Is it true that "natural vision correction exercises" or "eye yoga" can naturally improve your vision and reduce/eliminate your need for glasses?
What some online sources are claiming is that doing these exercises can make your eyes "stronger" and reduce/eliminate your Myopia (nearsightedness), Hyperopia (farsightedness), or Astigmatism (curvature of your eye)... but this simply does not make sense anatomically & physiologically.
Eye movement exercises work the EXTRA-OCULAR muscles (the muscles that move your eyes in different directions) but these have NO effect on your refractive error (i.e. glasses prescription). Myopia, Hyperopia, and Astigmatism are simply a result of the shape of your eye and how light hits your retina.
In MYOPIA: the light forms an image in front of the retina, causing you to become near-sighted (distant objects are blurry). Myopic eyes tend to be longer than "normal" eyes.
In HYPEROPIA: the light forms an image behind the retina, causing you to become far-sighted (near objects are blurry). Hyperopic eyes tend to be shorter than "normal" eyes.
In ASTIGMATISM: it is the curvature of the cornea (front of the eye) that is asymmetric, leading to blur.
In PRESBYOPIA: due to natural age-related changes (that can't be stopped—at least not yet!) the eyes lose their ability to focus on near objects and thus reading glasses are necessary.
As you can see, there are anatomical & physiological reasons for refractive errors, which can only be corrected optically with glasses or contacts, or perhaps refractive laser surgery.
Which exercises CAN improve your vision?
1. Vision Therapy
These are eye exercises that ARE effective in improving vision issues related to poor binocular vision performance — i.e. the ability for your eyes to focus or to work together as a team. These eye exercises are prescribed by a licensed optometrist, and are uniquely tailored according to your specific condition.
2. 20/20/20 Rule
Blurred vision & eye strain can often result from excessive digital device use. Reduce the strain on your eyes by following this rule: Take a 20 second break every 20 minutes, by focusing on something 20 feet away (far away). This helps to relax your INTRA-OCULAR muscles that are responsible for focusing on near objects (these muscles DO have an effect on your vision).
I’m a HUGE advocate for preventive and integrative health care, however I do not support false and unscientific health advice! Be careful what you read, and always consult an expert in the topic.
If you're interested to learn more, book an appointment with me!
Call: (905) 829-8881 Email: myvision@orbeyecare.com
Dr. Sarah Oh received training at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry & Vision Science, and uses an evidence-based approach in managing myopia and other ocular conditions.
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