Do you ever catch yourself leaning forward to look at your computer screen, or squinting to reduce the glare from the television at night, or holding a book closer or farther away so you can focus on the words? All three of these actions may be warning signs that you’re not doing all you can to keep your eyes in good shape, and that will have an immediate impact on your speed reading ability. Speed reading depends on having healthy, strong eye muscles. There are six muscles in the face that control the movement of the eye (the extraocular muscles), or the direction you look. There is a set of ciliary muscles inside the eye that change the shape of the lens, which allows you to focus on what you’re looking at. Other muscles change the size of the pupil, which determines how much light reaches the retina. All of these muscles work together in the reading process. Here are some tips to keep in mind to reduce strain on your eye muscles:
Make sure the light level is right. If you’re half-closing your eyes against glare, or peering forward trying to make out words in a dark room, then you’re putting unnecessary strain on your eye muscles. A room that’s too bright is as bad as one that’s too dark. Many people think that by turning off the light it will be easier to see the lighted screen of a television or computer, but in reality it creates too much contrast. Keep a light on but adjust the screen or monitor so that there is no reflection from the light that will interfere with the image. Always make sure there’s enough light for you to easily read any written materials.
Keep your eyes moist. Dry and irritated eyes won’t focus as quickly. Our eyes are mostly liquid, both inside and on the surface, and the natural remedy for dry eyes is the liquid produced by the tear ducts, which is spread across the surface of the eye by the action of the eyelids when we blink. This lubricates the eye while also washing away any dust, pollen, or other irritants. If you don’t blink often enough, your eyes will not get this necessary cleansing. Some people have a hard time producing enough liquid naturally, so artificial tears (eye drops) may be a solution. However, merely remembering to close your eyes and blink more often may be all you need.
Relax the muscles of your face. Although only six muscles directly control the movement of the eyes, all of the muscles of your head, face, and neck are connected. Keep your neck flexible and your shoulders relaxed, and you’ll find that your eyestrain decreases. Do a gentle direct massage of the muscles around your eye, both above and below, if your eyes are feeling tired.
Get regular vision checkups. An ophthalmologist will be able to look inside the eye to check on the internal structures and the action of the muscles. If you need to wear glasses or corrective lenses but you don’t, this places a great deal of stress on the muscles of your eyes, and may age them prematurely.
Keep your eyes in good shape, and your speed reading skills will stay in top form as well.
