For sparkling eyes Susheela Srinivas - wellbeing

Hectic lifestyles plus continuous exposure to computer screens and pollutants are responsible for the tiredness we feel in our eyes. This, along with the lack of quality sleep, makes them appear red and tired, often in the company of dark circles. Here are a few pointers to keep that healthy sparkle in your eyes:

Give your eyes a regular “eye bath”. Fill a bowl with clean water (preferably filtered). Now gently dip your face into the bowl keeping your eyes open. Try to rotate the eyeballs side to side. This will clean the eyes of dust and other elements. Withdraw. Keep eyes closed and pat dry the eyelids. This technique is a good eye exercise as well. Or, you can cup your palms with water and dip the eyes.

When your eyes feel extremely tired and begin to droop, close them gently and lie down. Place chilled, used tea-bags on them and try taking a short nap. This will instantly perk up the eyes, especially after a tiring journey.

Getting good sleep on a daily basis is essential for healthy eyes. Do this routine before going to bed: take any oil like coconut or olive and warm it. Dip fingertips in the oil and gently massage the eyelids in a circular motion. This will relax you instantly and help you get good sleep.

Cucumber is a proven tonic for refreshing eyes. Extract juice from half a cucumber and refrigerate. Before sleeping, dip cotton wool in this cool liquid. Gently press and place on eyes. Sleep with these pads on. Next morning, wash with water. You will notice that the tiredness has gone. Alternatively, place chilled cucumber slices on the eyes to cool and refresh them instantly.

Whenever you feel eye strain while working, close your eyes gently and massage with finger tips in circular motion. Keep eyes closed for a few minutes after this.

Often, in our habit of gazing at screens, we forget to blink our eyes sufficiently. Blinking helps retain moisture in our eyes and keep the tear glands active. So, keep this in mind and remember to blink often in order to prevent ‘dry eyes’.