1-Minute Eye Care Routine to Improve Dry Eye and Cataracts

Try these quick and easy exercises to relieve symptoms of dry eye and cataracts and improve blood circulation in the eyes.
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These days, spending long hours on screens for work and entertainment has become common, which often leads to eye strain. Massaging the eye sockets can promote blood circulation around the eyes, helping relieve symptoms of dry eye and cataracts. However, using the correct technique is essential to achieve the best results.

Previously, we introduced an eye care routine that significantly improved vision for some cataract patients who practiced it. In this article, we present a one-minute version of the routine and address some frequently asked questions from patients.

Eye Socket Massage

Steps:
  1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
  2. Use your index finger to gently press along the eye socket, moving from the inner corner to the outer corner. Allow your finger to lightly press into the gap between the eye socket and the eyeball.
  3. Press gently along the lower eye socket 3 to 5 times, following the same inner-to-outer motion.
  4. Repeat the process on the upper eye socket.
Studies have shown that cataract patients often experience higher intraocular pressure, which hinders blood flow to the eyes. Clinically, it has been observed that many people with eye problems tend to have stiff, less elastic eyeballs. Massaging the eye sockets helps stimulate energy flow and improve blood circulation around the eyes, providing noticeable relief and comfort.

Blinking Exercise

Steps:
  1. Close your eyes for 3 to 5 seconds.
  2. Open your eyes quickly.
  3. Repeat this process 3 to 5 times.
This exercise can help relax the eyes and effectively alleviate dry-eye symptoms.

Will Rolling My Eyes Hurt My Retina?

Moderate eye movement can safely improve blood circulation and energy flow around the eyes. However, avoid rolling your eyes excessively.
As part of an eye exercise routine, you can keep your eyes closed and roll them clockwise 14 times, followed by 14 times counterclockwise. If rolling your eyes feels uncomfortable, you can skip this exercise and focus instead on blinking and massaging the area around your eyes.

Can I Perform Eye Exercises After Cataract Surgery?

Yes, eye exercises can be performed after cataract surgery. After cataract surgery, although the natural lens is replaced with an artificial one, some people may still experience vision problems, such as posterior capsular opacification—a clouding of the membrane that holds the artificial lens in place. Regardless of whether you have had surgery, performing eye exercises can help protect and maintain your vision.

How Can Glaucoma Patients Improve Eye Health?

Clinically, I have observed that glaucoma patients—whether they have high or low intraocular pressure—often experience misalignment or discomfort in the first, second, and third cervical vertebrae. Misalignment in this area can disrupt blood circulation and nerve transmission to the head and eyes. Over time, insufficient blood supply to the eyes and impaired nerve conduction may contribute to various eye conditions.

Addressing cervical spine issues can significantly alleviate symptoms such as eye soreness and pain. In some cases, it may also help stabilize intraocular pressure.

Glaucoma patients are advised to check their cervical spine for stiffness or soreness. If discomfort is detected, consider trying the cervical spine self-rehabilitation exercises we previously introduced, as they may help prevent glaucoma from worsening.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
Kuo-Pin Wu
Kuo-Pin Wu is the superintendent of Taiwan XinYiTang TCM Clinic. He began studying traditional Chinese medicine in 2008 and earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from China Medical University in Taiwan.
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