Do you have Astigmatism and want to improve your vision naturally? 

According to NIH, Astigmatism is a common vision disorder affecting around 1 in 3 people in the United States. 

It can cause blurred vision, night blindness, squinting, eye strain, and fatigue. 

While it is usually treated with corrective lenses or glasses, studies have shown that eye exercises for Astigmatism are also effective in treating eye disorders. 

These eye exercises strengthen the eye muscle, increase their flexibility, and can slowly improve vision. 

The article discusses some eye exercises for Astigmatism to enhance your vision. 

Rectus muscle relaxation

The Rectus muscle is the group of the four muscles responsible for eye movement. 

Rectus muscle in the eye:
The rectus muscles are located on the outer surface of each eye. These muscles are responsible for controlling the eye’s movement in specific directions. By working together and in opposition, these muscles allow coordinated and precise eye movements in various directions.

The exercise helps relax the rectus muscle and reduces fatigue.  

You can practice the exercise in the following steps,

  1. Focus your attention on an object for 20 seconds
  2. Slowly move your eyes in a clockwise direction 

Perform the exercise 2-3 times a day. 

Focus change exercise

Focus Eye Exercises
Focus eye exercises

Focus change exercise involves the reading activity, which helps to strengthen the eye muscles. 

It is one of the exercises performed in the William Bates method for eye exercises. 

A study published in the National Library of Medicine has shown the positive effects of these exercises on its subject. 

You can follow the below steps to perform the exercise, 

  1. Use corrective glasses or lenses and start reading a book 
  2. Place an object to the side and focus on that after you’ve read one paragraph
  3. Switch back and forth from the object to the book
  4. Continue the exercise until your eyes start to feel tired

You can perform this exercise for 10 minutes, 2-4 times daily. 

Peripheral vision Training

Astigmatism can weaken your peripheral vision, which could lead to eye strain. 

Strengthening your peripheral vision can help to reduce eye strain caused by Astigmatism. 

Follow the below steps to perform the exercise 

  • Take a piece of paper that is enough to cover both the eyes
  • The side should be exposed so you can peek out, strengthening your peripheral vision
  • Wear your corrective lenses and attach the paper to your face at the bridge of your nose
  • Move your hand to the peripheral side of the paper one after another
  • Look at the finger on either side without moving the head
You can watch this video for an easy understanding of the steps.

Eye massage for Astigmatism

Eye massage
Eye massage

Eye massages may relax the ciliary muscles and reduce the spasm. 

You can perform the eye massage in the following steps,

  1. Close your eyes and keep your two fingers on each of your eyelids
  2. Apply gentle pressure on the eyelids, and slowly move your fingers in a circular motion
  3. Move your fingers clockwise as well as anti-clockwise

Repeat it 10–15 times, 2 to 4 times a day.

Warning:
The scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of eye exercises to treat Astigmatism is limited. You must consult your ophthalmologist if you are experiencing any symptoms of the eye disorder.

Conclusion

Eye exercises can offer potential benefits for individuals with Astigmatism if they are practiced regularly. 

These exercises cannot directly correct the irregular shape of the cornea or lens but can help alleviate eye strain and reduce visual discomfort. 

From muscle relaxation and focusing exercises to peripheral vision training, each exercise plays a role in strengthening eye muscles. 

Above all, consulting with an eye care specialist is important for guidance on treatment options for managing Astigmatism. 

Recommended Article:
You may read Clearing Your Vision: Tips and Techniques for Eye Strain Relief to treat eye strain due to Astigmatism. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Astigmatism be corrected with eye exercises?

There is limited evidence to claim that eye exercises can treat Astigmatism completely. However, eye exercises can help to strengthen the eye muscles and reduce eye strain. They can help to reduce vision discomfort. 

How can I naturally improve my Astigmatism?

You can improve Astigmatism naturally by practicing good eye hygiene, eating a nutritious diet, taking regular screen breaks, working in the correct lighting, and doing regular eye exercises. However, you should contact an eye care specialist to evaluate and get proper Astigmatism management advice.

Does eye massage help Astigmatism?

Eye massage can help to relax the eye muscles and reduce eye strain caused by Astigmatism. It cannot completely treat the disorder; you should consult your doctor for proper treatment. 

Citations:
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