Your concerns about eye health, particularly relating to the retina, and the symptoms you mentioned, can be understood through the lens of Ayurveda. Eye health is indeed associated with Pitta dosha due to its relation to digestion and metabolic heat, and Vata can also play a role when considering symptoms like dryness or strain. Your long hours in front of digital screens can contribute to eye strain and discomfort, possibly due to increased Vata and Pitta imbalances from the heat and stress of screen exposure.
To nourish your eyes and protect the retina, start by introducing foods rich in antioxidants and vitamin A into your diet. Include leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, and foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts and flaxseeds. Incorporating ghee into your daily meals will also help lubricate the eyes and balance Pitta.
For immediate relief and protection against screen exposure, practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something 20 feet away to reduce strain. Additionally, simple eye exercises like rolling your eyes, shifting focus between near and far objects, and palming can promote relaxation.
Ayurvedic herbs like Amla can help due to its rich vitamin C content and antioxidant properties, aiding retinal health. Triphala can also be beneficial as it detoxifies and nourishes the body, including the eyes. You can prepare a soothing eye wash using Triphala: dissolve half a teaspoon of Triphala powder in warm water, strain it, and use it to wash your eyes, which may help in reducing strain and improving overall health.
For cooling therapies, you might consider placing cucumber slices or soaked cotton balls in rose water over your closed eyes to reduce inflammation and refresh the eyes after long screen time. If dry eyes are an issue, you could benefit from using a few drops of medicated ghee, like Dhanvantaram Taila, in the eyes, which are traditionally recommended for eye health.
Incorporating these Ayurvedic practices can help build resilience against retinal stress and promote better vision over time. Regularly monitoring your eye strain and making these dietary and lifestyle adjustments should enhance your overall eye health significantly. If symptoms persist, however, consulting an eye specialist is advisable for further evaluation.
