Since the Covid-19 lockdown, our days are no longer separated by commutes home, outdoor lunch breaks or real-life interactions with colleagues and friends after work. We tend to go from screen to screen for all aspects of life: work, socialising, entertainment, and even physical exercise.

Our eyes are becoming increasingly strained, facing screens at a short distance and at the same angle, as we rely on them to become top performers in this new way of life.

We naturally blink 15 to 20 times a minute, which is drastically decreased to only 5 times a minute when facing a screen. This causes dry eye syndrome and possibly a whole new set of challenges including burning eyes, blurred vision and headaches.

Here are a few simple tips to relieve your eyes from strain:

1. LOOK UP! Try the 20-20-20 rule: LOOK UP after every 20 minutes of screen time and gaze at an object at least 20 feet (6m) away from you for 20 seconds.
2. Even better: GET UP, get out and breathe in some fresh air while taking a break! Remember sunshine can also do wonders.
3. Try to blink more often – it will ensure your eyes stay hydrated.
4. Yawn now and then to relax your facial muscles
5. Beware of the notorious ‘text neck’. This can be avoided by holding your device out in front of you rather than looking down at it.
6. Reduce the glare and adjust your screen settings to dark mode.
7. Enhance your eye health by optimising indoor climate and lighting conditions.
8. Stock up on eye food: Vitamin A (carrots, spinach, mangos), Vitamin C (citrus fruits) and don’t forget, 2l of water or herbal tea per day.

Most importantly, give your eyes a break and schedule some digital-free downtime!

Your eyes and mind will thank you.

Stay safe

Your coach & thinking partner,

Ulrike