260 
SCOUTING FOR GIRLS 
especially in cities, makes a constant demand on our eyes, 
and more than this, the demand is on one part of the 
eyes' — the muscles concerned in near work. The best 
way to rest the eyes, and one which not only rests the 
tired parts but exercises the parts that are not used, is 
by doing things that will involve distant vision . Walking 
and looking far ahead and far away on every side rests 
the eyes best of all, and this is one reason why a good 
walk will often clear up a headache. Another way to in- 
sure distant vision is by riding backward in a car. Then 
as the landscape flows past you, your eye muscles relax 
to the position needed for distant vision. If you cannot 
walk or ride and are doing close work, like sewing or 
reading, look up and “at nothing” every once in a while. 
The following are some important rules to remember 
in saving your eyes : 
Rest your “near” eye muscles by looking at distant 
objects and places. 
Do not work facing a light or where the rays from a 
light cross your field of vision directly. 
Work so far as possible by indirect or reflected light. 
If you must work near uncovered artificial lights, wear 
an eye-shade. 
When sewing or writing have the light at your left, 
unless you are left-handed. This is to keep the shadow 
of your hands from the work. 
Avoid a glare or light that is in streaks or bars of 
alternate dark and bright. Diffused, even light is best. 
Have your eyes examined by a competent oculist im- 
mediately : 
If you have headaches, 
If the eyes sting or burn after using, 
If print or other objects dance or blur. 
If you must get close to your work to see it, 
If near work tires your eyes or you, 
