Working from home is honestly awesome. I’ve been doing it full-time for over two years now and I can’t imagine going back. The one thing that comes with working from home though? Staring at a screen all. day. long.
I remember when I got my first full-time job working from home, that first week was a bit tough on my eyes! I was starting at my computer or my phone for 8 hours a day (sometimes more) and I just needed a break.
This isn’t just something at-home workers experience though. Anyone that works in front of a screen probably could stand to give their eyes a break every now and then.
I want to share my 5 favorite ways to give your eyes a break, whether it’s during the workday or after you’ve signed off.
1. Read Hard Copy
I’m one of those readers who prefers a hard copy book over a digital copy every single time. My main reason is that I love the feeling of a book in my hands. I love turning the pages and the smell! Ugh, is there anything better than the smell of a book?
Aside from all of that, reading a hard copy book allows my eyes to take a rest from screens. It’s such a welcome change reading
2. Take Old Fashioned Notes
I may be a little old fashioned here, but I much prefer taking notes with a pad and pen over opening up a Word doc or Google doc. I really can’t explain why that is, it’s just something I’ve always done and continue to do.
I have a pad I use to take notes with clients. I have a journal I take notes in for my current WIP. I have another journal I use for all of my business ideas. I feel like this helps me hone in on what I’m working on and leaves me free from distractions.
3. Coloring
When it comes to the self-care portion of this, I’m telling you, it’s a fantastic stress reliever. You’re so engrossed in coloring that you kind of don’t have time to think about anything else! I highly recommend this as a way to unwind from a busy (or not so busy) day.
4. Listen To Music Or A Podcast
I don’t know about you, but I’m a notorious multi-tasker. I tend to put music on while I’m writing or listen to a podcast while I drive. Those are great things to do, don’t get me wrong, but I rarely ever used to just sit and listen.
Laying in my bed with music or a podcast has become one of my favorite things to do. I don’t even need to keep my eyes open. It’s a total way to relax your eyes!
Here are some of my favorite podcast to listen to right now (all totally entertainment related):
- Worst Ever Podcast with Christine Lakin and Alaa Khaled
- Whine Down with Jana Kramer
- Small Town Murder
Love podcasts, too? Share some of your favorites down below!
5. Go For A Walk Outside
Walking is one of my favorite ways to relax my mind. Plus, the only thing to look at is good old Mother Nature. No screens around! You could listen to music or podcasts while you do this, but you definitely don’t want to spend too much time fooling around with what you’re listening to. You want to engross yourself in nature.
Your eyes might feel a little shocked at the change in scenery. Looking at screens all day can have that effect! But once your eyes adjust, it becomes a great experience. I’m a very observant person, so when I walk I take in everything I see around me. It’s nice to see the world in 3-D!
These are just a handful of my favorite ways to give my eyes a break. If you have a go-to practice, please share it with me below!
