Eyestrain is the result of spending too much time driving, working at your computer or reading, according to MayoClinic.com. In a world where people increasingly must sit at computers all day as part of their job, eyestrain is a major health concern. Fortunately, MayoClinic.com identifies eye-strengthening exercises as one of the ways you can combat the problem.
Yogic Focus
Focus on one object to increase the strength of your eyes. Ayushveda.com describes this exercise as a "form of yoga for one's eyes." Center on a single object such as a coffee cup or a pencil. You don't even need an object; you can choose the tip of your nose as your focal point. Do this for a few minutes, then focus on what yoga practitioners call the "third eye" without blinking. The third eye is right between your eyebrows and above the nose.
Eye Palming
You can perform eye palming at your desk at work. Put your elbows on top of anything comfortable that raises your palms high enough that you can place them against your eyes straight on, without leaning down or straining up. Cup your hands, then cover your eyes to block out light, but do not press down on your eyes. Take slow, even, deep breaths while concentrating on the darkness. Do this two or three times a day for 10 minutes at a time.
Distance Training
Select an object 3 feet away from you. Focus on the object for a few minutes, trying to see it as clearly as you can. Repeat this with objects 30 feet, or two car lengths, and 500 feet, or a city block, away. Finally, focus on an object as far away as you can see. After you have focused on the farthest object, return to the first object. Cycle through all four objects 10 times. Do this exercise twice each day.
Alternating Sides
Sit or stand with your head straight. Alternate between focusing on something on your right side and something on your left side. Do this for 10 to 15 minutes. When you are done, repeat the exercise, focusing instead on things that are above your line of vision and below it.
Swaying
Select a distant point to focus on. Sway slightly from side to side, maintaining focus on this object. Do 100 repetitions of your swaying, blinking while you maintain focus. This keeps your eyes properly lubricated, essentially important for those who work in front of computers all day.
