Using An Eye Pillow To Relax Your Eyes
Whether it’s from screen time, harsh lighting or the stress of daily life our eyes need a break. One easy and soothing way to give your eyes what they need is to use an eye pillow. Eye pillows are not just a luxury, but a practical tool for relaxation and eye health. In this post, we’ll go over the benefits of pillows for eyes and how to use them correctly and safely.
The Benefits Of Using A Pillow For Your Eyes
Using a pillow on your eyes comes with a range of benefits for your overall well-being. Here are a few of them:
Relieves Tension And Stress
Eye pillows are designed to apply gentle pressure on the eyes and surrounding areas which helps to relieve tension and stress. The weight of the pillow on your eyes can be calming and reduce the stress and anxiety built up throughout the day. The slight pressure stimulates the vagus nerve which is associated with relaxation and stress relief. By using a pillow regularly on your eyes, you can reduce stress levels significantly.
Helps With Headaches And Migraines
For those who get headaches and migraines, eye pillows can be a lifesaver. The cooling effect of some pillows can help relieve the throbbing pain of a headache. Some pillows can be chilled in the fridge before use and provide a cold compress that reduces inflammation and numbs the pain. The gentle pressure on the eyes can also help relieve tension in the forehead and temples which are often affected during a headache.
Aids In Sleep And Relaxation
Eye pillows are a great tool for those who struggle with sleep. The darkness of the pillow tells your body it’s time to rest and produces melatonin in the sleep hormone. Many pillows are filled with lavender or other calming herbs which release a calming scent that helps with the relaxation and falling asleep faster. Whether used for a quick nap or a full night’s sleep an eye pillow can improve your sleep quality.
Reduces Eye Strain And Fatigue
Looking at screens for hours can cause eye strain and fatigue. Pillows give your eyes a break from the harsh light of screens. The gentle pressure and darkness relax the eye muscles and reduce the discomfort of eye strain. Using a pillow for a few minutes can refresh your eyes and your overall body.
How To Use It
Using an eye pillow is straightforward. Here’s how:
- Find a quiet spot to lie down or sit
- Close your eyes and put the pillow over them.
- Breathe deep and relax.
- Leave it there for 10-15 minutes or as long as you need.
- Remove the pillow and open your eyes slowly.
What Materials Are Eye Pillows Made Of?
Pillows for eyes come in many materials, each with its own benefits. Here are some common materials used in pillows:
Organic Materials
Many pillows are made of organic materials like cotton, silk or flaxseed. These are gentle on the skin and have a natural breathable cover. Organic cotton and silk are popular choices because they are soft and hypoallergenic.
Lavender And Other Herbs
Some pillows have dried lavender or other herbs in them which can enhance the relaxing experience. Lavender is known for its calming properties so it's a great addition to an eye pillow. Other herbs like chamomile, rosemary or peppermint can be used for their therapeutic benefits.
Essential Oils
In addition to herbs, some pillows have essential oils in them. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus or bergamot can provide aromatherapy benefits and enhance relaxation. The gentle scent released by the pillow can calm the mind and make you feel good.
Are They Safe To Use?
Eye pillows are generally safe to use for most people. But consider any allergies or sensitivities to the materials used in the pillow. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, choose pillows made from hypoallergenic materials. Also make sure the pillow isn’t too heavy or too full, as too much pressure on the eyes can be uncomfortable. If you have any pre-existing eye conditions, consult with a doctor before using an eye pillow.
How To Clean And Maintain Them
To prolong the life of your pillow and get continued benefits here’s what to do:
- Check the care instructions from the manufacturer.
- If the eye pillow has a removable cover, wash it according to the instructions.
- If the pillow doesn’t have a removable cover, spot-clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Let the eye pillow air dry completely before using it again.
- Store the pillow in a cool dry place to prevent moisture and mold.
Regular cleaning and proper storage will keep your eye pillow fresh and hygienic.
What Are The Different Types Of Pillows?
Pillows for eyes come in many forms, each with its own benefits. Here are 3 types of pillows:
Traditional Eye Pillows
Traditional pillows are filled with flaxseed or rice and provide gentle pressure on the eyes. They’re for relaxation and stress relief and can be heated in the microwave for a warm treat or cooled in the freezer for a cool one.
Cooling Eye Pillow
Cooling pillows are for puffiness and swelling. They are usually filled with gel or other cooling stuff and can be chilled in the fridge or freezer before use. They are particularly good for eye strain and fatigue.
Aromatherapy Pillow
Aromatherapy pillows are infused with essential oils or dried herbs for extra relaxation. The scents released by these pillows will calm your mind and add to the overall experience. These pillows are ideal for those who want to combine the benefits of eye pillows with the benefits of aromatherapy.
Using an eye pillow is easy and simple to relax and reboot your eyes. Whether you need relief from tension, headaches or eye strain or just want to improve sleep, eye pillows have many benefits. By using an eye pillow daily and choosing the right one and material you can have calming and restful eyes.
