How to Rest Tired Eyes

Tired eyes are often the result of eye strain and stress. Eye strain occurs when you read or look at a computer screen for prolonged periods of time, often in dim conditions. Even if you are not sleepy, you may feel unable to concentrate on your work when you experience eye strain, affecting your productivity. Take time to rest your eyes and give yourself relief from the discomfort of tired eyes.

Things You'll Need

• Cold compress

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Instructions

• 1

  Take frequent breaks. If you experience eye strain while looking at a television or computer screen, focus your eyes on something other than the screens. MayoClinic.com suggests removing your eyes from the screen every 20 minutes while looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. You can stand up or do other work during this time or close your eyes for a few moments to restore moisture in the eyes. Blinking more often than usual also will provide relief to tired eyes because it produces lubrication that reduces eye strain and irritation.

• 2

  Massage your eyelids and the areas around your eyes gently once or twice a day. You can use your bare hands or a warm towel. Massage the upper eyelids, lower eyelids and the muscles of your eyebrows for a few minutes each day. This will soothe strained eye muscles and enhance the production of tear glands, reducing dryness and irritation.

• 3

  Apply a cold compress to your eyes. Cool temperatures reduce swelling in the eyes and provide relief from eye strain. Place a cold compress, chilled spoons or sliced cucumber over your eyes. Be careful not to place frozen items or ice directly onto your skin, as this may result in damage to the skin or numbness.