How to relax tired eyes

After more than a year working from home, we're all feeling a bit tired when it comes to screens and our eyes. Unfortunately, our eyes weren't built to stare a screen less than two feet from our faces for several hours a day.  

Worry not! There are solutions to the constant squinting. Hopefully, we can provide some much-needed relief to some very tired eyes.  

How eyes become strained

Before we offer up some solutions, let's talk about how our eyes become tired in the first place. Our eyes require a series of factors to make them truly feel fatigued and modern life is perfectly designed to meet those requirements.  

As you probably already know, the blue light given off by digital devices like computer monitors, smartphones, and tablets is both harsh on our eyes and our sleep schedules. It's not the only factor when considering eye strain from digital devices, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, blinking frequency plays a much larger role in eye strain.  

Less blinking means drier eyes. Drier eyes mean strained eyes. Strained eyes mean...well you get the picture.   

Quick tips to relax your eyes 

Now, for the advice. Our lives today may be causing us unnecessary eye strain, but thankfully this modern problem doesn't require a modern solution. It's all fairly simple, really.  

At-home remedies

Like any other sore body part, a little warmth can go a long way when it comes to pain relief. Simply take a towel and soak it in warm water. Once it's warmed up, squeeze the remaining water out and place it gently over your eyes while laying down. Apply light pressure to your eyes with the compress and enjoy the soothing relief.   

You can also achieve a similar effect by facing the water in a warm shower (with your contacts out!) and letting the water wash over your closed eyes. You'd be surprised how effective this can be for eyes that just want to slam closed.   

Eye exercises

There are a myriad of ways to exercise your eyes. Everything from the double facepalm to loop-de-loops. We have a whole article detailing options for you to keep your eyes in tip-top shape and relax your eyes after a stressful day.

Lifestyle adjustments

Lastly, and probably the most difficult for many people, is adjusting parts of their lifestyle. Eye strain is an issue that can be avoided with simple preparation. Changing or removing the source of the irritation in the first place is always going to be most effective in dealing with a chronic issue like eye fatigue.  

Take inventory of the habits that might impact your eye health, specifically screen time. Is there somewhere in your day where you can reduce your screen time? Can you opt instead to be outside where you can frequently adjust your focus range? Do you need to be on your phone before bed?  

Reflecting on those questions and deciding to change is the first step to happier, healthier eyes.   

If you feel that your eye fatigue is chronic, or if it interrupts your daily activities, we'd always recommend chatting with your eye doctor. They will be able to give you specialized recommendations based on your specific set of circumstances.