Staring at a laptop, TV, or phone screen for hours can take a toll on your vision. Eye rubbing, squinting, headaches, blurred or double vision, and itchy and watery eyes are among the most common symptoms of eye strain. Luckily, there are a few tricks eye doctors recommend you use daily to combat the negative effects of blue light. Whether you use screens for work or leisure, here are a few exercises to try when your eyes start feeling tired.

3 Eye Exercises That Relieve Strain

1. Eye Rolls

For this exercise, look straight ahead with your shoulders relaxed, then roll your eyes to your right. Roll them upward next, then to the left. Finish by looking at the ground, then repeat the steps in the opposite direction. Make sure not to move your head as you do this, since only your eyes should be working. Do this 10 times a day to strengthen your eye muscles, which will reduce discomfort.    

2. Distance Gazing

Focus your eyes on a distant object like a tree out a window or a piece of furniture that’s at least 20 feet away. Maintain relaxed facial muscles and breathe deeply as you let your eyes wander to another faraway object. Spend at least two seconds on each item before moving on. After 20 seconds, finish the exercise by blinking slowly 20 times. Looking at distant objects for a while will prepare you to face a nearby screen again.

3. Wall “Messages”

You can also reduce strain and build eye muscles by using them as imaginary lasers. “Write” messages on a nearby wall with your vision. Trace each letter of a word or phrase as quickly as you can to stimulate the muscles. Do this exercise in 20-second intervals for up to two minutes a day. 

Keep your eyesight healthy by working with the eye doctors at Middletown Tri-State Eye. Featuring convenient locations in Middletown, NY, and Milford, PA, these eye doctors provide treatment in the Tri-State Area for a range of conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Visit their website for more information about their services or call (845) 703-2020 to schedule your appointment with an eye doctor.