Modern technology is fascinating. With all the gadgets and devices readily available to us, we have become a population preoccupied and obsessed with big screen televisions, computers, laptops and mobile phones, just to name a few of the contraptions that are now part of our daily lives. Technology has introduced us to so many wonderful devices, but it has also seen a dramatic rise in eye problems over the last 15 years. This can be put down to the increased usage of all these great gadgets that are available to us. Whilst embracing technology, it is important to pay particular attention to eye care with some simple eye exercises.

Figure of Eight

To exercise your eye muscles, imagine a giant figure 8 on its side about 3 metres in front of you. Trace the 8 slowly with your eyes first one way and then the other. Make sure to do this one, as it is really great for eye flexibility and eye muscles.

Blinking

Blinking will help prevent dry eyes and keep your eyes fresh. People who look at screens for long periods of time will blink less. Blinking will also help your ability to focus. If you are feeling eye strain, blink every 4 seconds for two minutes. Then try not to blink for 30 seconds over a period of two minutes.

Focusing

Place your thumb 25cms in front of you and focus on it. While still holding your thumb up, focus on something 3 metres away. Switch your focus between both objects for about 2 minutes. This exercise will help to strengthen eye muscles.

Palming

Do some deep breathing and close your eyes. Place your cupped palms over your eyes, the heel of your hand on your cheekbones and your fingers resting against your forehead. Do not use too much pressure and make sure you can blink freely. This simple exercise only takes a few minutes and will relieve stress around the eyes and will ensure your eyes get some rest.

Zooming

Stretch out your thumb and arm as if you were hitching a ride. Focus on your thumb and gradually bring your thumb closer until it is only about 8cms from your face. Make sure to hitchhike with both arms! Doing this for a few minutes throughout the day will increase your focusing ability.

Doing eye exercises will not only keep your eyes healthy, but will also help prevent eye fatigue. Take a browse through the Dryeye.com.au site for tips on eye health. It is important to persevere with these eye exercises, as improvements will not happen overnight. It may take a few weeks but you will then notice now beneficial doing these simple exercises has been. You will find your eyes will be less stressed and fatigued. After reading this article, I am sure you will have good intentions of following through with these exercises, but it is so easy to forget to do them! Why not print out the eye exercises and attach them to a prominent position to give you a reminder to do them? Eye exercises are important to strengthen eye muscles and will also increase eye hygiene.

Emma Jane worked as a nutritionist for 5 years before she quit her job to be a stay-home mom of two boys.