Vision Improvement, Naturally: Q&A

by C.J. Wilson/VisionEducators.com

Q: What is Natural Vision Improvement?

A: Vision improvement is a process of re-learning to see, by changing poor visual habits to those which support good vision. Dr. William Bates, an ophthalmologist who practiced early in the 1900s, was the first pioneer in this work. Many practitioners work strictly with Dr. Bates' methods; others include techniques from vision therapy (vision training done in an optometrist's office) and other wholistic methodologies. Relaxation and re-education of the mind and eyes are at the foundation of any vision training.

Q: Who can benefit from vision education?

A: Vision education can benefit everyone. It is very beneficial for reducing eye strain and computer strain syndrome. It can benefit those with refractive errors: nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), "middle age sight" (presbyopia), and astigmatism. It can also benefit those with eye teaming problems, including amblyopia (lazy eye) strabismus, and double vision. It can be beneficial to those diagnosed with eye diseases (such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration) to complement their doctor's care. It can be beneficial to people of all ages, children to the elderly.

Q: How does it work?

A: Dr. Bates discovered in his decades of research on eyes and vision that tension and strain are the cause of poor sight. Vision happens primarily in the brain. The retina, the back of the eye develops from brain tissue. Unconscious or conscious mental and physical strain affect the muscle function of the eyes, causing poor vision. Vision educators teach the habits of good vision, as well as exercises to promote effective eye coordination, depth perception, and skills for effortless seeing.

Q: Do I have to throw away my glasses to improve my vision?

A: Vision improvement is usually a gradual process. If you are just beginning to need glasses, you may be able to do without them right away. It is always crucial to use the appropriate lenses for safety-related situations such as driving. Those who have worn glasses for many years may need to step down their prescription, using a lens that gives less than 20/20 vision. If one always wears a full compensating lense, they eyes have no where to go; they will adjust to what is in front of them. In most states 20/40 is considered legal to drive, and many vision improvement students will wear a lense that gives them 20/30 or 20/40.

A general rule of thumb with lenses is to use the weakest lens you can, to do what you need to do safely, without strain. If going without lenses leads you to strain, it is better to wear a weak lense.

Q: How do I find an optometrist who will prescribe a weaker lens?

A: You may have to shop around to find someone who will work with you. You may choose to keep your old, stronger glasses for driving (i.e. especially at night, or in unfamiliar places). Ask the optometrist if they are willing to prescribe a lense which will be approximately 20/40, legal to drive, but not full strength. If they are not willing, go somewhere else (it is your money, after all. You are paying for their service).

Q: How can I learn more about the field of vision education?

A: There are two websites with practitioner listings: VisionEducators.com and VisionEducators.org. At the first site, there is also a list of books which will help you learn more about vision, how it functions, and what you can do to improve yours. At the second site, there are also products, such as kits and tapes which are available.

CJ Wilson is a Certified Vision Educator based in Asheville NC. CJ received her original certification from Janet Goodrich, author of Natural Vision Improvement, in 1994. She has also studied with Dr. Robert Michael Kaplan, O.D., Samuel Berne, O.D., Ellis Edelman, O.D. and other practitioners in the field. In addition, she has extensively studied the Hakomi Method of body-centered psychotherapy, Touch for Health, and has taken the basic course on Syntonics (colored light therapy). She offers private classes, group workshops and Vision Immersion programs in Asheville and around the Southeast. She can be reached at cjwilson@madison.main.nc.us, or 275 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville NC 28801. (828) 281-3230.


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