Many people who have advanced eye disease have waited too long to improve their vision health. Researchers have linked glaucoma, cataracts, retinal vein occlusions, and other eye conditions to mostly controllable risk factors.

It is important to keep your vision health because it can lead to a better quality of life. You perform better in all aspects of your life when your vision health is at its best. Below are 4 ways you can improve your vision health:

1. Exercise for the Body

Did you know daily exercise is key to your vision health? Exercise is important throughout life and has been shown to improve vision health.. You should try to walk for 30 minutes per day at least. However, a complete workout routine is best; cardio, stretching, and strength training.

2. Exercise Your Eyes

Did you know there are only six small muscles that control each of your eyes? If these muscles are weak or strained, the eyes do not work properly. Daily eye exercises can keep these muscles strong and prevent myopia, astigmatism, and farsightedness.

Here are 3 ways you can exercises your eyes:
– Roll your eyes. Start by looking up and then slowly circle 10 times clockwise and 10 times counterclockwise.
– Focus. Hold a pen at arm’s length and focus your eyes on it. Slowly bring the pen closer away from your nose, then slowly move it back keeping your eyes focused on the pen. Repeat this 10 times.
– Take a mini-nap. Put your head back, close your eyes, and relax for about 3 minutes.

3. Better Screen Habits

Did you know that blue light from phones and other electronic devices may have a negative impact on our eyes? Many people hold screens close to the face or at less than arm’s length for extended periods which weakens the eyes’ muscles and cause eye strain and headaches.

Here are 3 ways to develop better screen habits:
– Limit your screen time to less than 6 hours per day.
– For every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
– Bling more often when using electronics as starting at screens lowers our blink rate.

Related Article: How to Avoid Computer Vision Syndrome

4. Regular Eye Exams

It is important to go to your optometrist regularly to get eye exams done and get treatment for any existing issues and prevent eye health-damaging problems in the future.