Can Happiness Improve Your Vision?

Dr William Bates an eye specialist from the early 20th century believed eyesight improves immediately when the individual is thinking pleasant thoughts, or visualising pleasant scenes.

Today, medical science largely says this is “codswallop” for want of a better word (although I quite like using it)!

However, one thing that is scientifically proven today is stress can affect your vision.

There is an eye condition called “Central Serous Chorioretinopathy” or CSR (for less of a tongue twister), and this is most common amongst people who get stressed on a regular basis.

Stress causes increased cortisol levels, and this is thought to cause changes in the blood vessels of the choroid (the layer behind the retina), leading to leakage of fluid under the retina. This in turn can cause blurred or distorted central vision.

The good news, the main first line of treatment for this condition is lifestyle changes. Things like mindfulness, meditation/yoga, or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have been proven to work.

Most people recover from this condition within 3 to 6 months.

Every morning before work, I aim to at least go for a 10-minute brisk walk around the block, and try to become aware of my surroundings, listening to the sounds, smells, and sights around me.

Recently I have started to practice cursive writing, this gentle flowing motion has a calming affect! One of my patients said they like to do colouring books, and I started this as well.

It’s good getting in touch with the inner kid inside you!

I am what you call a worry wort, as an example, at the age of around 10, my Dad reminded me recently how I was asking him how you go about buying a house and getting a job!

My family think I am a Basil Faulty, from Faulty Towers, I do get easily stressed, so if you are like me, I would definitely practice some calming techniques because it will help your eyes as well as your mind!

If you are ready to book an eye test click here.