What are the Bates eye exercises? What is the theory behind “better sight without glasses”?
Dr. William Bates, a New York oculist, in 1921 propounded a theory, admirably simple, that nearsightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism are caused by abnormal action of the six external eye muscles. He maintained that these conditions are forced and temporary, and could be made to disappear by exercises, which reduced eye strain and tension. Among the Bates eye exercises he propounded was “palming” (placing the palms of both hands over the eyes to conjure the image of black, a colour purported to have corrective and healing powers). There were also, shifting the eyes to counteract the bane of good sight, staring, by a “long swing” (swinging the entire body) or a “short swing” (moving only the head from side to side). Swaying of the neck to relax the neck muscles was also recommended. Bates eye exercises were purported to improve circulation and relaxation of the eyes, which they do. However, the magical properties ascribed to them of reducing spectacle number, is a myth. Bates plac
