Within the context of natural vision improvement, the term “Relaxation” is used in the sense of the 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 with curiosity and interest. It is the opposite of trying to see. When talking about the way you look (to yourself or to others), 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.
This section will introduce you to the most fundamental technique through which you will learn what visual relaxation feels like, so that you can recall it and retain it as you use your eyes throughout the day.
LET’S PRACTICE
PALMING
Palming is a key relaxation practice
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
If your mind shows you pictures, look at them with curiosity. Otherwise simply enjoy the darkness, as the black color brings the deepest level of rest to the eyes.
When finished, slowly remove your hands, then blink 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.
While very long palming is beneficial to most students, those dealing with glaucoma should limit each palming session to a maximum of 10 minutes at a time. Several sessions throughout the day are beneficial for dealing with the condition.
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:
PALMING is a great time to condition your brain to accept the way you want to see. Neuropsychology tells us that we must first show our brain what we want, we must believe it, and only then can we receive it. The best way to do this is to record your vision of your eyesight, in your own words, with your own voice, then just play it while you palm. Use the Perfect Eyesight Affirmations (provided below) to get inspired. Make any change you want, but keep the language in present tense, as if all of this has already happened.
PALMING is also a way to absorb learning from the practice of any other technique
Start each vision improvement session with PALMING. Use the technique to release tension during any practice. When finished, palm again, and this time imagine the learning from your latest session.
Notice alternative palming positions (shown among the images)