84% Better Eyesight! Erik's -3.00 To -0.50 D Progress | Shortsighted Podcast | Jake Steiner

Summary

In this episode of the 'Short-Sighted' podcast, the host interviews Eric, who shares his journey of reducing his myopia from -3.0 to -0.5 diopters in four years without glasses most of the time. Eric discusses his motivation rooted in personal development and health, his discovery of the Bates Method and ambiopia, and his use of 0.25 diopter differential glasses. He also talks about his experiences with cornea refractive therapy, ballroom dancing, and managing screen time. The conversation offers insights into the gradual process of vision improvement and the challenges faced along the way.

Takeaways

• 🕵️‍♂️ Eric's journey from -3.0 to -0.5 diopters in four years showcases the potential for vision improvement.
• 🌟 Personal development and health interests motivated Eric to embark on his vision improvement adventure.
• 👓 Eric initially started with glasses at -3.0 in one eye and -2.5 in the other, progressing to -0.5 diopters.
• 🔍 Eric discovered ambiopia through the Bates Method and Angie Hemp's videos, which led him to explore myopia.
• 🤓 The process of finding active focus was initially challenging for Eric but became easier with time and practice.
• 💃 Eric engages in ballroom dancing, an activity that doesn't require glasses and helps him stay away from screens.
• 📱 Eric consciously limits his screen time and tries to minimize direct staring at his phone screen.
• 👨‍🎓 As a college student, Eric is currently enjoying his summer vacation and has been focusing on his vision improvement.
• 🚫 Eric has not shared his vision improvement journey with his family or friends, as he feels they might not understand.
• 🏞️ Eric had a successful backpacking trip where he didn't need to wear glasses, indicating progress in his vision.
• ⏳ Eric is unsure how much longer his vision improvement process will take but is patient and committed to steady progress.

Q & A

What was Eric's initial eyeglass prescription?

Eric's initial eyeglass prescription was minus three diopters in one eye and minus two and a half diopters in the other.

How long did it take for Eric to reduce his prescription to around half diopter?

It took Eric approximately four years to reduce his prescription to around half diopter.

What method did Eric use to improve his eyesight?

Eric used the Bates Method, which he found out about through Angie Hemp's videos and other resources related to myopia.

What is the significance of the 0.25 differentials that Eric is wearing?

The 0.25 differentials are a type of eyewear that Eric uses, and he has noticed a significant difference when wearing them compared to when he is not.

How has Eric's interest in personal development and health influenced his journey with vision improvement?

Eric's interest in personal development and health motivated him to embark on the adventure of improving his eyesight, which is evident in his commitment to the Bates Method and other vision exercises.

What is the role of ballroom dancing in Eric's life, and how does it relate to his vision improvement journey?

Ballroom dancing is an activity that Eric has been learning for almost five years. It allows him to distance himself from screens and not require glasses, which is beneficial for his vision improvement journey.

How has Eric managed his screen time during his vision improvement process?

Eric has tried to distance himself from his phone, often leaving it in his car while at work, and not having it on him most of the time. He also avoids staring directly at screens and uses peripheral vision when possible.

What was Eric's experience with orthokeratology lenses, and how did it compare to his experience with glasses?

Eric used orthokeratology lenses, which are hard contacts worn at night to reshape the cornea. Although they were effective, they were expensive, and he eventually switched to glasses.

How does Eric feel about his progress, and does he have any specific goals for the future?

Eric is patient with his progress and does not feel the need to rush into achieving 20/20 vision. He plans to continue making small amounts of progress and reducing his dependence on glasses.

What advice does Eric have for others who might be considering using plus lenses during their vision improvement journey?

Eric advises against using plus lenses unless absolutely necessary, as they can sometimes lead to side effects like double vision or astigmatism. If they are needed, he suggests starting with very low plus lenses and wearing them for short periods, especially avoiding low light conditions.

What has been Eric's approach to wearing glasses now, and how does it differ from his initial prescription?

Eric now wears glasses only when he needs them, such as for computer use or watching TV. This is a significant change from his initial prescription, where he had a stronger dependency on glasses.