Exercises for Nearsighted Eyes

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a condition in which people cannot clearly see objects at a distance. Usually, their vision is clear for objects that are up close. Although many people with myopia choose simply to wear glasses, contacts or eventually get LASIK surgery, there are several exercises that sufferers of myopia can do to improve their vision.

Go Without Glasses

• If you are just developing myopia, or having a very slight case, you might be able to reverse it by not wearing glasses or corrective lenses. Forcing your eyes to work harder can strengthen and improve your eyesight. For those with stronger cases of nearsightedness, wear an old pair of glasses that have a lower prescription; you will still be able to see adequately, but your eyes will be challenged to work harder to define the images. This exercise can improve or reverse myopia, says the American Vision Institute.

Figure Eights

• The figure eight exercise will work your eye muscles' flexibility, therefore strengthening them. Begin with several deep breaths. Stand or sit in a comfortable position with your feet placed shoulder width apart and your hands hanging relaxed at your sides. Without wearing glasses or corrective lenses, visualize a figure eight about 10 feet in front of you. Slowly, have your eyes shape the path of this figure eight without moving your head. Trace in one direction for several rotations, then trace in the opposite direction. Maintain a relaxed position, and breathe and blink regularly.

Scanning

• Scanning objects in various environments will increase blood flow to the eyes and releases tension. This exercise can help improve eye health and strength. Remove any glasses or corrective lenses, take several deep breaths and then begin scanning your environment. During this exercise, you can sit, stand or walk around. While observing objects, avoid staring in one fixed place, but rather let your eyes drift across the environment. Continue breathing to release any tension. Let your eye movements be fluid and relaxed.

Near and Far Focus

• Changing your eyes between near and far focus will challenge your eyes to adjust with ease and will improve eye strength. With glasses or contact lenses removed, take a series of deep breaths and stand or with feet placed shoulder width apart. Raise your right or left arm toward your face, and position your thumb in front of your nose so that it is about six inches away from your eyes. Look directly at your thumb. Transition your focus onto an object about 10 feet away behind your thumb. Transition between the near and far objects, allowing your eyes to fully adjust before switching each time.