How Does Taking Breaks Every 20 Minutes Help Avoid Eye Strain?
If you’re staring at screens for long periods, try the 20–20–20 rule. For every 20 minutes you spend looking at a screen, take a 20-second break to focus on something 20 feet away. This helps your eyes reset and rest.
These days, spending a lot of time looking at screens is a common concern. Whether it’s your computer during work or at home, your smartphone, TV, or other digital gadgets, many hours can add up. All this screen time can strain your eyes.
Read on to find out about an eye exercise, how to do it, and if studies show it actually helps.
What is the 20–20–20 rule for eye care?
If you don’t have a tape measure, it’s hard to get a precise measurement of 20 feet, but that’s okay for understanding the 20–20–20 rule for preventing eyestrain.
Instead of worrying about exact distances, simply take breaks to look at something far away. For example, gaze out of a window at a distant tree or a building across the street.
If you’re working in a cramped area, step outside or find a bigger space where you can give your eyes a break.
Why is 20 seconds important?
It takes around 20 seconds for your eyes to fully relax.
