Preliminary Nasikagra Drishti (preliminary nosetip gazing)

• Sit with the legs straight in front or in a cross-legged pose.
• Hold the left arm straight directly in front of the nose.
• Make a fist with the left hand, keeping the thumb pointing upward.
• Focus both eyes on the tip of the thumb.
• Bend the arm and slowly bring the thumb to the nose tip, keeping the eyes focused on the tip of the thumb.
• Remain for a few seconds with the thumb held at the nose tip and the eyes focused there.
• Slowly straighten the arm, continuing to gaze at the thumb tip.
• This is one round.
• Practice 10 rounds.
• Keep the head and spine straight throughout.
• Finally, close and rest the eyes.
• Palming may be performed several times.

Breathing:  Inhale as the thumb is drawn towards the nose.

Exhale as the arm is straightened.

Benefits:  This exercise improves the accommodating and focusing power of the eye muscles.