Follow these tips to keep your eyes healthy at the office

Does your job demand that you stare at a computer screen for several hours at a stretch? If so, eyestrain may become a serious problem. A current story by the everon small-business blog says that workers connected to their computers can face a host of problems, from watery eyes to headaches, increased sensitivity to light and difficulty focusing. The good news? Avoiding eyestrain is in fact quite easy, even if you have to stare at the monitor for eight hours. The everon blog offered some simple techniques for reducing the unwanted effects of eyestrain.

The Secret

Workers seeking to avoid the problems of eye strain need to follow the 20/20/20 rule. This rule states that employees should every 20 minutes take a 20-second break. And during this short break, they should focus their eyes on an object that stands at least 20 feet away. This forces your eyes to focus on something besides a computer screen. In addition, it provides them with a brief workout. The story on everon also indicates that employees can every 20 minutes spend 20 seconds or more walking 20 feet or more, something which will also provide a boost to their mental and physical well-being.

Reminder Apps

Workrave received kudos from everon. This app will send a message onto employees’ computer screens letting them know when it’s time to take a short eye break. The program will also suggest specific exercises for workers. A more advanced app is EyeLeo. This app will blank employee computer screens when it’s time for their short breaks. Then an animated leopard will guide employees through quick eye exercises.

Coffee Break

Another favorite reminder app is Coffee Break, though it is only available for Apple devices. This app will slowly darken your screen as a pre-arranged break time nears. You’ll certainly be motivated to take that important break as your screen gets darker and darker. Obviously, no app can force you to take a health break. Nevertheless, do it for yourself. The task will still get done, and the health benefits from turning away from the screen are significant.