Focusing on Performing Arts Visual Health in March

March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, a time when the American Academy of Ophthalmology emphasises the critical importance of eye protection in the workplace. While this initiative is crucial for those in industrial settings, it holds equal significance for performers and musicians around the globe, who rely heavily on their vision to read music scores, follow auto prompts, or glance up at monitor screens during performances.

Eye health is not just about avoiding injuries; it's fundamental to our overall well-being. Long periods of concentration can lead to eye strain, manifesting as tiredness, burning sensations, dry eyes, blurred vision, and/or headaches. These symptoms are not exclusive to an office environment or factory floors but also affect those who spend hours under stage lights or sightreading from paper notation or tablets.

Imagine if professional orchestras and media institutions adopted similar protective measures for their employees, drawing inspiration from Workplace Eye Wellness Month. By prioritising eye health and safety with certified and approved eye protection guidelines, these organisations could enhance both employee well-being and possibly performance.

To combat eye strain effectively:

- **Take breaks**: Incorporate regular breaks during rehearsals to stretch and rest your eyes.

- **Obey the 20-20-20 rule**: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (ca. 6 m) away for at least 20 seconds.

- **Practice good ergonomics**: Maintain an appropriate distance from your music stand or screen whenever possible.

- **Use artificial tears**: Eye drops can alleviate dryness during intense rehearsal periods.

- **Wear an up-to-date vision correction**: Ensure you have the correct spectacles tailored for specific tasks—whether it’s sight-reading or viewing monitors.

Eye disorders such as presbyopia, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration can severely impact a performing artist's career by affecting their ability to see clearly under different conditions. Regular eye exams are essential in catching these issues early.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle plays a significant role in preserving both general and ocular health—eat well, exercise regularly—and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption due to their detrimental effects on eye health.

By taking proactive steps towards visual wellness this March—and beyond—you’re investing in not just your career longevity, but also in enhancing your quality of life both onstage and off. Let’s make Workplace Eye Wellness Month more than just an observance; let’s transform it into a movement that ensures every musician sees their world—and their audience—clearly!