If you stare at your computer all day every day as part of your job – as many of us do – then the chances are high that you suffer frequently from eyestrain. Eyestrain isn’t a lasting condition. Nonetheless it can cause occasional headaches, water eyes, dry eyes, a heightened sensitivity to light and an inability to focus. In other words, it’s not very pleasant. Fortunately, the everon small-business blog recently took a look at eyestrain. What did it find? It’s relatively easy for workers to avoid this condition.
The Secret
What’s the secret to avoiding eyestrain? Employees merely have to follow the 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes, employees need to turn away from their computer screens for 20 seconds. They should take a look at an object or image that stands at least 20 feet away. This surprisingly simple exercise can help keep eyestrain at bay. And it can make employees more efficient. And, best of all, everon found several worthy apps that can remind employees of when it’s time to take an eye break.
Reminder Apps
Workrave received high marks from everon. This app will send a message onto employees’ computer screens telling them 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.
The Coffee Break App
Another favorite reminder app is Coffee Break, although it is only available for Apple devices. This app will slowly darken your screen as a pre-arranged break time nears. You will 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 your own benefit. The task will still get done, and the health benefits to turning away from the screen are substantial.