Rubbing your eyes can feel soothing and provide temporary relief from various eye-related discomforts, such as dryness, irritation, or fatigue. However, it is important to note that rubbing your eyes too hard or too frequently can actually cause more harm than good.

One reason why rubbing your eyes may feel good is that it stimulates the production of tears. Tears are essential for maintaining the health and comfort of the eyes and are produced in response to various stimuli, including dryness, irritation, or emotional arousal. When you rub your eyes, you are effectively stimulating the tear glands and increasing tear production, which can help to moisturize and lubricate the eyes.

Rubbing your eyes can also stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals in the brain that act as painkillers and mood elevators. Endorphins are often released in response to physical touch or massage, and they can provide a feeling of pleasure and relaxation.

In addition, rubbing your eyes can stimulate the trigeminal nerve, which is a nerve that runs from the brainstem to the face and is involved in the sense of touch, temperature, and pain. Stimulating the trigeminal nerve can cause a reflexive blinking response, which can help to clear debris or irritants from the eyes and provide temporary relief from discomfort.

However, it is important to be gentle when rubbing your eyes, as too much pressure or friction can damage the delicate skin and tissues around the eyes. Rubbing your eyes too hard or too frequently can also lead to the spread of bacteria and infections, as well as the development of wrinkles or dark circles.

Overall, while rubbing your eyes can provide temporary relief from certain eye-related discomforts, it is important to do so gently and not to rely on it as a long-term solution. If you are experiencing persistent eye-related symptoms or discomfort, it is important to consult with an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.