Returning to work after the Christmas break means more time on the computer, staring at screens and constant visual stimuli, so taking care of our eyes has become more important than ever.
Eye strain from excessive or prolonged computer use can lead to visual disturbances and headaches.
Here are a few helpful tips to relieve eye strain and support eye health.
● Give your eyes a break, and a stretch.
Take time to exercise your eyes by looking away from the screen. One simple exercise is called 20-20-20. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 meters away, for 20 seconds.
● Address tension in surrounding areas.
Back, neck, shoulder and even scalp tension may be contributing to eye strain and worsening symptoms such as blurry vision or headaches. Acupuncture, cupping and massage are excellent at addressing muscle tension and can be used as supportive treatments to relieve eye strain.
● Try a Chinese herbal tea
Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum) and Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berry), are two traditional Chinese herbs often used for their benefits in supporting and maintaining optimal eye health.
Ju Hua is used for its ability to clear the eyes and cool heat in the system which can irritate and dry out the eyes.
Gou Qi Zi (Goji berry), is a wonderful herb in traditional Chinese medicine with a particular emphasis on aiding vision. These red jewels are used to nourish the blood and Yin (which provides moisture to the eyes), and brighten the vision.
Recipe:
3-4 dried chrysanthemum flowers
6-8 goji berries
Steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes, drink the tea and eat the juicy soaked goji berries.
For more severe conditions of eye strain or irritation, a personalised Chinese herbal formula may be beneficial.
If you struggle with eye strain and would like a consultation with our Chinese Medicine practitioners Michaela Rinkel and Andrew White you can make an appointment using the link below: