Martin Sussman, founder of the Cambridge Institute for Better Vision & author of the best-selling Program for Better Vision, shows very clearly in his book how it is possible to have sharper vision and more relaxed eyesight. Many of the things he talks about that are good for the eyes don’t really take any extra time to practice, since they can be done whenever we are using our eyes during the day.
Top 10 Habits for Better Vision – ways to use your eyes during the day so they don’t get stressed out.
Here’s one of his Top 10:
Martin says that it’s important to nourish and rest your eyes to keep them relaxed and sharp. One way the eyes are nourished is by light, and the best nourishment for eyes is natural sunlight. Try taking your next walk outside without your glasses or contacts and let your eyes absorb the natural, unfiltered sunlight. He says that it is advisable to spend at least 15 minutes a day outside - without any glasses or contacts.
Your eyes are rested by total darkness. The best way to rest you eyes is to close your eyes and place your cupped palm over the eyes. Martin suggests trying to visualize a pleasant scenario in your imagination when palming over your eyes, but anything you think about that’s not stressful will help to relax the eyes much more than just by shutting them.
Nurturing and resting your eyes can be done simultaneously. Close your eyes and face the sun (or look out the window). Let the sunlight fall on your closed eyes for 5-10 seconds and then shut out the light by putting your palms over your eyes for another 5-10 seconds. Repeat these steps 10 times (3 to 4 minutes). You’ll be surprised at how refreshed, relaxed – and sharper – your eyes are.
The type of indoor lighting is also important for the eyes. Use a kind of artificial light called “full spectrum”. Originally developed by Dr. John Ott, full spectrum lighting is the closest there is to the full range of natural sunlight. It has been proven in studies to increase productivity, lessen eye strain and make it easier to see.
While some people who wear glasses and contacts go for the quick fix of eye surgery and lasik treatments, there are serious risks, with more than 50,000 complications every year from these surgeries.
