Screen Fatigue TCM Biohacks
When I moved the clinic to our new location over the Christmas holidays, I imagined immersing myself in the beauty of nature, surrounded by a peaceful pond, and lizards basking in the sun. It was the perfect spot for rejuvenation. But instead of enjoying the view, I found myself chained to my computer, staring at the screen for hours on end. By the time I looked up, squinting to see if I could spot a turtle in the pond, it felt like my eyes had aged a decade overnight.
Here I was, fresh off the high of conquering two Ironmans in 2023, only to be brought down by something as simple as screen fatigue. It was frustrating and a bit ironic—how could someone who just powered through one of the toughest endurance challenges be struggling to spot lizards on the way to the office? I started to feel the effects of eye strain creeping in, and it was a stark reminder that even the strongest bodies can be humbled by the demands of modern life.
But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every health struggle is an opportunity in disguise. My battle with eye strain opened up a whole new world of understanding about how we can protect and strengthen our vision, especially in a world where screens are unavoidable. It also reminded me that the challenges I face are chances to learn more so I can help myself and, more importantly, my clients. So, if you’ve ever found yourself blinking and squinting after a long day at the computer, know that you’re not alone—and that there are simple, effective ways to keep your eyes as sharp as ever.
I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and how we can all keep our vision strong and healthy, no matter how many hours we spend staring at screens.
Zen TCM Eyes
Revitalize Your Eyes: Combatting Computer Vision Syndrome with High-Impact Eye Exercises
In our digital era, prolonged screen time is nearly unavoidable, leading many to experience the discomfort of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Symptoms like eye strain, dryness, and blurred vision can disrupt daily life, making it essential to find effective remedies. High-impact eye exercises, such as those detailed in Z-Health’s comprehensive guide, offer practical solutions to alleviate CVS and improve overall eye health.
Key Eye Exercises to Combat CVS
- The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit reduces eye strain and gives your eyes a chance to refocus.
- Palming: Rub your hands together to generate warmth, then gently cup your palms over your closed eyes. This technique helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce stress.
- Eye Stretches: Regularly moving your eyes in all directions—up, down, left, right, and in circular motions—can help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness caused by long periods of screen focus.
- Focus Shifting: Hold your thumb a few inches from your face and shift focus from your thumb to something far away. This exercise strengthens the eye muscles and improves focus.
TCM Nutrition and Qigong for Eye Health
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers valuable insights into maintaining eye health through nutrition and energy work. In TCM, the eyes are connected to the liver, and nourishing the liver can benefit eye health.
- Foods for Eye Health: Incorporate foods like spinach, carrots, goji berries, and blueberries into your diet. These foods are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are crucial for maintaining healthy vision.
- Qigong Exercises: Qigong practices that focus on the liver can enhance eye health. The Eye Qigong exercise, which involves gentle tapping around the eyes and focused breathing, can help improve circulation and reduce strain.
Reduce Sugar Intake
Reducing sugar intake is another essential step in maintaining eye health. High sugar levels can lead to oxidative stress, which negatively impacts the eyes. By cutting back on sugary foods and beverages, you can reduce your risk of developing eye-related conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy.
Acupuncture and Supplements
Seeing a professional like Dr. Cynthia for acupuncture can further support eye health. Acupuncture can improve circulation to the eyes, reduce strain, and address underlying imbalances that contribute to poor vision.
Additionally, while many eye supplements are available on the market, not all are created equal. It’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable practitioner to determine which supplements are right for you. Unfortunately, some low-quality supplements have been exposed for not containing the ingredients advertised on their labels. For instance, some brands have been found to include fillers instead of the promised nutrients, or to have significantly lower levels of the active ingredients than stated. This is why it’s essential to choose high-quality, reputable products, ideally recommended by a professional.
By integrating these practices—high-impact eye exercises, TCM nutrition, qigong, reduced sugar intake, and professional guidance—you can effectively combat Computer Vision Syndrome and maintain optimal eye health in today’s screen-dominated world.