Eye Qigong

The optic nerve connects to the vagus nerve, playing an important role in our central nervous system. Simply looking around with your eyes (you can move your head, but the motion must come from the eyes) and mentally naming the objects you see can be a powerfully calming, presencing practice. You can also move your eyes in this way with your eyes closed.

EYE QIGONG ROUTINE: Repeat each movement at least 5 times. Keep your head and whole body relaxed and remember to breathe the entire time. It’s ok if your head wants to follow the eyes, but the eyes must lead. You’ll want to take the eyes to their maximum range within the concept of “stretch not stress.” It’s normal if it feels strange to stretch your vision in this way, but don’t create pain. This may feel more natural, and your range may grow, with practice. Take as many breaks as you need by looking straight ahead or closing your eyes while continuing to breathe deeply.

-Up / Down

-Left / Right

-Upper Right Corner / Lower Left Corner

-Upper Left Corner / Lower Right Corner

-Clockwise Circles

-Counter Clockwise Circles

-Near / Far: One option is to hold your thumb about a foot in front of your eyes and look from it to as far away as you can see.

-Blink rapidly as you look all around.

Integration: Rub your hands together to create warmth and gently cup your eyes. Take a few deep breaths into this darkness, relaxing your eyes into their sockets as deeply as possible. Then cover your ears with your palms, fingers pointing to the back of your head. “Drum” on the back of your brain with your fingers.