SHAWCing Tip #2: Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You
Human beings were born with hunter eyes. Our eyes evolved to catch game out in the wild, spotting potential prey and dangers at long distances with natural light to guide us. Nowadays, most of our hunting occurs on a computer screen, Facebook stalking friends and cranking out numerous papers; this mixture of close-ranged focus and artificial lighting strains and tires eyes. Looks can kill.
To combat this, researchers recommend placing visual rest-spots around your work area. These can include photos, artwork, plants — whatever puts your eyes at ease. By alternating your focus between your laptop screen and these rest-spots, you allow your eyes to take a break from the artificial lighting and colors.
What if your eyes are already strained? Researchers suggest vigorously rubbing the palms of your hands together and then placing the bottom of your palms over each eye. The heat from your palms relaxes your eye muscles and encourages blood flow to the area.
Finally, true eye warriors will follow the 20-20-20 rule. Developed and recommended by the American Academy of Opthamology, the rule dictates we take a visual vacation from our computer screens every 20 minutes to look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
We’re just looking out for you.
The ASUCD Student Health and Wellness Committee (SHAWC) aims to promote and address important health-related issues on campus. We serve as the liaison between ASUCD and campus health organizations, clubs, and resources. If you have SHAWCing suggestions, questions, or tips, please e-mail us at shawcucd@gmail.com and/or “Like” our Facebook page.
