Palming

Human eyes evolved in such a way as to fulfill the demands and insure the survival of wanderers, gatherers and hunters. With today’s computers, cell phones, video games, and televisions, our visual focus has suddenly become locked into a narrow depth of field with a fixed distance and glaring light. Although human eyes will need tens of thousands of years to adapt to the new lifestyle, we must find ways to compensate for now.

1. Eyes closed. Cup your right palm gently over your right eye socket and your left over the left eye. Your fingertips will cross and rest on your forehead.

2. Tilt your face downward and rest your elbows against the sides of your body. Keep the spine balanced in good posture and concentrate on your slow, steady deep breathing.

Your palms never actually touch your eyelids but rest instead on the bony sockets that circle your eyes. Remember to keep your palms cupped rather than flat.

Concentrate on your breathing until you feel more relaxed and centered. Then take your hands away from your face, but keep your eyes closed for a few more breath cycles. Blink your eyes several times before you “return to duty.”

Be well. Breathe beautifully.