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THE 20-20-20 Rule

2 min read
THE 20-20-20 Rule

WHAT IS THE 20-20-20 rule?


If you find yourself gazing at screens all day, your eye doctor may have mentioned this rule to you. Basically, every 20 minutes spent using a screen; you should try to look away at something that is 20 feet away from you for a total of 20 seconds.

Looking at digital devices won’t necessarily damage your eyesight. But it can cause strain and unpleasant symptoms. Humans normally blink around 15 times each minute. When staring at screens, this number decreases to a half or third that often. That can lead to dry, irritated, and tired eyes.

Taking frequent breaks to look at faraway objects during screen time significantly lessened their eye strain symptoms. In other words, the 20-20-20 rule works.

HOW CAN YOU TELL IF SOMETHING IS 20 FEET AWAY?

Unless you have a tape measure you probably won’t be able to accurately measure 20 feet. Being exact isn’t the key. You should just try to focus on something far away from you. Consider looking out a window at an object that seems far away, like a tree or a building across the street. If you work in a small space, try walking outdoors or into a larger area where you can rest your eyes.

WHY 20 SECONDS?

It takes about 20 seconds for your eyes to completely relax.

While you’re resting your eyes, it’s also a good idea to get up and grab a drink of water to keep yourself hydrated. If your body is hydrated, your eyes will be as well.

Drinking green tea during your break may help even more. That’s because green tea contains antioxidants called catechins that may help your eyes produce tears for better lubrication.

Looking at screens too much can lead to eye strain. But the 20-20-20 rule will help.

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