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The Bates Method



The Bates method was discovered by ophthalmologist Dr. William Horatio Bates in the late 1800s. It is based on the theory that poor vision comes from incorrect use of the eyes. The method is a natural therapy of correcting the misuse, therefore improving vision and eliminating the need for corrective lenses.

How does it work?

Techniques are taught so that the individual can relax his or her eyes, learn what is causing the strain and ultimately use the eyes more effectively. There are 5 procedures in the Bates method:

1. Palming: This step is intended to relax the eyeball and optic nerve. Individuals place each palm over the eye with their fingers on their forehead.

2. Sunning: Individuals c lose their eyes and look toward the sun, or a lamp, and slowly move their head side to side. It is important to move slowly and to palm afterward; sunning should last approximately three minutes for relaxation.

3. Swinging: This technique allows for the eye to knowingly perceive movement. There are variations of swinging but the 'Long Swing' is suggested for beginners. To complete the 'Long Swing', use a pointer and hold in front at eye level. Then begin shifting your weight from side to side, lifting the heel and turning the torso to the direction you are lifting. At the same time follow the tip in your hand- from middle to side and back to middle.

4. Swaying: Swaying can be described as shifting your weight from one foot to another, feet shoulder width apart. This is best experienced after palming.

5. Color days: A simple technique, color days entail going through your day looking for one specific color- any color of your choice.


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