Eye Matters
December 19, 2008

Palming

Hello Readers: Today we are going to talk about palming. Palming is a relaxation technique that can be used in between other techniques throughout the day. What it does is that it allows you to relax your mind and also your eyes, because all you focus on is just darkness. It also helps to increase your visualization skills.{{more}}

This is how palming is done.

1. Close your eyes and cover them with cupped palms. The palms should not touch the eyelids and your fingers should sort of overlap near the hairline; make sure you have enough room to breathe easily; and rest you elbows on a table. What you should now see is just darkness or blackness. If, however, you see flashes of light, just let them go, they will disappear on their own and allow the darkness to return. Continue focusing on the darkness for a while, or if you choose you can visualize a relaxing scene of your own.

2. Take a deep breath and feel the muscles around your eyes start to relax. Breathe deeply and slowly, in and out, eight times. This technique is a cross between increasing your visualization skills and breathing techniques. Do this technique at least eight times a day, especially before you start an intense task such as computer work or reading.

Let me know how you enjoy this exercise. Email me at beachmont@gmail.com and I promise I will respond. Have a Merry Christmas. Don’t overindulge.

Dr Kenneth Onu is a resident Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Beachmont Eye Institute/Eyes R Us.

Send questions to: Beachmont@gmail.com

Tel: 784 456-1210