You may not realise it but your screen may be too dark, causing your eye muscles to have to work harder, or too bright and glaring, thus straining your eyes. And you’ve become so accustomed to it that you aren’t aware until somebody points it out. Make sure that the screen display brightness is about the same as your surroundings, and ensure that the text is a comfortable size so you’re not squinting. 

Align your monitor or screen correctly and at the correct distance so you don’t have to strain your eyes as you work. The screen should be 50 to 60 cm away from your eyes, so lean back if you find yourself inching towards the screen.

Look straight ahead – are you looking slightly downwards or upwards at the screen? Your eyes should always be level with the top of the monitor. If you have a tablet, use a stand if possible.

Everyone knows the importance of vision breaks, but what exactly do you do during these breaks? Here’s one way to ensure that your “vision break” isn’t wasted: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (or 6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds. These short muscle breaks can stave off eye strain in the long run. 

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Research says that people working on computers blink a third less than normal. Blinking is essential as it keeps your eyes moist and prevents them from getting dry and irritated. This is especially important if you work in an air-conditioned office where the air is always dry. 

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Rub your hands together for warmth, then press them gently over closed eyelids for a bit of instant relief. Take advantage of tech like Novita’s The M Series Eye & Temple Massager EM 8, a handy device designed to refresh and revive tired eyes on-the-go. It combines air pressure technology, strategically positioned airbags for blood circulation around the eyes and temple area, and an innovative infrared heat therapy to give you that warm, soothing sensation. 

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Exposing your eyes to blue light radiation emitted from your screens and even light sources can be damaging to your retina. Visit your optician and ask for computer lenses or blue light lenses that you can put on each time you’re doing work in front of a screen.

Try the W EYExperience at W Optics, a comprehensive 30-minute eye examination that thoroughly assess your eyes and detect problems more accurately. 

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Text: Bauer / Additional Reporting: Elizabeth Liew
Photo: Unsplash