The Bates method is an alternative therapy aimed at improving eyesight. Eye-care physician William Horatio Bates, M.D., (1860-1931) attributed nearly all sight problems to habitual strain of the eyes. Bates self-published a book as well as a magazine detailing his approach to helping patients relax such "strain", and thus, he claimed, improve their sight. His techniques centered around visualization and movement.

The main objective of the Bates Method is to secure relaxation, first of the mind and then the eyes. Rest always improve vision. Effort always lowers it. Dr. Bates found that the simplest way to rest the eyes is to close them for a period of time and think of something agreeable. Most people find that they benefit from this