focus on a distant object. Gently rock back and forth while you keep your eyes on the target.
This subtle motion can encourage you to blink more naturally. It also helps your eyes relax by shifting their focus in a soft, rhythmic way.
How an Eye Doctor in South Edmonton Can Help
A Partner in Your Family’s Eye Health
These exercises are great for day-to-day eye comfort, but they don’t replace professional care. Regular eye exams are important for every member of your family, from children to seniors. They provide a clear picture of your current eye health and vision needs.
Building a relationship with your eye doctor means you have a trusted source for eye care. We get to know you and your family’s history, which helps us provide personalized attention. Your vision and health are our top priority.
Get Clear Advice for Your Vision
If you experience blurry vision that doesn’t go away, an eye exam can help identify the reason. A local eye doctor can look at your unique situation and health background. We can see the complete picture of your eye health.
From there, we can provide personalized advice to support your vision and long-term eye health. It’s about more than just checking your sight—it’s about caring for the health of your eyes for years to come. We are here to meet all of your eye care needs.
While all of these exercises can offer daily comfort, they’re ultimately only part of a larger approach to eye wellness. For a complete look at your vision and health, personalized attention makes a difference. At Total Focus Optometry, we ‘re here to provide that care for you and your family, so feel free to connect with us to book your next appointment.
