When I last attended the International Glaucoma Symposium, one of the presentations which resonated with me was by Professor and Ophthalmologist, Tanuj Dada from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
Through his pioneering research on meditation and its impact on glaucoma patients he offers an alternative but complementary therapy for those already on conventional treatment for their eye disease.
His talk offered compelling reasons for all of us to adopt the practice of meditation, yogic or deep nasal breathing.
Physiological benefits
Helping to increase cerebral and ocular blood flow
Increasing blood oxygenation
Reduces cortisol (stress hormone ) release
Increase in nitric oxide-a natural vasodilator which is released by most cells in our body, including the eye
Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and reduction in sympathetic nervous system activity ( therefore, helping to mediate our fight or flight response)
How this helps our physical and mental well-being
Promotes brain health and neural plasticity along with synthesis of grey and white matter in the cerebral cortex
Reduction in intraocular pressure – may be a useful adjunctive therapy for those diagnosed with glaucoma
Reduction in blood pressure
Meditation creates a relaxation response thus helps to reduce stress and anxiety
Promotes quality sleep
Helps to activate our pre-frontal cortex (our thinking brain) and deactivates our reptilian (reactive) brain. This helps us return to a mental state of learning
As an Optometrist who manages glaucoma, I look forward to discussing possible lifestyle changes with my patients which may have a positive effect on their eye condition. For some time I have recommended a healthy diet and moderate exercise but meditation and yogic breathing will now be included in our conversation.
If you have glaucoma it is important to continue your eye medication as this is the best and most proven way to keep your eye pressure in check. Furthermore, if you have been told you are at risk of glaucoma it is important to always attend your regular eye health reviews with your optometrist or ophthalmologist. Always consult with your eye care professional if you are considering making lifestyle changes which may have an impact on your glaucoma management.