Is it permissible to fend off intrusive thoughts by closing one's eyes, and is that considered an innovation (bid'ah)?

"Whispers (waswas) are repelled by any permissible means that aid in doing so, such as closing the eyes if that helps to ward them off. The fundamental approach to repelling them is to seek refuge in Allah and to rely upon Him, as the Almighty said: 'And my success is not but through Allah. Upon Him I have relied, and to Him I return.' And in the Hadith (definition): 'Be keen on what benefits you, and seek help from Allah and do not be helpless.' When the whispering reaches a certain level, one should seek refuge in Allah and stop it – meaning stop indulging in it – by occupying oneself with something else. Frequent supplication (du'a) and remembrance (dhikr) help to overcome them, for 'Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find tranquility.'"