What do you imagine when you hear the phrase ‘holistic optometry’?
As the name suggests, holistic optometry posits an intimate connection between visual, mental and bodily health. The eyes are the key to the soul – meaning visual disturbances are linked to unwanted changes in mental health or the body. According to Dr Michael Christian, the core principles of holistic optometry can be summarised as see well, feel well, do well.
Therefore, simply prescribing some new, off-the-shelf lenses will not address the root cause of the eye condition and cannot promote better-quality eye health in the long term. Consulting with an experienced optometrist who understands the connection between eye health and overall wellness can provide a more comprehensive approach to your vision care. Let’s explore the relationship between eye and mental health in more detail.
Vision-Mind-Body Connection
Though eye vision is interconnected with mental and physical health, this connection can be difficult to fully define. The eyes form part of a complex system influenced by cognitive or mental factors and corporeal wellbeing. Changes in vision can be reflected in general health and wellbeing, but it often takes an expert approach to tease out the intricate details of this relationship. Incorporating exercises to train your vision into your daily routine can be an effective way to enhance visual acuity and overall eye health, particularly when guided by a holistic approach.
What is a Holistic Assessment?
Holistic optometry deploys several methods to assess vision, mind, and body as a unit. These methods are used in tandem rather than as individual methodologies.
- A thorough eye assessment will carefully track visual acuity, overall eye health, and refractive errors (refractive errors are slight abnormalities in the shape of the eye that stop light from focusing properly on the retina, resulting in distorted vision). Traditional eyecare will generally stop at the eye assessment, prescribing lenses or contacts to slow down the deterioration of the eye. Holistic optometry, however, considers other factors linked to the vision system. A behavioural optometrist for example can provide valuable insights into how your visual habits influence your overall health, making them an integral part of holistic eye care.
- Moreover, the specialist will then examine your body alignment and its impact on vision. They may also review your sleep, nutrition, and stress levels.
- They may ask further questions and will work with you to create a treatment plan to restore visual capabilities.
At the end of the detailed assessment, the specialist will develop an individual plan. You may be prescribed corrective tools, like prism lenses, which can gradually improve vision while improving mental and physical wellbeing.
The Benefits of Taking a Holistic Approach
The benefits of a holistic approach to eye care are manifold. Let’s examine a few of them:
- Holistic optometry offers a refreshingly preventative approach rather than just accepting visual deterioration as inevitable.
- Similarly, holistic optometry addresses the root cause of visual dysfunction rather than just reducing symptoms. Identifying and treating the root cause can also reduce reliance on medications.
- When exploring the root cause of the visual problem, the specialist will work with you 1:1. The treatment plan will be tailored to the individual’s specific condition and lifestyle.
- And, last but not least, improving vision can improve the overall quality of life. Eliminating the stress associated with visual difficulties can lead to a better quality of life.
The overall advantage of the holistic approach is that the patient is seen as more than their vision.
When prescribing eye care, thinking about the whole person is vital. Considering how vision interacts with your overall wellbeing has allowed us to shape eyecare that is actively improving rather than palliative. It’s important to book an eye test regularly to ensure that any underlying issues affecting your vision and overall health are identified and managed appropriately.
Microprism Vision has been helping people improve their wellness by dynamically assessing vision, mind, and body. Through personalised treatments, we’ve helped nearly 10,000 customers achieve long-term gains in their vision. Find out more about what we do here.