Our eyes take us outward: they help us connect with and experience the world. We think about what we see, and then make our decisions based on this. There are many asanas which help strengthen our eyes, needed all the more today, because of all the gadgets we are constantly looking at. Here are a few which are beneficial and can be done any time and anywhere.
Netra Lola (eye roll)
Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position or on a chair. Keep the spine in its neutral position -- maintain the natural curvature. Relax the facial muscles and soften the eyes. Stay in this position breathing deeply and relaxing the entire body.
Inhale; without moving the head and the body, shift the gaze up towards the ceiling. Exhale; shift the eyes towards the right, then look down, left and back up. Go clockwise.
Repeat this 10 times around, then change to move the eye anticlockwise for 10 rounds.
Close the eyes and rest, focusing on the breath.
Benefits: This exercise strengthens the eye muscles.
Tarataka (gazing)
Sit in a comfortable position on the floor or on a chair. Place a candle at eye level and at an arm’s distance away. Now concentrate your gaze on the flame of the candle with eyes wide open. Try not to blink, until you tear. Then close your eyes and try to focus the image of the candle on the point between the eyebrows for as long as you can.
Repeat once more, then close your eyes and rest, as you breathe deeply.
Benefits: This exercise cleanses the eyes and helps build focus for meditation.
Hastla (palming)
Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position or on a chair keeping the spine straight. Relax the entire body and stay in this position focusing on the breath.
Join the palms together and rug them vigorously to warm them. When they are warm, close your eyes, cup your palms and lightly place them on the eyes, without putting pressure on your cheekbones.
Hold the pose for a few breaths and the repeat. Then open the eyes open and breathe deeply.
Benefits: The regular practise of palming releases stress from the optic nerves and calms irritation in the eyes.
Seema Sondhi discovered yoga when she suffered three lumbar slipped discs and was advised complete bed rest. Over the last 18 years, she has trained and been certified from the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre and Matthew Sweeney. She has also written six books on the subject.
Asanas are not meant as a substitute for medication. Please check with your doctor.
