Within the context of natural vision improvement, the term “Relaxation” is used in the sense of an active proper use of the visual system and the body. Looking in a relaxed way is the opposite of staring, straining, squinting, etc. It means looking without any effort made, as if you were observing your selected object with curiosity and interest. It is also contrary to “trying to see”. When talking (to yourself or to others) about the way you use your eyes, do not use the term “trying to see”. Replace it with “looking to see”. Just saying it will change your perspective and the way you use your eyes.

The mastery of relaxation will take you a long way, whether you need to improve your eyesight or just protect its current condition.

The technique you should learn in order to relax your eyes is called Palming. No Clarity shield is needed here, but shielding your eyes is. Palming gives the eyes the time to let go. By eliminating all visual signals, there is literally nothing for the eyes to do other than take a break. For this reason, Palming is a key practice in nearly all vision improvement approaches, including most Overbound programs. As you practice, pay attention to what visual relaxation feels like, so that you can recall it and retain it as you use your eyes throughout the day.

 

PALMING

  • Sit straight at a table with your elbows supported by a couple of firm pillows (or yoga blocks), do not lean over

  • Rub the palms of your hands to create warmth, then put your hands together in the form of a shallow scoop

  • Close your eyes and place your hands over your eyes, overlapping your fingers, touching your face and forehead, but not touching your eyes

  • Relax. Breathe freely

  • Simply enjoy the darkness; the black color brings the deepest level of rest to the eyes

  • If your mind shows you pictures, look at them, acknowledge them, then let them go

  • When finished, slowly remove your hands, then blink/flash a few times to adjust back to the light

The optic nerve connecting the eye and the brain takes 2-5 minutes to relax when in the dark. Expand your palming sessions over time to at least 5 minutes or even longer to maximize the impact of your practice.

Always make sure your elbows are supported, so that your shoulders stay relaxed and there is no pressure put on your face.

Practice Lenses: no lenses needed

Tips & Watch outs:

  • Start each vision improvement session with PALMING to prepare your eyes for your selected training.

  • Use the technique to release tension during any practice. Just pause, palm, then get back to it.

  • PALMING is also a way to absorb the learning from the practice of other techniques. Palm at the end of your practice sessions to speed up your success.

  • Practice on your own or be guided by the provided relaxation