If someone told you to increase your strength, one of the most popular responses would be to enroll in a gym membership. What if there was something equivalent to a gym without the enormous monthly fee, but for your eyes? It’s true, folks. When it comes to strength, we often focus on biceps, thighs or other visible muscles in our body. However, we fail to remember to strengthen the muscles in our eyes.

 

The Tibetan Eye Chart is like a gym for your eyes. It has been used for generations to increase stimulation of muscles and nerves in the optical system, which can strengthen eye muscles and improve vision. Our eyes contain many tiny capillaries that deliver oxygen and nutrients to the retina, just like the arteries do to the heart. Similar to heart health, diet can have a big impact on eye health. Don’t worry, your future doesn’t contain chomping on bags of carrots alone!

Goji berries contain a powerful antioxidant called zeaxanthin that is easily absorbed and helps maintain eye health by coating the lining of our eyes. They’re also rich in beta-carotene. Just a handful a day keeps the optometrist away. Other food sources rich in zeaxanthin, as well as lutein (another potent antioxidant known for eye health), are kale, brussels sprouts, spinach, and romaine lettuce.

Recent findings help make the case for healthy food choices. For instance, a 2010 study by French scientists found that eating more vegetables – including cabbage, broccoli, pepper, corn, or spinach – improved the condition of the retina in people with age-related macular degeneration. So, the next time you stroll into the gym, don’t forget to show your peepers some love with the Tibetan Eye Chart and some nutritious foods!