How to relieve eye strain at home: 9 acupressure tips to reduce tired eyes

On average, Vietnamese people spend 6–8 hours daily looking at phone screens, computers, and televisions. This leads to increasingly common conditions such as eye strain, dry eyes, eye socket pain, and blurred vision, especially among office workers, students, and frequent users of electronic devices. Many people still feel heavy, burning, and unfocused eyes even after resting—as if their eyes are "overloaded" after many hours of continuous work.

One of the most sought-after methods today is acupressure for eye strain due to its simplicity, ease of practice at home, and low cost. This method uses gentle pressure on points around the eyes or on the body to help relax eye muscles, reduce tension, and alleviate discomfort caused by overworked eyes.

In this article, you will understand how to perform acupressure to relieve eye strain, common acupressure points for eye relaxation, as well as important notes for safe and effective daily application.

Acupressure to relieve eye strain

Locate the acupoint between the forehead and the bridge of the nose

This position is often used in acupressure for eye strain, helping to relax the eye area when looking at a screen for too long.

1. Place your fingertip or knuckle in the indentation between your two eyebrows, right where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead.
2. Gently press and massage in small circular motions for about 30–60 seconds.
3. Maintain moderate pressure to create a comfortable feeling; avoid pressing too hard to prevent eye pain.

Applying pressure correctly to this point can help reduce feelings of tension around the eyes and mild headaches caused by continuous eye work.

Massage the acupoint under the eyes to relieve eye pain

The area under the eyes is prone to feelings of heavy eyes, dark circles, and eye strain after long periods of focused work.

1. Place two fingertips on the area directly under the eyes, near the orbital bone.
2. Gently press and massage evenly on both sides for about 1 minute.
3. Combine with slow breathing to help facial and eye muscles relax better.

This method is often used by many to help reduce dry eyes, alleviate eye pain, and improve discomfort when using phones or computers for many hours continuously.

Gently rub the outer corner of the eye to help eyes relax

The outer corner of the eye is an area prone to tension when the eyes have to adjust continuously, especially for office workers and those who frequently read small text.

1. Place your fingertip at the outer corner of your eye.
2. Gently massage in small circles for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Perform slowly and evenly to help the muscles around the eyes relax.

The habit of massaging eyes to relieve strain daily can help eyes feel more comfortable and reduce the burning sensation after long periods of studying or working.

Part 1: Acupressure around the eyes for immediate relief from strain

Tip 1: How to massage around the eyes to relieve eye strain

Massaging the acupoints around the eyes is a method many people use to help relieve eye strain, relax eye muscles, and reduce feelings of tension after long periods of screen time. You should perform this evenly around the eye area and hold for about 10 seconds at each acupoint for better results.

Use fingertips or knuckles to gently massage

To properly perform acupressure around the eyes, you can use your fingertips or knuckles to apply just enough pressure without causing discomfort.

1. Gently place your fingertip on the acupoint area around the eye.
2. Keep your fingernails from touching the skin directly to avoid scratches or irritation.
3. Massage gently, do not press too hard on the sensitive eye area.

Applying the correct pressure will help the eye area relax naturally and more effectively reduce feelings of heavy eyes.

Massage in small circles to relax eye muscles

Many people tend to rub back and forth around the eyes, but small circular movements are a more suitable way to perform eye massage for pain and strain relief.

1. Move your fingertips in small, slow circles.
2. Keep your fingers straight so that the pressure is evenly distributed.
3. Perform evenly around the eye socket to help relax the entire muscle area around the eyes.

This technique can help increase comfort and support the reduction of eye muscle tension after long periods of studying or working.

Locate the correct acupoints around the eyes

When massaging, you may feel some points that are slightly sore or recessed. These are often the points many people use in acupressure for eye strain relief at home.

1. Move your hand slowly around the eye socket area.
2. Find points that feel tense or slightly sensitive when gently pressed.
3. Hold and massage each point for about 10 seconds before moving to another position.

Correctly identifying the points will make the massage more effective and comfortable.

Do not apply pressure directly to the eyes

When performing eye massage for strain relief, you should only work on the skin and muscles around the eyes, not touch or rub directly on the eyeball.

1. Only massage around the eye socket and the orbital bone.
2. Avoid using strong force on the eyelids or eyes.
3. If eyes are swollen, painful, or very sore, rest before performing the massage.

Proper execution will help the eyes relax more safely and reduce discomfort after the massage.

Tip 2: Acupressure between the eyes to relieve eye strain

The acupoint between the eyes is a familiar spot in many acupressure methods for eye strain and relaxing the eye area after prolonged work with computers or phones. This area is in the small indentation where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead.

How to locate the acupoint between the eyes

To find the correct position, you can follow these simple steps:

1. Use your fingertip to touch the area between your two eyebrows.
2. Move gently down to the indentation just above the bridge of your nose.
3. This area often feels slightly tender when pressed correctly.

Some people believe that a more effective acupoint is located slightly to either side of the bridge of the nose, closer to the inner corner of the eye. You can gently try to find the position that provides clearer relaxation.

How to massage acupoints to relieve eye pain and strain

After locating the acupoint, gently massage it to help relax your eyes.

1. Use your fingertip to gently press the acupoint.
2. Massage in small circular motions for about 30–60 seconds.
3. Maintain moderate pressure and breathe slowly to help your facial muscles relax more.

This massage technique is often applied to help reduce eye strain, alleviate feelings of heaviness in the forehead, and relax the eyes after prolonged focus.

Notes when performing acupressure around the eyes

The area around the eyes is quite sensitive, so gentle manipulation is needed to avoid discomfort.

1. Do not press too hard on the bridge of the nose or eye sockets.
2. Avoid letting fingernails touch the skin around the eyes.
3. Stop if unusual pain or irritation occurs.

Maintaining a proper eye massage routine for strain relief can help your eyes feel more comfortable after continuous hours of screen work.

Tip 3: Massage the acupoint under the eyes to relieve tension and strain

The area under the eyes is one of the spots commonly used in home acupressure methods for eye strain. When massaged correctly, this area can help relax the eyes and reduce feelings of heaviness after long periods of work.

How to locate the acupoint under the eyes

The massage point is located directly under the eye, in the central area of the lower eye socket.

1. Gently touch the bone area directly below the eye with your fingertip.
2. Identify the central position under the eye, where there's a slight indentation.
3. Avoid touching the eyeball directly or pulling hard on the skin around the eye.

This is an area many people target to help reduce eye pain, relax eye muscles, and improve discomfort when eyes are working continuously.

How to massage correctly to relieve eye strain

Gentle and appropriate massage will help the eye area feel more comfortable without putting pressure on the delicate skin.

1. Place your fingertip on the position under the eye.
2. Massage in small circular motions for about 30–60 seconds.
3. Maintain light pressure and perform slowly to allow the muscles around the eyes to relax naturally.

You can perform this movement after using a computer, phone, or reading for a long time to help reduce eye strain caused by screens.

Notes when performing acupressure around the eyes

The area under the eyes is quite sensitive, so careful manipulation is needed to avoid irritation.

1. Do not rub or press too hard on the skin under the eyes.
2. Keep hands clean before massaging eyes.
3. If eyes are swollen, painful, or red for a prolonged period, limit strong manipulation and get adequate rest.

Maintaining a proper relaxing eye massage routine daily can help your eyes feel more comfortable and reduce feelings of tension after many hours of continuous focus.

Tip 4: Acupressure on the outer corner of the eye to relieve eye strain

The outer corner of the eye is a position commonly used in acupressure methods for eye strain to help relax eye muscles and reduce feelings of tension after long periods of screen time.

How to locate the acupoint at the outer corner of the eye

The massage point is located at the outermost part of the eye, right next to the outer corner and near the orbital bone.

1. Gently touch the outer part of the eye with your fingertip.
2. Find the position located just outside the corner of the eye, where there's a slight indentation or tension when pressed.
3. Avoid pulling hard on the skin around the eye, as this area is quite sensitive.

Some people also often massage the position between the lower eye and the outer corner of the eye to help reduce eye pain and strain more effectively.

How to massage the outer corner of the eye correctly

Gentle and even massage helps the muscles around the eyes relax more naturally.

1. Place your fingertip on the outer corner of the eye.
2. Massage in small circular motions for about 30–60 seconds.
3. Perform slowly and maintain light pressure to avoid discomfort.

This method is often used by many to help reduce eye tension, alleviate feelings of heavy eyes, and relax after many hours of continuous work.

Combine with massage around the eyes to increase effectiveness

To make eye massage for strain relief more effective, you can combine massaging multiple positions around the eyes instead of focusing on just one point.

1. Start from the area between the two eyes.
2. Move down to the area under the eyes.
3. Continue to gently massage the outer corner of the eye.

Regular practice can help the eyes relax better and reduce discomfort caused by excessive eye adjustment throughout the day.

Notes when performing acupressure around the eyes

1. Do not press directly on the eyeball.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly before massaging your eyes.
3. Stop if you experience unusual pain or irritation.

Proper acupressure around the eyes at home can be a simple relaxation step to help your eyes "unwind" after a day of continuous exposure to electronic screens.

Tip 5: Massage the acupoint between the eyebrows for the eyes

The area between the eyebrows is one of the points often used in acupressure for tired eyes to relax the eye area and reduce feelings of tension when the eyes have been working for too long.

How to locate the acupoint between the eyebrows

This acupoint is located directly above the pupil, in the middle of the eyebrow.

1. Look straight into a mirror to pinpoint the pupil's position.
2. Place your fingertip on the eyebrow area directly above the pupil.
3. When you hit the right spot, you might feel a slight dull ache or mild tension.

This is a common spot many people massage to help relieve eye strain, relax muscles around the eyes, and reduce pressure in the forehead area.

How to massage this acupoint to relieve eye strain

Gentle and proper massage will make your eyes feel more comfortable after long periods of looking at screens or reading.

1. Use your fingertip to massage in small circles.
2. Perform gently for about 30-60 seconds.
3. Maintain a slow and steady rhythm to allow the muscles around the eyes to relax naturally.

This method is often applied in relaxing eye massages for office workers, students, and frequent electronic device users.

Additional massage along the eyebrows

In addition to the main point between the eyebrows, many people also combine massaging positions along both eyebrows to enhance eye relaxation.

1. Move your fingertip from the middle of the eyebrow towards the tail of the eyebrow.
2. Gently massage each small point along the eyebrow.
3. Focus on areas that feel tense or slightly sensitive when pressed gently.

Massaging the entire eyebrow area can help relieve eye strain, reduce the feeling of heaviness in the forehead, and help the eyes relax better after many hours of concentration.

Notes when massaging around the eyes

1. Do not apply too much pressure on the eyebrow area and eye sockets.
2. Keep your hands clean before performing eye massage.
3. If your eyes are painful, red, swollen, or experiencing prolonged discomfort, you should rest and monitor them further.

Maintaining a proper acupressure routine around the eyes to relieve strain every day can help your eyes recover better after continuous hours of screen time.

Part 2: Tips for quick eye massage and acupressure to relieve fatigue

Tip 1: Acupressure on Fengchi point to relieve eye strain

The Fengchi acupoint is a familiar location in many acupressure methods for tired eyes, helping to relax the head and neck area and reduce eye fatigue after prolonged concentration.

How to locate the Fengchi acupoint

This acupoint is located at the base of the skull, at the back of the head.

1. Touch the back of your neck.
2. Find the slight depression located just below the hairline, near the center of the skull base.
3. When you press the right spot, you might feel a slight tension or dull ache.

This is a common spot many people massage to help relieve headaches, reduce eye strain, and relax the neck and shoulder area.

How to properly massage the Fengchi acupoint

Massaging with the right pressure can help your head and eyes feel more comfortably relaxed.

1. Use your fingertip to gently massage in small circles.
2. Perform for about 30-60 seconds.
3. Maintain a slow and steady rhythm to relax the neck and head muscles.

Many people apply this method after working long hours in front of a computer to help reduce eye strain from screens and alleviate feelings of heaviness in the head.

How to use your middle finger to apply gentle, natural pressure

In addition to regular massage, you can try applying gentle pressure to the Fengchi acupoint using your head position.

1. Place your middle fingertip on the acupoint at the back of your head.
2. Gently tilt your head back to create natural pressure.
3. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly release.

You can also use your thumb instead of your middle finger if you find it easier to manipulate.

Relaxing effects on the head and eyes

The Fengchi acupoint is often chosen by many people in eye strain relief massages because this area is connected to the head, neck, and eyes.

1. Helps reduce feelings of eye tension and fatigue.
2. Helps relax the neck and shoulder area after sitting for a long time.
3. Helps reduce feelings of head heaviness and difficulty concentrating.

When combining massage around the eyes and the Fengchi acupoint, many people feel their body relax as if "relieving accumulated pressure" after a day of continuous work.

Notes when performing acupressure on the neck area

1. Do not press too hard on the back of the neck.
2. Massage gently if you have neck pain or muscle tension.
3. Stop if you experience dizziness or unusual discomfort.

Maintaining a proper acupressure routine for eye and head relaxation can help your eyes and body recover better after prolonged stress.

Tip 2: Acupressure on Tianzhu point to relieve eye strain

The Tianzhu acupoint is a position often applied in acupressure treatments for tired eyes, especially suitable for those who frequently experience neck and shoulder pain, headaches, or eye strain from prolonged computer use.

How to locate the Tianzhu acupoint

The Tianzhu acupoint consists of two points located at the back of the neck, near the muscles on both sides of the cervical spine.

1. First, locate the base of the skull at the back of the head, where the Fengchi acupoint is.
2. From this position, move down about 2–3 cm.
3. Then move 2–3 cm to either side to find the muscle area at the back of the neck.
4. These two points often produce a slightly tense or dull aching sensation when pressed.

This position is often massaged by many people to help relieve eye strain, relax the neck area, and reduce feelings of fatigue after long periods of work.

How to properly massage the Tianzhu acupoint

Gentle massage helps the neck and eye area relax more naturally.

1. Place your two middle fingers on the two acupoints at the back of your neck.
2. Massage in small circles for about 30–60 seconds.
3. Maintain moderate pressure and perform slowly to avoid straining neck muscles.

Many people apply this method to help relieve eye fatigue, reduce feelings of heaviness in the head, and relax after long periods of continuous concentration.

How to apply light pressure with head position

In addition to direct massage, you can combine head movements to create natural pressure on the Tianzhu acupoint.

1. Place two middle fingers on the correct acupoint position.
2. Gently tilt your head back to increase pressure just enough.
3. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly release.

This method helps the back of the neck relax more deeply without needing strong force from the hands.

Supportive effects for eye and neck/shoulder relaxation

The Tianzhu acupoint is often incorporated into massage routines for eye strain and neck/shoulder pain because this area is related to muscle tension in the neck and head.

1. Helps relieve eye strain from working with screens.
2. Helps relax stiff neck and shoulder muscles.
3. Helps relieve mild headaches and feelings of difficulty concentrating.

When massaged correctly, many people feel lighter, as if "untangling knots" accumulated in the neck and eyes after a long day of work.

Notes when performing acupressure on the neck area

1. Do not press too hard on the neck muscles.
2. Perform gently if you have neck pain or stiffness.
3. Stop massaging if you experience dizziness or increased pain.

Maintaining a proper acupressure routine for eye relaxation at home combined with neck massage can help your eyes and body recover better after prolonged stress.

Tip 3: Massage finger joints to relieve eye strain

In addition to acupoints around the eyes and neck/shoulder area, many people also use hand massage to relieve eye strain to help relax the body and reduce feelings of eye tension after long periods of work.

Locating the massage points on the hand

The area typically massaged is at the base of the three middle fingers, including the index, middle, and ring fingers.

1. Slightly spread your hand to easily identify the finger joints.
2. Find the junction between the finger joint and the palm.
3. This area often feels slightly tense when gently pressed.

Some people also massage the area just above the finger joints to help relax the hand and reduce feelings of fatigue.

How to properly massage finger joints

Massaging with the right pressure can help relax hand muscles and better support overall body relaxation.

1. Use the thumb of your other hand to place it on the joint to be massaged.
2. Press gently and move in small circles.
3. Massage each spot for about 30 seconds, then move to another point.
4. Flip your hand over to massage the back of the hand as well.

This method is often applied in acupressure routines for eye and body relaxation for those who work extensively with computers or constantly hold phones.

Thumb rolling technique for gentle pressure

This technique helps to distribute massage pressure evenly and comfortably when applied to the hand joints.

1. Use the pad of your thumb to gently press down on the hand joint.
2. While pressing, roll your thumb up and down in short movements.
3. Move a few millimeters each time for more stable pressure.
4. Combine flexing and extending your thumb slightly while massaging.

This technique helps the hand relax more naturally and reduces feelings of stiffness caused by continuous hand use throughout the day.

Supportive effects for eye and hand relaxation

Many people choose hand massage to relieve eye strain as a quick way to relax when they don't have much time to rest.

1. Helps relieve stiffness in hands and fingers.
2. Helps the body relax after long periods of work.
3. Helps reduce feelings of eye fatigue and mental pressure.

Regular hand massages are like taking a "short break" for your body amidst continuous work.

Notes when massaging finger joints

1. Do not apply too much force on finger joints.
2. Massage gently if your hand is painful or swollen.
3. Stop if prolonged numbness or discomfort occurs.

Combining proper hand massage and acupressure to relieve eye strain can help the body relax better after many hours of studying and working.

Tip 4: Acupressure on Taichong point to relieve eye strain

The Taichong (LV3) point is a location often used in acupressure to treat eye strain, helping to relax the body and reduce feelings of tension after long periods of continuous work.

How to locate the Taichong point on the foot

The point is located on the top of the foot, near the area between the big toe and the second toe.

1. Place your hand on the top of your foot.
2. Find the space between your big toe and the next toe.
3. Move your finger up from the web of your toes by about 2–3 cm.
4. You will feel a slightly concave or sensitive spot when pressed lightly.

This spot is not directly between the two toes but on the top of the foot above the web of the toes.

How to massage the point to relieve eye fatigue

Gentle massage in the correct spot can help the body relax and alleviate tired eyes.

1. Use your fingertip to gently press on the Taichong point.
2. Massage in small circles for about 30–60 seconds.
3. Maintain moderate pressure to create a comfortable, not sharp, sensation.

Many people use this method to help reduce eye strain, alleviate heavy head sensations, and relax after many hours of concentration.

Use your heel to apply gentle pressure

If it's difficult to use your hands, you can use the heel of your other foot to apply gentle pressure to the acupoint.

1. Place your heel on the Taichong acupoint.
2. Gently apply pressure for about 30 seconds.
3. Maintain steady pressure and avoid pressing too hard to prevent foot pain.

This method makes it simpler to massage and relax your eyes at home without needing to use much hand strength.

Effects of supporting body and eye relaxation

The Taichong point is often incorporated by many people into massages to relieve eye strain and stress.

1. Supports body relaxation after a stressful workday.
2. Helps reduce eye strain and mental pressure.
3. Helps relieve stiffness caused by prolonged sitting or inactivity.

Regular foot massages are like "opening a pressure relief valve" for the body after many hours of continuous activity.

Notes when performing foot acupressure

1. Do not apply too much force on the top of the foot.
2. Massage gently if your foot is painful or swollen.
3. Stop if prolonged numbness or discomfort occurs.

Combining foot acupressure to relieve eye strain with proper rest can help the eyes and body relax better in daily life.

When to see an acupressure specialist

If you are unfamiliar with acupressure techniques for eye strain, you can seek guidance from a specialist or experienced person to ensure correct application. Performing the techniques in the right location and with the correct pressure will make the eye massage process safer and more comfortable.

1. Choose a place with trained massage or acupressure practitioners.
2. Clearly communicate your eye condition, such as dry eyes, eye pain, or prolonged eye strain.
3. Observe how the acupoints are identified and how the massage is performed so you can apply it at home.

For beginners, direct guidance will help prevent incorrect pressure points or excessive force around the eyes.

Common causes of eye strain today

One of the reasons many people seek ways to reduce eye strain at home is the increasing amount of time spent using computers and phones.

1. Working continuously in front of a screen for many hours.
2. Staring too long, causing the eyes to continuously adjust.
3. Infrequent blinking when using electronic devices leads to dry eyes and eye pain.

This condition is very common among office workers, students, online workers, or those who frequently use their phones.

How to rest your eyes properly

In addition to massaging eyes to relieve strain, proper rest is also crucial for eye recovery.

1. After about 45–60 minutes of work, give your eyes a few minutes of rest.
2. Look into the distance or observe objects at different distances in the room.
3. Avoid continuously looking at a screen for long periods.
4. Blink frequently to reduce dry eyes and make them feel more comfortable.

Even a few minutes of "relaxing" your eyes can help reduce feelings of tension and help your eyes focus better when you return to work.

Combine massage and eye rest for increased effectiveness

Many people focus only on acupressure to relieve eye pain but forget that eyes also need proper rest.

1. Massage around the eyes helps relax eye muscles.
2. Regular eye rest helps reduce accommodative pressure.
3. Combining both will help the eyes recover more naturally.

Our eyes are like a constantly operating machine — without time to "cool down," feelings of fatigue and strain will become more pronounced over time.

Tips to reduce eye strain when using a computer

1. Adjust screen brightness appropriately.
2. Maintain a reasonable distance between your eyes and the screen.
3. Avoid working continuously for many hours without a break.
4. Get enough sleep to allow your eyes time to recover.

Maintaining proper eye care habits combined with acupressure for eye relaxation can significantly reduce discomfort when frequently exposed to screens.

References

1. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2024). Digital eye strain: Symptoms and treatment. American Academy of Ophthalmology.
2. American Optometric Association. (2023). Computer vision syndrome. American Optometric Association.
3. Bressler, N. M., & Bressler, S. B. (2020). Eye strain and visual fatigue associated with prolonged screen use. Journal of Ophthalmic Health, 14(2), 85–92.
4. Field, T. (2016). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 24, 19–31.
5. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2023). Reflexology: What the science says. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
6. Reflexology Association of America. (2022). Reflexology methods and pressure point practices. Reflexology Association of America.
7. Sánchez-Tena, M. Á., et al. (2019). Symptoms associated with digital eye strain and screen exposure in adults. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(11), 2030.
8. Sheedy, J. E., & Shaw-McMinn, P. G. (2003). Diagnosing and treating computer-related vision problems. Butterworth-Heinemann.
9. World Health Organization. (2021). Healthy screen use and eye care recommendations. World Health Organization.
10. Yates, J. W. (2018). Reflexology and acupressure techniques for relaxation and stress management. Complementary Health Practice Review, 23(4), 211–220.
    

Content edited by: Rowan Hudson Le.

Information reviewed and verified by expert: Ava Anderson.