Bates Method
The Bates method is a holistic approach to vision which concentrates
on the use of the mind rather than the eyes. Surgery and lenses are considered
counterproductive as they treat the symptoms rather than the cause of defective
vision, which is strain. The principle of re-education is similar to that used
in Alexander Technique. There is also an emotional aspect, and practitioners may
recommend Bach flower remedies, homoeopathy, or similar ways to address this.
Dr William H. Bates (1860-1931) was an American ophthalmologist
who found that the relief of mental strain was fundamental to good use of the
eyes. We need to reverse habits of strain (which are mainly unconscious) and take
on board a new attitude to the world around us.
A practitioner will assess what you see and how you see it,
and then work with you using the basic techniques in ways that are relevant to
yourself. As you experience changes, you will be able to incorporate the techniques
into your daily life. Usually it will take six to twelve sessions to teach you
these, but may take longer in some cases.
The main techniques are:
- Palming: cupping the hands over closed eyes to shut out any
light and induce relaxation. Blinking is also good.
- Shifting: practicing the awareness that any point you look
at becomes most distinct when you look at it and less distinct when you look at
a different point.
- Swinging: developing awareness of movement in all areas of
the visual field, even when you are the only thing moving.
- Working with memory and imagination.
Article written by the Bates
Association for Vision Education
Click here for a list of practitioners, schools and
associations.
Useful Organisations:
Send an email to info@chisuk.org.uk
if you would like to have your school or association listed on this page.
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