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Your eyesight improve naturally with Bates Method

Rose, 9/8/2023

By RosemariePublished 8 months ago 3 min read
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Your eyesight improve naturally with Bates Method
Photo by Ion Fet on Unsplash

The concept of eyesight is fascinating. Contrary to popular belief, our eyes don't rely solely on movement or crossing them to function. In fact, forcefully controlling their focus often results in blurry vision. Dr. William Horatio Bates, a renowned ophthalmologist, developed the Bates method as a set of techniques to improve eyesight without relying on corrective lenses. Let's explore some key approaches used in this method.

It's important to note that the Bates method doesn't focus on external eye exercises or a specific daily routine. Instead, it emphasizes understanding the underlying mechanics and conscious experience rather than visible actions. One technique of the Bates method is the "long swing," which involves moving your head from side to side like a pendulum. During this exercise, the experience occurs internally in the visual cortex where actual seeing takes place, rather than in the eyes themselves. The Bates method encourages shifting focus away from the eyes and their actions and instead concentrates on the conscious experience. It does not involve forcefully changing or bringing anything into focus.

Dr. Bates believed that exerting effort to focus on something when it's blurry only strains the eyes, which is detrimental. When trying too hard to focus, the eyes become still and the surrounding muscles tense up, preventing natural adjustments. During the long swing, there is no attempt to see or make anything happen. It is simply experiencing the movement in the visual field induced by head movement, similar to a camera panning. Objects in the visual field move from left to right as the head moves, creating a sweeping motion. Even when closing the eyes, the memory of the sensation of movement is relied upon.

The activation of imagination, as emphasized by Dr. Bates, plays a crucial role in improving vision. Releasing the gaze and focusing on the movement while swinging around the room allows the eyes to naturally adjust and function optimally. This practice encourages necessary eye functions and helps maintain a clear focus. Although it may seem strange and intensify redness up close, its purpose is to illustrate the mobility of the eyeballs. When we are accustomed to staring, these movements are inhibited.

The long swing exercise aims to restore these natural movements. As the swing progresses, the visual field continuously changes, alternating between light and dark, which then carries over into everyday life, resulting in clearer vision and an evolving panorama. This reinforces the memory of the sweeping movement. If struggling to perceive movement, using a finger as a reference point can be helpful. As soon as the swing begins, everything can be observed sliding along behind the pointing finger, enhancing the sense of movement. It is also possible to imagine the finger as an extension of the nose, extending until it touches a color.

By mentally stroking this imaginary extended pointer over different color patches, a visual exercise is engaged in while swinging. In conclusion, the Bates Method offers a comprehensive approach to naturally enhancing eyesight. By incorporating relaxation techniques, eye exercises, and healthy habits into your daily routine, you have the potential to improve your vision and reduce eye strain. It is important to note that individual results may vary, so consulting an eye care professional before making significant changes to your eye care routine is advisable. With dedication, patience, and a positive mindset, the Bates Method can be a valuable asset in your quest for better eyesight.

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About the Creator

Rosemarie

Self Taught Content and Copywriter Freelancer.

B. Sc. in Nursing Practice Development

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