With each word that we type on our computers, each group message that we read on our mobile phones, and each movie that we watch on our televisions – we rely on our eyes more than ever.
The continuous strain we put on our eyes can cause fatigue and other eye problems. Not to mention, Myopia or short-sightedness has been one of the public’s health concerns. The prevalence of Myopia in Singapore among all ages, was considered as one of the highest in the world.
That said, here are five ways to sharpen your vision and to see a “brighter” future ahead…
1. SEEK THE OUTDOORS
Scientists believe that high levels of light triggers the retina to release a chemical called “Dopamine” that stops the eyeball from lengthening. This belief was supported by studies in the United States and Australia, which showed that children who spent at least 21 hours a week outdoors have decreased their risk of suffering from short-sightedness.
So, it is best to encourage your kids to embrace the outdoorsy lifestyle. Make it a fun and rewarding experience by having family outings or playing outdoor sports.
2. EAT HEALTHY FOOD
Healthy food that are rich in zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and vitamin E can help protect your eyes from age-related vision problems.
Eat your way to a better vision by indulging on leafy green vegetables (e.g., spinach or kale), fishes (e.g., salmon or tuna), non-meat protein sources (e.g., nuts or beans), and citrus fruits (e.g., orange or pomelo) regularly.
Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)
3. QUIT CIGARETTE SMOKING
Smoking affects your health in more ways than one. Aside from increasing our risk of developing heart disease and lung cancer, smoking can lead to vision loss. Smoking increases the risk of Dry Eye Syndrome, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts.
If you want to keep your vision in tact, quit smoking cigarettes as early as you can. Do not lose hope if you have tried and failed in the past because more you try, the more likely you are going to succeed. Determination and perseverance are everything!
4. GIVE YOUR EYES A BREAK
Give your eyes the break it clearly deserves by looking away from the computer every once in a while. Rest your eyes about 10 minutes for every 50 minutes you spent in front of the computer screen.
If your eyes feel really tired after work, Dr. Mao Shing Ni (the bestselling author of Secrets of Longevity) suggests putting cooled cucumber slices over your eyelids while lying down.
5. EXERCISE YOUR EYES
Aside from giving your eyes a break, you must exercise it to remove the tension and to improve your vision naturally.
Simply follow these steps…
a. Rub your palms together to create heat then, place it against your eyes for 5 seconds to warm it up.
b. Roll your eyes in different directions by slowly circling them 10 times clockwise and 10 times counterclockwise.
c. Use your thumb knuckles to massage your temples in small circles 20 times in one direction and another 20 times in the opposite direction. Repeat the same motion above the midpoint of the eyebrows and at the forehead.
Or, move along with this “Animated Eye Exercises” video:
