How to Use Inversion Exercises for Poor Eye Circulation

Use inversion therapy to increase the flow of blood to areas such as the eyes.

Inversion therapy is the practice of hanging upside down or positioning the body with the lower portion above the upper portion. By placing the body at an inverted angle, the force of gravity increases the flow of blood to the upper torso, particularly the head and neck, while alleviating pressure on the spine. Increasing circulation allows more oxygen to be delivered to areas that are normally above the heart, creating possible therapeutic benefits. Combining inversion with gentle exercise can multiply this effect in target areas such as the lower back, neck and eyes.

Things You'll Need

• Gravity boots or inversion board

Instructions

Inversion Exercise

1. Place your body at an incline with your legs placed higher than your head or suspend yourself from your gravity boots. You will feel pressure in your head as gravity increases the circulation to your head, eyes and skin.

2. Roll your eyes toward your forehead as far as you can. Hold this position for four seconds, then return the eyes to their normal position.

3. Look toward your chest, rolling the eyes as far down as possible. Hold this position for four seconds, then allow the eyes to return to their normal position.

4. Turn your eyes as far to the right as possible as if you were looking at your ear. Hold for four seconds, then allow the eyes to return to their normal position.

5. Turn your eyes as far left as possible. Hold for four seconds than allow the eyes to return to their normal position.

6. Rotate the eyes moving slowly in a large circle. Circle to the right and then to the left.

7. Try to focus both of your eyes on the tip of your nose and hold for four seconds. Release the eyes and allow them to return to their normal position.

8. Return to an upright position or repeat the sequence if you feel comfortable being inverted longer. Beginners should set a goal of 20 to 30 seconds of inversion at a slight angle and gradually work their way up to full inversion for longer periods of time.

Tips & Warnings

• Set a goal for one to two minutes a day for the first week and gradually increase your time as well as the angle at which you are inverted for the best results. With practice you can work your way up to 15 minutes twice a day hanging at a 90-degree angle or full inversion.

• If at any point you feel uncomfortable, stop the inversion exercise and return to an upright position.

• People with heart disease, eye disorders such as glaucoma, high blood pressure or those who are pregnant should not begin inversion therapy without first consulting their primary health care provider because this therapy causes a natural increase in both blood pressure and pressure within the eye.

References

• Inversion Therapy FAQ
• Exercises for Your Eyes