Bridging science and practice: Harnessing mind-body strategies

In the world of optometry, the intricacies of vision health are continually unfolding, propelled by advancements in both scientific understanding and clinical practice. Central to evolved care and practice is the recognition of the interplay between mental and physical well-being, and its implications for ocular health. This editorial briefly introduces the consideration of practical applications of mindfulness and mind-body connection strategies in the context of optometric care.

Stress, an omnipresent tenet of modern life, can play an influence on ocular health, precipitating a spectrum of conditions ranging from transient discomfort to chronic. Prolonged exposure to stressors (including medical management of depression and anxiety) triggers physiological responses that have been reported to manifest as ocular strain, dry eye syndrome and even visual acuity fluctuations.^1-3