Closing your eyes for 20 minutes after a meal nourishes the liver and aids digestion
After a meal, the blood in the body concentrates in the digestive tract to participate in the digestive process. If you walk or exercise at this time, some blood will flow to your hands and feet, leading to insufficient blood supply to the liver, which affects its normal metabolism. Therefore, closing your eyes and sitting quietly for 10 to 30 minutes after a meal can allow more blood to flow to the liver, supplying oxygen and nutrients to liver cells. This is especially important for people with liver disease, who should especially practice "resting with eyes closed" after a meal.
Combining "resting with eyes closed" with other health methods like swallowing saliva, controlling breathing, and mindfulness can yield better results. After a meal, you can find a quiet place to sit, close your eyes gently with your eyelids lowered, and clear your mind. Place the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth and swallow saliva. Regulate your breathing, then perform deep, slow breaths, keeping the energy at your Dantian (lower abdomen). You can also use the tips of your index fingers to gently press on your eyelids and massage them slightly until your eyeballs feel warm and swollen, which can relieve depression and nourish the spirit.
Modern life is fast-paced, and many people suffer from irritability, anxiety, and even insomnia. In fact, "resting with eyes closed" is a good way to regulate oneself and is especially helpful for those with "yin deficiency and internal fire." You can find a spare moment anytime to rest with your eyes closed for about 10 minutes, which can help transform dryness into saliva and nourish the mind.