If you suffer from dry, irritated eyes, you’re not alone. Whether it’s from staring at screens too long, allergies or environmental factors, dry eyes can be incredibly frustrating. While eye drops and hydration help, another natural method to consider is acupressure. Applying gentle pressure to specific points on the face can promote circulation and relieve discomfort. This simple massage for dry eyes may be just what you need. 

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes happen when your tear glands don’t produce enough moisture or when your tears evaporate too quickly. Several factors can contribute to this:

• Screen time: Staring at a phone, computer or TV for long periods reduces blinking, which leads to dryness. Blue light exposure can harm your retinal cells and lead to age-related macular degeneration. 
• Aging: As you get older, tear production naturally decreases, making dry eyes more common.
• Environmental factors: Wind, smoke and dry air can cause tears to evaporate too quickly.
• Contact lenses: Wearing contacts for extended periods can disrupt tear film balance.
• Certain medications: Antihistamines, decongestants and some antidepressants may reduce tear production.
• Underlying health conditions: Autoimmune disorders or chronic inflammation can affect tear glands.

How Dry Eyes Can Affect Daily Life

Dry eyes are uncomfortable, but they can also interfere with everyday activities. Blurry vision, light sensitivity and a gritty sensation can make reading, driving or working on a computer difficult. In some cases, it may even affect your ability to concentrate and complete visual tasks. Poor eyesight can also lead to eye strain and mental fatigue. If left untreated, chronic dry eyes can also increase the risk of eye infections or corneal damage.   

Key Acupressure Points for Dry Eyes

Acupressure is based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on simulating energy flow -– or Qi — in the body. For dry eyes, several pressure points can help ease irritation and improve moisture balance. 

1. Zan Zhu: Between the Eyebrows and Nose Bridge

Located at the inner edge of your eyebrows — right where they meet the bridge of your nose — this point is excellent for relieving eye strain, headaches and dryness. Gently press and hold for about 30 seconds while taking deep breaths.

2. Cheng Qi: Below the Eyes

Find this point just below the center of each eye, on the cheekbone. Applying light pressure here can reduce eye fatigue and encourage tear production. Be extra gentle since the skin in this area is sensitive.

3. Si Zhu Kong: Outer Edge of the Eyebrows

This point is on the outer end of your eyebrows. Massaging here can relieve eye tension and improve circulation. If your dry eyes come with headaches, this point is especially helpful. 

4. Yu Yao: Center of the Eyebrows

Right in the middle of your eyebrows, this point can ease eye strain and dryness, especially from excessive screen time. Apply gentle, circular pressure.

5. Tai Yang: Temples

Your temples hold a powerful pressure point for overall eye relief. Use two fingers to apply slow, circular motions for instant relaxation. A few minutes of this massage for dry eyes can reduce discomfort. 

6. Jingming: Inner Corners

Located at the inner corner of each eye — near the bridge of the nose — the Jingming point is excellent for reducing eye fatigue and dryness. Gently pressing on this area stimulates circulation and helps refresh tired eyes. 

7. Fengchi: Base of the Skull

This point is at the base of the skull, in the hollows on either side of the spine. It’s known for improving blood flow to the head and eyes, making it helpful for reducing blurry vision, tension headaches and dryness. Massaging this area in slow, circular motions can provide noticeable relief, especially after long hours staring at a screen.

8. Taiyang: Hollows of the Temples

Taiyang is located in the hollows of the temples, slightly to the side of the eyebrows. If you often experience eye strain or tension headaches, this point can be particularly useful. Massaging this area can ease discomfort and promote relaxation. Many people find this point soothing after a long day of work or studying. 

How to Perform an Acupressure Massage for Dry Eyes

If you’re experiencing dry, irritated eyes, it’s worth trying a few acupressure techniques. Professionals recommend massaging a single body part multiple times a day for up to five minutes at a time. Remember to listen to your body’s unique needs and thresholds whenever you practice massage. Here’s how to perform a massage for dry eyes:

• Wash your hands to avoid introducing bacteria to your face.
• Use your index or middle finger to apply gentle but firm pressure.
• Hold each point for 30 seconds to a minute, breathing deeply as you do.
• Repeat twice a day for best results.
• Pair your massage with a cool compress for 10 minutes to relieve inflamed blood vessels. 

Try a Massage for Dry Eye Relief

Acupressure is a simple yet powerful way to relieve dry eyes and reduce strain. By incorporating these pressure points into your routine, you can promote better eye health, improve moisture levels and ease tension naturally. 

Dry eyes can be bothersome, and so can sore muscles after a long day. While acupressure helps refresh tired eyes, a good self-massage tool can work wonders for your entire body. If you’re looking to relieve tension, check out Myobuddy’s lineup of professional strength massage tools and learn how to use them in just minutes. Give your eyes and body the care they deserve.