ARE YOU REALLY?

That depends on what you mean by resting. Going beyond that, is just “resting” the best thing you could be doing for your eyes? Resting is good but you could be doing so much more for them.

EYES UNDER STRAIN

Looking at screens – of any shape or size – would have to be one of the most tiring things for the eyes. By contrast, structuring in “eye breaks” – particularly at work – could be one of the most important things you do for your vision and concentration. You could use the clock in your computer or download a simple application like EYES-RELAX or EYELEO, to name but two.

EXERCISING THE EYES

Once you have the breaks in place, use them well.
To begin with: how about shifting your focal distance. This is an easy way to release and exercise the muscles of the eyes.
Take your eyes off the screen (standing up if possible) and cast them around seeking out some object (or thing) as far away from you as you can find. Have a good look at it, really pulling your vision of whatever it is into focus.
When you are satisfied that it can’t get any clearer, shift your vision to something about ½ way between you and your 1st object. Again, pull it into focus.
Then go back to your 1st object and have another clear, well focused look.
Once you’re on top of this, you can enjoy playing with this simple technique using a range of objects – of different sizes – at varying distances from you and from each other.

OR NOT – SOMETIMES REST IS BEST

On some breaks you may, of course, really just want to rest your eyes. In which case, maximize. Close the eyes, put your hands on the desk one on top of the other and put your forehead on your hands. Then breathe softly and deeply into the lower abdomen.

Never underestimate the power of the micro-break
Your vision – and energy – will only improve