In this article, we will explore a set of eye exercises that can help improve your eyesight. These exercises were learned at the School for Perfect Eyesight in Pondicherry, which follows the teachings of Dr. Ares Agarwal, an ophthalmologist and devotee of Sri Aurobindo. These exercises, combined with natural healing methods and a proper diet, have been effective in reversing refractive errors. Whether you have refractive errors or simply want to strengthen your eye muscles and improve eye coordination, these exercises can be beneficial.
The Founder and Legacy of Dr. Ares Agarwal:
Dr. Ares Agarwal, a renowned ophthalmologist and devotee of Sri Aurobindo, established the School for Perfect Eyesight in Pondicherry. His son, Dr. MS Agarwal, also became an ophthalmologist and founded Dr. Agarwal's Eye Institute. Dr. Ares Agarwal has written several books on eye care and treatment, including "Mind and Vision" and "Yoga of Perfect Sight," which provide valuable insights into maintaining healthy vision.
Initial Assessment and Eye Care Routines:
At the School for Perfect Eyesight, an initial assessment of your eyesight is conducted, and a personalized prescription is provided. You are then guided to attend a set of eye care routines, typically consisting of 14 sessions held over a week. Each session lasts for about an hour. These exercises aim to gradually reduce refractive errors. It is important to continue these exercises until your myopic power reaches zero or normal levels.
Exercise 1: Sun Gazing or Sun Treatment:
Perform this exercise in the morning or evening, about an hour after sunrise or before sunset. Find a place where sunlight falls on you and gently sway your body like a pendulum for 2-5 minutes. You can do this exercise with eyes open or closed. If sunlight is limited, use an artificial yellow light bulb (150-200 watts) while maintaining a safe distance.
Exercise 2: Eye Wash:
Eye washes are a great way to reduce strain and stress in your eyes. After sun treatment, fill a pair of eye cups with clean water and dip your eyes into them. Blink gently for about 10 to 30 times. Eye washes can be done at regular intervals throughout the day to refresh your eyes. Different types of eye washes and their benefits can be explored further in a separate video.
Exercise 3: Palming:
Palming is an important exercise that soothes and energizes the eyes. It can be done throughout the day as needed, particularly during times when you spend extended periods using electronic devices. Rub your palms together until a mild heat is generated, then gently close your eyes and place your palms over them. Ensure that your fingers do not touch your eyes to avoid strain. Sit comfortably with your hands resting on a table and maintain this position for about 30 seconds to 5 minutes. Afterward, remove your palms, still keeping your eyes closed. Position your palms straight in front of your eyes, slowly open your eyes, and look into your palms. This allows the energy stored in your eyes to be passed on to your palms, which you can then bring to your face and head for re-energizing.
Exercise 4: Eye Massage:
Apply pressure to specific pressure points around the face, hands, and feet to activate the nerves connected to the eyes. For detailed guidance on these acupressure points, refer to our separate video guide.
Exercise 5: Ball Game:
Take a tennis ball and throw it in a way that you can catch it with the other hand, forming a "V" shape. Blink and follow the ball's movement with your eyes. Repeat for 3-4 minutes. Then, move your hand in a "U" shape while holding the ball and blink as it reaches the other hand. Perform this exercise for another 3-4 minutes.
Exercise 6: Bar Swing:
Stand or sit near a window with bars or any similar structure. Sway gently from side to side, blinking when you reach each side. Do this exercise with both eyes open, then cover each eye separately, totaling three sets of 3-4 minutes.
Exercise 7: Wall Game:
Find a single-colored wall, preferably white, and perform the same swaying motion as in the bar swing exercise. Blink at each end while focusing on the wall. Repeat with both eyes open, then cover each eye separately, also for three sets of 3-4 minutes.
Final Words
These exercises, when done correctly and consistently, can contribute to better vision and eye health. However, remember that individual results may vary. For a comprehensive understanding of eye care and additional exercises, please check out our other videos. These exercises can benefit anyone, not just individuals with refractive errors.