The main cause of bloggers’ eyestrain seems to be the result of constant close-focusing. When the eyes are looking at a distant object the muscles are relaxed and loose. When focused on something near they are contracted and tense. Over time, too much close work causes eye problems.

One of the simplest ways to counteract this tendency is by “palming visualization”, which I’ve adapted from an exercise in the Bates “Good Sight Without Glasses” programme.

Palming is quite simple : when your eyes are strained, or preferably before, place the palms of your hands over your eyes so as to block out all light. Keep them there for a couple of minutes or so and you’ll find your eyes are quite refreshed.

Now, if you also visualize an object in the far distance, say, a tree, or a ship on the horizon, this will cause your eyes to focus into the distance thus unlocking the clenched effect of close viewing. This double exercise, repeated at 15 or 30-minute intervals depending on the severity of the problem, is very beneficial for eyestrain.

Some other thoughts : Deborah has left an excellent comment on the previous post. Her thoughts on glare are well worth considering.

Finally, it’s often said that dark green, leafy vegetables contain a substance, lutein, which prevents macular degeneration, particularly in older eyes. This is a common problem, apparently. So start digging up those cabbages.

More tips on eyestrain in Part 3.