Green Space: the effect on your eyes

Have you noticed how your eyes feel after a long day in front of a screen? They often feel dry, irritated, or tired. We blame the screen or the air conditioning.

But is the actual issue that we have moved us away from nature?

Green spaces, parks, gardens or forests offer more than just beauty. They can help with something as unexpected as dry eyes.

When you spend time outdoors, your eyes get a break. You blink more often compared to when you stare at a screen.

Blinking spreads tears evenly across your eyes, preventing dryness. Indoor environments, especially with air conditioning, are dry. Outdoor green spaces have better humidity and natural airflow.

Moisture from the air supports the tear film that protects your eyes.

Spending time in nature reduces stress. Stress triggers inflammation in the body, and the eyes are no exception.

Inflammation affects the glands that produce tears, making dry eye symptoms worse. A quiet walk in a park lowers cortisol levels, reduces inflammation, and allows your body, including your eyes, to heal.

Sunlight plays its role too. Natural light stimulates dopamine release in the eyes, which helps them grow and maintain their shape.

It improves blood flow to the eye’s surface. You don’t get that benefit under fluorescent or LED lighting.

So what can you do?

Take breaks during the day. Step out into your balcony or garden. Let your eyes focus on something distant and green.

If you live in a city, visit a park in the evenings. Even a few minutes outdoors can rehydrate your eyes and calm your mind. If you can move back to the country side.

The solution to dry eyes is not always an eye drop. Sometimes, it is as simple as letting nature do its work.

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