We have technology all around us and while it’s helpful in so many ways, it can also cause many health challenges including strain on our eyes. For those of us who use technology daily, eyestrain can be a serious buzzkill.
So, how can we protect our peepers and keep them sharp for our next adventure? Here are some effective strategies to combat eye strain and keep your vision clear, whether you’re scrolling through your phone or scouting through binoculars.
Adjust Your Digital Habitat
A major factor contributing to eyestrain is prolonged exposure to screens. Whether it’s a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer, the digital glow is omnipresent. However, tweaking your digital environment can lead to significant relief. Start with the brightness of your device; it should not be so bright that it feels like a light source on its own.
Matching the screen’s brightness to the surrounding room can prevent your eyes from working overtime. Next, consider the text size. Increasing the font size can help you read more comfortably without squinting. Also, if your days are dominated by screen time, take a 20 second break every 20 minutes to look at something far away. This simple practice helps to reset your focus and reduces fatigue.
How to Choose Sunglasses for Outdoors
When stepping outside, whether for a leisurely hike or a brisk walk around the city, protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays is crucial. When you’re wondering how to choose sunglasses for outdoors, the key is to look for sunglass options that block out at least 99% of both UVA and UVB radiation. This protection helps prevent long-term sun damage to your eyes.
Also, lenses that are polarized reduce glare, which is especially helpful when you’re around water or snow. Wrap-around sunglasses can also be beneficial as they block the sun’s rays from entering sideways. The tint of the lenses should be considered based on the environment. For example, gray tints are great for bright sunlight days, providing true color perception and reducing light intensity without really altering the color of objects, providing a natural view.
Update Your Glasses Prescription
For those who wear prescription glasses, updating your glasses can be a game-changer for reducing eye strain. Consider Oakley RX eyeglass frames, which combine style with functionality. Oakley’s frames are designed to fit perfectly, ensuring that the lenses are positioned optimally for your vision needs. This correct alignment helps in reducing the strain caused by incorrectly positioned lenses that can force the eyes to focus harder.
Furthermore, the frames come with options for lenses that can filter out blue light from digital screens, further protecting the eyes. Investing in a good pair of prescription glasses, such as those from Oakley, not only updates your style but also contributes to better eye health. Whether you’re reading at a cafe or preparing for a powerpoint presentation, your eyes will thank you for the enhanced clarity and reduced strain.
Embrace the Power of Proper Lighting
Lighting plays a pivotal role in how our eyes handle daily tasks, from reading to cooking. Poor lighting conditions can lead to increased eye fatigue as your eyes have to work harder to focus. To reduce eyestrain, ensure that your primary activities are well-lit. For indoor settings, use ambient lighting that evenly illuminates your space without causing glare on screens.
Desk lamps with adjustable settings can also help by directing light exactly where you need it—ideal for reading or detailed craftwork. When choosing bulbs, opt for ones that mimic natural light, which is easier on the eyes compared to the harsh yellow or blue tint of standard bulbs.
Maintain a Humid Environment
Dry air can contribute significantly to eye discomfort and irritation, especially in indoor environments where heating or air conditioning units are frequently used. To help, use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels that can help prevent your eyes from becoming dry and irritated.
You’ll also want to stay better hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to support natural eye moisture. For those who experience dry eyes, over-the-counter artificial tears can provide immediate relief. This simple adjustment in your environment and daily habits can have a profound impact on maintaining the health of your eyes.
Practice Regular Eye Exercises
Just like any other part of the body, your eyes benefit greatly from regular exercise. Eye exercises are powerful and can help strengthen your eye muscles, improve focus, and ease eye movements, which can reduce fatigue.
Simple exercises include blinking slowly for a few minutes to help refresh the eyes, or practicing focusing on a distant object for 10-30 seconds then shifting your gaze to a closer object. These exercises can be particularly beneficial for those who spend long hours in front of screens or need to quickly shift their focus between distances, such as in sports or photography.
