The Bates Method mainly focuses on restoring functional, healthy and normal use of the eyes. It is an alternative therapy which aims to secure relaxation of the mind and then the eyes. William Horatio Bates, M.D., (1860-1931) discovered the Bates Method. He attributed most of the eye problems to eye strain. He had a strong feeling that glasses were harmful and unnecessary. Palming is one of the Bates Method’s to improve your eye sight.
Try Palming
Palming means that you cover your closed eyes using your hands in such a manner that you don’t put pressure on your eyeballs. You place the palms of your hands in a cupping position over each eye. In the cupping position, your fingers are interlaced partly on your forehead.
You should completely avoid any form of light to enter the eyes. Try to avoid light as much as possible. Once after palming, ensure that light doesn’t enter your eyes. Then, you should close your eyes.
Palming Positions
- You should sit in a comfortable chair in front of a high-rising table with a few cushions stacked together on top of it. You should keep your elbows on the cushions to provide them a resting postion. You should stack enough cushions to ensure that you can bring your palms easily to your eyes. This step prevents you from stooping forward or having to look upwards.
- You should rest your elbows on the cushions. Try to bring your hands in front of your eyes. Then, close your eyes and rest and relax in the darkness. Remember to keep breathing!
- You can also lie down on your back with a pillow or a few books under your head for support. Keep your knees up and your feet flat on the floor. You should then bring your hands to your eyes and palm them. This step has an disadvantage as as you have to hold your arms up. This tends to make it difficult for you to palm for a long period.
