If you stare at a computer all day, have sore eye sockets, watch a lot of tv/movies or your eyes just feel strained—this is for you!
According to Ayurveda, eyes are associated with Pitta Dosha (fire + water) and around the age of 40, alochaka pitta (a sub-dosha of pitta) starts becoming weaker. Leading to irritated or strained eyes. If you work in front of a big screen, do a lot of intricate work, driving, or live in a city where pollution is high—the eyes can become irritated and build-up a lot of strain no matter your age.
Here’s 6 tips that can help ease or prevent eyestrain.
#1. Take a eye-break. Every hour or so, give your eyes a break. Close them or have them look at a distant object or out the window. Having the eyes focus on something different can help rest the eyes.
#2. Enjoy tea time! A warm cup of chamomile or mint can help relax your body and the mind. In-turn help relax the eyes. Don’t do what you were doing prior to having tea—this is the time, to smell the roses aka your tea.
#3. Splash your eyes with cool water. Since eyes hold the heating energy of pitta, the cooling energy of water will help to counter the heat and help bring balance. Plus, it just feel good!
#4. Apply soothing milk pads. Dip sterilized cotton or gauze, into cool goat’s milk or cow’s milk and place on closed lids. Then relax for 5-10 minutes. Cucumbers are another great option. Go crazy–listen to some music too.
#5. Exercise the eyes. Blink the eyes rapidly several times. Then move eyes up and down. Then side to side. Then clockwise and counter-clockwise. Finally close your eyes and then tightly release them— do this a few times. End by rubbing your palms together to generate warmth and then place your hands gently over your eyes for 1-2 minutes.
#6. Moisturize the eyelids before going to bed. Use your favorite eye cream. I like to gently massage and moisturize with pure organic ghee and a spritz or two of rosewater before I turn the lights off.
