Ever feel like your eyes are just… done? Like they've stared at a screen for a million years and are now just dry balls? Yeah, me too. I mean, think about it. Between work, scrolling through social media, and binge-watching that new show everyone's talking about, we're basically glued to our devices. And all that screen time? It's taking a toll on our eyes. If you are reading this blog, you propably are like me and would rather keep your eye health in tip-top condition.
I used to think, "Oh, it's just a little eye strain." But then the headaches started creeping in, as well as the feeling of tiredness from 'just' staring at a screen at work. Come night, I was tossing and turning and finding it hard to turn the brain off. It turns out that all that blue light from our phones and laptops isn't just annoying; it's messing with our inner health while making sleep harder.
So, I decided to try blue light glasses. And honestly? Game changer. I started at first by just using them at work in front of the duel screens, but now that I've come to realise the importance of blocking blue night night before hitting the sack, I've started wearing yellow lense blocking glasses at night, too.
What's the Deal with Blue Light Anyway?
Okay, let's get a little science-y, but I promise I'll keep it simple. Blue light is part of the light spectrum, like the colour you see in a rainbow. But the blue light from our devices? It's intense. It's like, imagine staring at the sun all day, but instead of the sun, it's your phone or the wrap around computer screen that are becoming all the rave these days. Not great, right?
We get it from:
- Our trusty smartphones (never leave home without 'em!)
- Tablets (perfect for those cozy reading sessions...or endless scrolling)
- Computers (hello, work life!)
- Those super-bright LED lights (energy-efficient, but eye-straining)
And here's the kicker: it's not just about tired eyes. This blue light can seriously mess with your sleep in multiple ways. It throws off your melatonin, which is your body's natural sleep aid. Imagine trying to sleep when your brain thinks it's midday. No wonder we're all so tired! Just looking at your screen for as little as 8 seconds before closing your eyes to sleep can confuse your body into thinking it's not night anymore! We are messing with 1000's of years of evolution here.
Why Blue Light Glasses Became My New Best Friend
Okay, so I got my first pair. And the difference? It was like going from watching a blurry movie to seeing everything in high definition.
- No More Eye Strain: My eyes finally felt relaxed, even after hours of work. For productivity, this was huge for me. As someone who works long hours for myself, being able to increase my productivity has paid me back more than 10 fold easily.
- Better Sleep: I actually fell asleep faster and woke up feeling more rested. It wasn't an overnight success but with time and making the wearing of anti-blue light glasses a habit, sleep has become easier. Before wearing the glasses, 30-45min to get to sleep was the timeframe I accepted as normal.
- Fewer Headaches: Those annoying tension headaches? They started to disappear. I used to go home feeling like my head was 'buzzing' like my frontal cortex was literary fried!
It's like, who knew something as simple as glasses could make such a difference? It's something I wish I had known years ago, but when you are younger, you feel invincible and the 'it will never happen to me' mentality, right!?
How to Pick the Right Pair (Because Not All Glasses Are Created Equal)
When you're shopping for blue light glasses, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Lens Quality: You want lenses that actually block blue light, not just claim to. Look for reviews and certifications. Grounded Kiwi has handpicked the best of the best in both lens quality, blue light blocking ability as well as the best quailty in frames. Check these out and rest assured you are buying the best for your eyes.
- Comfort is Key: If they're not comfy, you won't wear them. Try them on, see how they feel. Super comfortable blue light glasses here at Grounded Kiwi that you will happily be able to wear all day and night long.
- Style Matters: Let's be real, you want to look good. Find a pair that fits your style. We handpicked a collection of blue light glasses that we think all New Zealanders will love.
I am sure you will be super happy with them. Click here to check out the range
Making Blue Light Glasses Part of Your Routine
Here's how I made it work for me:
- During Work Hours: They're on as soon as I sit down at my computer. Make it a habit, and then within a month, you simply won't be able to go without as you will instantly won't be able to look at a screen as the difference will be so noticeable.
- Evening Time: About two hours before bed, I put them on. Sleep is the most important part of the day! Treat it that way and start your wind-down sleep routine the right way by blocking the unnatural blue-light from reaching your eyes.
- Gaming Sessions: Because, let's face it, those can go on for hours. Even though its just going to be another '20 mins' chuck on your glasses at the start. Get your teenagers to start this habit now and it will carry them in good stead throughout their young adult lives and onwards.
And I've also made a few other changes:
- Taking Breaks: Get up and move! Go outside and focus your eyes on moving objects (like birds or clouds) at different distances. This is kind of like stretching your legs, except for your eyeballs!
- Adjusting Screen Brightness: No more blinding myself with a super-bright screen. You can even put your phone into 'Grey mode', which has been shown to cut down phone use significantly once the bright, attractive colours are gone.
- Staying Hydrated: Because dry eyes are the worst. Water is life! Drinking quality water and sleeping should be at the top of the list for leading a healthy life.
The Bottom Line
Look, we're all living in a digital world of convenience. And that's not changing for the better anytime soon. But we can make it a little easier on our eyes and health. Blue light glasses? They're not just a trend; they're a necessity.
If you're tired of tired eyes, give them a try. Trust me, your eyes (and your sleep) will thank you.
Browse the Grounded Kiwi range of blue light-blocking glasses here:
Quick Q&A
- What are they? Special glasses that filter blue light.
- How do they work? They block or absorb the blue light.
- Who needs them? Anyone who uses screens!
- Do they help with sleep? Yes! They can improve your sleep.
- Should I still get eye exams? Absolutely! They're not a replacement for regular check-ups.
