How to do it
You need: A mirror.
Sit comfortably in front of a mirror in good light, close enough to see both sides of your face clearly, and let your face rest in a neutral position before you start.
- Look straight ahead and open both eyes wide, as if something has surprised you.
- Keep your eyebrows still so the work comes from your eyelids, not your forehead.
- Use the mirror to keep both eyes opening to a similar width.
- Hold for a few seconds, then let your eyes return to their resting position.
Form cues
- keep the two sides even; move the weaker side only as far as it can match the stronger side; never force
- Both upper eyelids lift by a similar amount.
- Your forehead stays relatively still.
Common mistakes
- Raising your eyebrows to fake a wider eye opening.
- Tipping your head forwards or back.
- Straining the weaker eye to match - let it move only as far as it comfortably can.
Safety: Stop and message your physio if you develop new facial twitching or tightness, or movements start happening in more than one area at once (for example your eye closing when you smile).