In this digital age, our lives revolve around displays. Be it a computer, laptop, tv, or smartphone. While technology has undoubtedly improved our lives in several ways, prolonged screen exposure can lead to digital eye strain. Not just creates a sense of discomfort but can also lead to potential long-term side effects. Fortunately, there is a method called 20-20-20 that is very helpful in preventing any digital eye strain, allowing you to enjoy your entertainment and work without any worry.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, refers to a set of eye problems caused by prolonged exposure to digital displays. Since people of all ages are so much dependent on screens be it for work purposes, entertainment, or information, it affects everyone.
The Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain are Eye Redness, Dryness, Headache, Eye Fatigue, etc.
Understanding 20-20-20 Method
The 20-20-20 method is a simple technique designed to reduce the eye strain caused by screen time. The rule says that every 20 minutes we spend looking at the screen, we should take a 20-second of break and focus on an object situated 20 feet away.
So this could be rewritten as
20 minutes of screen time – 20 seconds of break – 20 feet of away object
This simple technique gives your eyes an opportunity to relax and adjust, which eventually reduces the strain.
Benefits of the 20-20-20 Method
Increases Blink Rate: Blink renews our tear film and nourishes our eyes with oxygen and nutrients. But with prolonged screen exposure, our eye blink rate gets significantly down. Thus by practicing the 20-20-20 method, our blink rate gets normalized.
Relieves from Eye Strain: By practicing timely breaks and shifting the focus away from the screen helps the eyes to refresh. And avoid any discomfort that would likely happen.
Promotes Eye Blood Circulation: Screen exposure for a longer time reduces blood circulation in the eyes. But this method can not only simulate blood flow but also improve overall eye health.
Improves Productivity: At first glance, many would think that productivity gets reduced if we take more often breaks. But the results are completely opposite. The more you take a break, the better would be your productivity and performance.
How to Implement the 20-20-20 Rule in Your Daily Routine?
Implementing the 20-20-20 rule in our daily routines is very easy and highly effective. Although in the initial days, you might miss out to follow the rule very often.
But to overcome the problem of mission you can simply follow this pattern
- Set a 20 Minute timer: Setting a timer will help you to remember your threshold of 20 minutes. Otherwise, you would likely forget it.
- Choose any object kept at a distance of approx 20 feet: This could be anything like a wall photo frame, bag, etc.
- Purposely remember to Blink: Blink is a good practice and very necessary for the eyes to function properly. So remember to bring it as soon as you can.
Once you keep following the steps for a while, you will develop a habit without even memorizing the steps.
Conclusion
In Today’s tech-driven world, the 20-20-20 method is a simple and straightforward technique to prevent your eyes from any kind of Digital eye strain. Incorporating this simple technique in your daily life will not only be helpful for eyes from getting damaged but will promote healthy vision and well-being.
Hope you enjoyed this helpful article. Don’t forget to check out more such wellness topics in Wellness at ConceptDive.
