Four Simple Ways to Relax Your Eyes Every Few Hours

If you’re like most of us, your day probably involves hours in front of a screen—whether it’s for work, reading, or catching up on the latest series. While our digital devices are indispensable, they can take a toll on our eyes. Fatigue, dryness, blurred vision, or even headaches can creep in without us noticing.

At Curago, we believe wellbeing at work isn’t just about good coffee and comfortable chairs—it’s about taking care of every part of yourself, including your eyes. The good news is, a few simple habits can go a long way in keeping them fresh and focused throughout the day. Here are four practical ways you can relax your eyes every few hours, whether you’re in our coworking space or working from home.

The 20-20-20 Rule

One of the best techniques to ease eye strain is the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes of screen time, take a break and look at something that is at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

This simple but powerful technique helps reset your eye muscles. A study showed that over 50% of people working on screens for extended periods reported symptoms of digital eye strain, making this rule especially vital. By focusing on a distant object, you provide your eyes with a chance to relax and recover from the strain of close-up work.

Blink More Often

Did you know we blink less when staring at screens? This can lead to dry and uncomfortable eyes. Blinking is essential because it keeps your eyes moist and prevents irritation.

Make it a habit to blink more often. You could even set a timer to remind you every 15 minutes to take a moment, close your eyes, and blink. Research indicates that simply remembering to blink can reduce symptoms of dry eyes by up to 80% in some individuals, highlighting how this small change can greatly enhance your comfort.

Eye Exercises

Integrating simple eye exercises into your routine can also provide relief. A popular exercise is the "figure eight" technique.

To do this, visualize a large figure eight on its side about 10 feet away. Slowly trace the shape with your eyes, first moving in one direction for a few minutes and then reversing. This practice not only strengthens eye muscles but also increases flexibility. Engaging in these exercises for just five minutes every hour can significantly decrease feelings of fatigue and strain.

Use Proper Lighting

The lighting in your workspace can greatly influence your eye comfort. Ensure that the area is bright enough to work efficiently, but avoid strong overhead lights that may produce glare on your screen.

Instead, opt for softer, indirect lighting that is less taxing on your eyes. It’s also worth considering blue light filters or screen overlays for your devices. A recent study found that using such filters can reduce eye strain by up to 30%, making it easier on your eyes, especially in the evening when screens are often used more.

Prioritize Your Eye Health

Taking regular breaks to relax your eyes is essential in our digital era. By practicing the 20-20-20 rule, blinking more frequently, doing eye exercises, and ensuring proper lighting, you can significantly alleviate eye strain.

Your eyes are crucial for navigating the world, and they deserve proper care. Incorporate these strategies into your daily routine, and you will likely see a noticeable improvement in your eye comfort and health. Prioritize your eye care today to enjoy a more comfortable viewing experience tomorrow.