Protect Your Eyes
Pankaj Singh
| 19-11-2024
· News team
Our digital world has brought convenience but also a surge in myopia cases, especially among younger generations. The prolonged use of digital devices strains the eyes, causing discomfort and potentially leading to long-term vision issues.
Protecting your eyesight in this era of screens is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here's a detailed guide to prevent myopia and keep your eyes in top shape.

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

What is it?
For every 20 minutes of screen time, focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Why it works: This simple yet effective strategy reduces eye strain by giving your eyes periodic breaks from close-up work.
How to implement: Set reminders on your phone or computer to help you incorporate this habit into your routine.

Useful Tips on How to Protect Your Eyes from Mobile Screen | Dr. Hansaji Yogendra

Video by The Yoga Institute

2. Limit Screen Time

Why it matters: Long hours of screen exposure increase the risk of developing myopia, especially in children.
Actionable tip: Create a schedule that limits unnecessary screen time, particularly for entertainment purposes, and encourages engaging in offline activities.
For kids: Ensure they have more outdoor playtime, which has been shown to reduce the risk of myopia.

3. Spend Time Outdoors

Why outdoor light helps: Research shows that exposure to natural daylight reduces the progression of myopia, particularly in children and teenagers.
Recommended practice: Aim for at least 1-2 hours outdoors daily, whether it's a walk, gardening, or sports.

4. Optimize Your Screen Settings

Brightness and contrast: Match your screen's brightness to the ambient lighting in the room to reduce glare and strain.
Blue light filter: Activate built-in blue light filters on devices or wear glasses with blue light-blocking lenses
Font size: Increase text size on your devices to make reading more comfortable and reduce squinting.

5. Maintain Proper Distance and Posture

Ideal screen placement: Keep the screen at least an arm's length (about 16-20 inches) away from your eyes. Position it slightly below eye level to prevent neck strain.
Why posture matters: Slouching or hunching over your device can lead to additional strain on your eyes and body. Sit upright and ensure proper ergonomic support.

6. Regular Eye Exams Are Key

Why schedule eye exams: Early detection of vision problems can prevent complications like severe myopia or even blindness.
Frequency of exams: Adults should get an eye check-up every 2-3 years. Children, especially those heavily using screens, may need more frequent assessments.
During the exam: Discuss any symptoms like dry eyes, headaches, or blurred vision with your optometrist.

7. Healthy Diet for Healthy Vision

Essential nutrients: Include foods rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc.
Examples: Carrots, spinach, fish, and citrus fruits are great for eye health.
As screens become integral to our lives, adopting strategies to prevent myopia is more important than ever. Dear Lykkers, by practicing the 20-20-20 rule, managing screen time, and incorporating healthy habits like outdoor activities and regular eye exams, you can protect your eyes for years to come.
Prioritize your vision today and ensure a brighter, clearer future!