International Yoga Day 2024: 4 Yoga Poses That Will Help Improve Eyesight

International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on June 21st to promote yoga's benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. It was first proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and has been observed globally since 2015.

The theme for International Yoga Day 2024 is 'Yoga for Self and Society,' highlighting how yoga connects us with ourselves, others, and nature. It's more than just exercise; yoga helps reduce stress, increase flexibility, and improve balance.

The World Health Organization supports regular yoga practice to reduce physical inactivity and lower risks of diseases like cancer, heart problems, and diabetes.

This day raises awareness about yoga's advantages and encourages people to lead healthier lives. In 2024, we focus on yoga's impact on eye health, discussing four poses that can naturally improve eyesight. By practicing these poses daily, you can maintain good vision and prevent eye problems, enhancing your overall well-being.

# Palming (Trikonasana)

Palming is a simple yet effective yoga technique that provides relaxation and rejuvenation to the eyes. It helps alleviate eye strain caused by prolonged exposure to digital screens, reading, or other visually intensive activities. To perform palming:

- Sit comfortably with your eyes closed and take a few deep breaths to relax.
- Rub your palms together vigorously until they become warm.
- Gently cup your warm palms over your closed eyes, ensuring no pressure is applied.
- Feel the warmth and darkness surround your eyes as you let go of any tension.
- Stay in this position for a few minutes, allowing your eyes to rest and recharge.

Practicing palming regularly can help improve blood circulation to the eyes and reduce eye fatigue.

# Eye-rolling (Netra Chakrasana)

Eye-rolling exercises are beneficial for strengthening the eye muscles and enhancing their flexibility. This practice improves eye coordination and prevents eye strain. Here's how to perform eye-rolling:

- Sit comfortably with your spine erect and shoulders relaxed.
- Focus your gaze on a fixed point straight ahead.
- Slowly rotate your eyes in a clockwise direction, then in an anticlockwise direction.
- Repeat this rotation for 5-10 times in each direction.
- Blink your eyes a few times to relax them before moving on to the next exercise.

Eye-rolling exercises promote better eye mobility and help relieve tension, leading to improved vision.

# The Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

The Fish Pose is a back-bending yoga posture that opens up the chest, throat, and facial muscles. It stimulates blood circulation to the eyes and relieves eye strain, while also providing a gentle stretch to the neck and shoulders. Follow these steps to practice the Fish Pose:

- Lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms alongside your body.
- Place your hands beneath your hips, palms facing downward.
- Inhale deeply, pressing your elbows into the ground and arching your chest upward.
- Gently tilt your head backward, allowing the crown of your head to rest on the floor.
- Hold this pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute while breathing deeply.
- Slowly release the pose by lowering your chest, lifting your head, and relaxing your body.

Regular practice of the Fish Pose can improve circulation to the eyes, reduce eye strain, and enhance overall eye health.

# The Eagle Pose (Garudasana)

The Eagle Pose is a balancing yoga posture that requires focus and concentration. It enhances blood flow to the eyes and strengthens the eye muscles. Practicing the Eagle Pose can also improve concentration and alleviate mental stress. Here's how to perform the Eagle Pose:

- Stand tall with your feet together and arms by your sides.
- Bend your knees slightly and shift your weight onto your left foot.
- Lift your right foot and cross it over your left thigh, balancing on your left leg.
- Extend your arms forward and cross your right arm over your left arm, bending at the elbows.
- Press your palms together, ensuring your elbows are at a 90-degree angle.
- Hold this pose for 30 seconds while maintaining steady breaths.
- Release the pose slowly and repeat on the other side.

By practicing the Eagle Pose regularly, you can enhance the strength and flexibility of your eye muscles, leading to improved eyesight.

Note: Remember to practice these poses with mindfulness and consistency, and consult with a yoga instructor or healthcare professional if you have any underlying eye conditions.