iProperRest

iProperRest is an application that reminds you when you need to rest. As you may know, working on the computer might not sound like it could be bad for your health, but it can really take its toll if you don't take frequent breaks.

iProperRest is sure to provide you with some rest. All you have to do is to tell it when you're going to relax. In the Preferences window, you can set the amount of time you want to work before each break takes place. This is done with two sliding bars. You set the work time anywhere from 1 minute to 120 minutes. Then, you can also set the time for that you're planning to rest. This can range from 1 minute to 10 minutes.

When a break is due, the screen will be locked and you will see a black background with a countdown timer. This is your break, and you can do whatever you want during it. It is advised to get up and walk a bit, stretch your muscles and relax your eyesight. You won't be able to quit this screen, unless you resort to force quitting the application. Expose didn't work, and the escape key didn't do anything.

In my testing, I found the app works as advertised. The breaks are well timed and they serve their purpose. I would like this app to display something more useful than a black screen when a break takes place. Maybe stretching techniques or text about what to do in the breaks could be a good idea.