Blinking

eyes · body science · automatic · super useful

Quick eye shut. Blinking happens so fast you barely notice it, but it's your eyes closing and opening on purpose. Your brain controls it even when you're not thinking about it.

Spreads protective tears. Every time you blink, it washes your eyes with tears that keep them wet and healthy. Tears also protect your eyes from dust and germs.

Removes irritants. If something gets in your eye like sand or an eyelash, blinking helps push it out. Your eyelids work like tiny windshield wipers for your eyes.

Happens automatically. You don't have to remind yourself to blink, your body just does it all day long. But you can also blink on purpose whenever you want.