Improving Vision with the Bates Method
By Jackie Christensen, BS, HHP, NC, MH
Faculty Member of GCNM
The Bates Method is a technique that can be used to help restore normal, healthy, functional use of the eyes. Dr William Horatio Bates, who received his medical degree in 1885, developed it. Before the turn of the century Dr. Bates had become increasingly dissatisfied with the conventional ophthalmological practice and began his own research into eyesight disorders, which led to the development of the Bates Method in 1891. Under the Bates model, vision impairment is caused initially by a habit of strain and in modern society with the increased use of computers both at school and on the job it has created chronic, excessive stress on our visual system. Visual stress from extreme close-up work may cause complaints such as blurred vision, headaches, dry eyes, excessive fatigue, neck and back pain which are all signs of “computer vision syndrome.” It is now over 100 years since Dr William H Bates first began developing and refining his etiology of poor sight. In his years of practice Dr. Bates used his method for myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, old-age sight, squint, 'lazy' eye, and today it can be used to alleviate computer eyestrain.
Within the Bates Method it is believed that vision impairment is caused initially by a habit of strain and the solution is to learn how to relax. The techniques used in the Bates method simply require the participant to look and relax. This is done to re-establish the normal, natural interaction between eye and mind. Dr. Bates developed techniques such as palming, sunning and the swings to help achieve relaxation. He believed that seeing movement is the single most important technique you could practice to help your eyesight. Therefore he developed the drifting swing as a technique to help facilitate seeing movement. It was designed to let your eyes and mind keep moving continuously to surrounding objects. As you acknowledge each object, think about a similar object that exists in your memory. For example, if you glance at a chair, recall another chair, think about it for a moment, and then move on. The links in the memory do not have to be precise or factual, all that is required is that your eyes and mind are engaged in doing the same thing at the same time, this is the essence of Bates technique. With practice the lack of pressure on the visual system, and the lack of pressure on the mind to function has the effect of making an apparent effortless movement in the opposite direction of the movement of the head and eyes.
Along with the Bates Method it is also important to take computer breaks at least every 20 minutes. This will allow the eye muscles to recuperate and avoid tension and strain. Experts suggest taking short frequent breaks rather than longer less frequent breaks (Grossman). Herbs and nutrients can also be used to increase eye functioning. Bilberry is the European version of the blueberry, and has been called the vision herb for its powerful effect on all types’ visual disorders. Lutein is carotentoid in the macula. It protects against macular degeneration, and protects the rods and cones from free radical damage from UV light. Zinc can help to stabilize and even improve vision in people with macular degeneration and magnesium is a mineral that relaxes smooth muscles and helps prevent muscle spasms (Bates).
Sources:
Bates Method - Bates Association for Vision Education. Aug.-Sept. 2010. Web. 20 Sept. 2010. www.seeing.org.
Grossman, O.D., L.Ac., Dr. Marc. "Computer Eye Strain: How to Relieve It with Free Eye Exercises, Nutrition, Lifestyle."
Visionworks' Eye Exercises for Computer Users. 2003. Web. 20 Sept. 2010. www.visionworksusa.com/computereyestrain.htm.
Vision Works Incorporated. Better Vision for the Future. Vision Works, 2003. Print.
Book Review
The Infertility Cure: The Ancient Chinese Wellness Program for Getting Pregnant and Having Healthy Babies
By Randine Lewis, Ph.D
The author Randine Lewis is a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine with experience in clinical work in China, and is a licensed acupuncturist, an herbalist, and a national speaker on behalf of infertility organizations such as the American Infertility Association and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Her studies include both Eastern and Western medicine.
Dr. Christiane Northrup. MD describes this book so well in her comments “A wonderfully authoritative answer to the collective prayers of the many thousands of women to want to have a baby but have been told that they’re infertile. Using the considerable wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine, Dr. Randine Lewis lays out an ancient but fully updated way to preserve and enhance your fertility.”
Randine offers a natural way to treat infertility using natural alternative techniques, remedies such as dietary changes, herbal medicines, acupressure and mind/body medicine. Her program involves improving and supporting overall health and wellbeing to strengthen the organs and body systems important to reproduction. Focused on healing the specific conditions that affect fertility, she also supports reproductive technologies available through conventional medicine approaches including IVF (In Vitro) fertilization and hormone therapy.
The interior of the book begins with fourteen very moving testimonials from happy parents who, without her help would not have been successful at their having babies, a wonderful testimonial to her knowledge, compassion and expertise in this area of natural medicine. She also shares her own story of having to set aside her knowledge and beliefs from western medicine and embrace TCM which helped her get pregnant after being dismissed as infertile by many western doctors.
Her vision if of western medicine is described as being “technological wizardry that allows one to see inside the body with great accuracy” (pg.2) and her eastern medical training giving her a much different perspective, that of seeing the body as a microcosm of nature, with infertility being caused by an imbalance in the ecosystem of the body which is healed by balancing and restoring that ecological biological balance. Her metaphor is of her western and eastern training being the bridge between the two medical worldviews, each with value and strengths.
She quotes the sixteenth century physician Paracelsus in his ultimate wisdom, “The physician is only the servant of nature, not her master. Therefore, it behooves medicine to follow the will of nature.” Based on her knowledge and experience, her holistic approach, Randine’s viewpoint is that there is no such thing as infertility, that it is a myth. Through natural interventions and client education she believes any woman can conceive once optimal health is restored.
Reviewed By Moira Khouri NC, MH, HHP, CCP
Faculty Member of GCNM
Exercise of the Month:
Dead Bugs
Goal: Increase Core Stability
Exercise Description: Begin exercise lying on back. Engage the abdominal bracing (see GCNM March Newsletter). Lift both feet off the floor until the angle between the torso and thighs is 90 degrees and the angle between the thigh and leg is 90 degrees. Hold for a period of time particular to the individual and repeat 2-3 times or as desired. For example, one can start with a 10 second hold and repeat 3 times. To increase the difficulty, one can increase the time held and number of repetitions. See the first picture below.
To increase the difficulty begin the exercise as stated above and slowly extend the right leg by engaging the glutes and slowly bring the leg back to its starting position. Once the right leg has returned to its starting position, the left leg can repeat the same movement as the right one. See the picture directly below.
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To further increase the difficulty the arms can be incorporated. As the right leg is extended (as described above), the left arm reaches back to be in line with the torso. As the right leg and left arm begin returning to their starting position, the left leg begins extending and right arm begins reaching back. See the picture directly below.
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Student Profile & Interview
Milan Perry
SoNaturelle by Milan Natural Solutions for a Healthier You!
Milan Perry formerly worked as a “commercial print” Model through Chicago based talent agencies (Shirley Hamilton, Lori Lins Ltd, etc.), while maintaining a physically demanding job as a part-time Courier Truck Driver and Air Cargo Specialist for the FedEx Operations Hub at O'Hare International Airport for 18 years. The challenges involved with both of these endeavors led to her interest in finding methods of maintaining peak physical health, and to further broaden her knowledge of personal wellness and nutrition.
Milan is currently a Holistic Wellness Coach, Personal Chef, and Nutritional Counselor in Chicago, Illinois and maintains board membership through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP). She studied Nutrition, and Holistic Herbalism & Wellness at The Global College of Natural Medicine, where she received professional credentials as an (HHP) Holistic Health Practitioner, and her certification in Nutritional Consulting. Milan graduated with honors from The International Culinary School of The Art Institutes in 2010, with a specialization in Nutritional Cuisines. She consults a diverse clientele, but primarily works with women to empower them to make appropriate health and nutritional choices for their own unique situations.
Milan C. Perry HHP, NC, Personal Chef
www.SoNaturelle.com WEBSITE COMING SOON!
http://weightloss.meetup.com/5016
Global College of Natural Medicine Graduate Interview:
1. What drew you to study with GCNM?
In 2006; I had just resigned from FedEx Express Corp after 18 years of service in various positions—the last of which, being a part-time Courier Driver and Information Agent for the O’Hare Airport Shipping location. I had received numerous “Highest Quality Service” recognition awards and had been able to perform my job responsibilities without any major problems until the constant exposure to toxins from airplane and equipment exhaust fumes— as well at the repetitive, awkward motions of loading/unloading packages and jumping in and out of trucks—began to take its toll on my hair, skin, and joints. For the first time in my life my natural born vitality and health began to suffer, at which point I realized that I had to start addressing these ailments and health issues, or they would start to spiral into a downward process. I made the decision to become a “career changer”, and began to search for something different and healthier, that I could feel passionate about and find and a way to connect with people. I have always prided myself on maintaining my normal size and healthy weight for the past few decades, along with a vital and youthful appearance. I realized the connection between my personal philosophies of wellness, and the ways in which I feed and care for my family. I researched classes and institutes of Holistic learning—some of which had negative press—but I continued and eventually found the GCNM.
2. What expectations did you have for the NC, MH and HHP courses?
I was excited about the personal benefits for my own wellness, but I always expected to understand it in a way that I could eventually use the knowledge that I would gain to help others.
3. Did the courses meet those expectations?
Yes, they did. I was somewhat apprehensive and felt overwhelmed initially, but in time I learned to MEDITATE on what I was learning and digest it at my own pace, so that after a while—the pieces of the puzzle just came together. But it definitely required a concentrated focus (and a quiet study area; not a coffee shop).
4. What have your experiences with distance study been like?
Very positive and beneficial in ways that I didn’t realize or expect at the onset. I recognized the importance of becoming self-disciplined in my studies. It also helped to improve my personal time management techniques, which has actually made me become a better businesswoman, because you learn to be more self-motivated. The convenience of the courses was overall the most enjoyable part of the experience.
5. What have your experiences with the GCNM staff been like?
The staff was always extremely helpful and knowledgeable in a very personable and genuine manner. I never felt as if I was alone or “DISTANT” throughout my studies. If I had any questions—the response time was generally the same day, or within a few hours, or the very next day at the latest.
6. What was your experience with the subjects covered in the NC, MH and HHP courses?
Each of the subjects permitted me to build upon what I had previously learned, but also made a deeper imprint on my mind. I have learned how the body is interconnected and that each part functions as part of a whole. It really impressed upon me how what we eat and how we treat our bodies, plays such a large role in how we feel and function.
7. What was your experience with the materials provided and information presented in the courses?
The information was usually very clear, concise, and authoritative—without coming across as “too clinical”.
8. What do you plan on doing with the knowledge gained by the courses?
My desire from the beginning was to start my own wellness practice, and I am pleased to say that with the support of family and friends—that goal has been recently achieved! I’m looking forward to watching myself grow as a Holistic Practitioner, and experience the satisfaction and joy of seeing those of whom I am privileged to assist, make changes in their lives.
9. Do you plan to continue on with any of the BSHH, MSHH and PhD Degree programs?
At present, I’m I just looking to focus my attention on building my practice which is currently still in its foundation stages. Depending on how it grows—I would definitely consider exploring more advanced degree programs in the near future.
10. Any further comments you would like to add here?
I wish to express my appreciation to my fellow students and Alumni who have taught me, inspired me, and motivated me throughout my apprenticeship with the GCNM. Everything that I have learned about the human body; eating for good health, Bio-Chemical Individuality & Herbalism, and how to start and grow your own business has all served to make me more confident in my abilities and talents . Thank you sincerely, to everyone that played a role in developing my growth and helping me to “create my tomorrow”.
Interviewed By Moira Khouri NC, MH, HHP, CCP
Faculty Member of GCNM
Search online for values in the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference.
