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We all know how the importance of vision. Yet, many of us sit staring at a computer monitor most of the day, then go home and watch television or play computer games. Extended viewing of a monitor can lead to eye discomfort. Dry eyes, redness and itchiness can interfere with concentration and even interrupt sleep, both of which have a negative impact on productivity. So, without further ado, take a moment to pamper and CIRCLE YOUR EYES.
How to Circle Your Eyes
Turn your chair away from the monitor, preferably so that you can sit facing a distant view. Sit fully in your chair and lean back. Breathe diaphragmatically one or two breaths and allow the tension to flow out of your body with each exhalation. This exercise is best done with eyes closed.
Now, gently touch with the tips of your index fingers the inside edges of your eyebrows. Let the pressure of your touch feel similar to the weight of a quarter resting on your arm. Begin to make a circular motion with your fingertips, remaining in that one spot. Circle each finger outward - the right circling clockwise, the left counter-clockwise. Maintain contact with your skin, and continue to breathe diaphragmatically. Make sure that you do not lift your shoulders. Continue circling for 5 to 10 seconds.
Slide your fingers along the edge of the bone that encircles your eyes maintaining contact with your eyebrows or skin and stop at the following points. At each point, make small circles for 5 to 10 seconds, always circling outward:
- The center points above your eyes
- The end of your eyebrows
- The outside corners of your eyes
- The center points below your eyes (you should feel a little notch in the bone)
- The point where the bone begins to curve up
Let your hands drop to your lap, inhale, and then as you are exhaling slowly open your eyes and look a distant object or view.
In addition, limit the time spent watching TV or playing computer games.
Give your eyes a break and go for walks in the fresh air where your eyes can feast upon luscious green plants.
The Institute for Holistic Healing Studies and Human Resources sponsor the distribution of Healthy Computing Email Tips.
Copyright 2008 Erik Peper, Ph.D. and Katherine Hughes Gibney.
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Erik Peper, Ph.D. is an international authority on biofeedback and self-regulation. He is Professor and Co-Director of the Institute for Holistic Healing Studies, Department of Health Education. He is President 
