Activities to Improve Visual Perception

Visual perception covers not only what you see, but also what you notice when you observe a scene. Some people are more visually perceptive than others, but you can work to improve your skills of visual perception. The key is to use your eyes for tasks you usually neglect.

Find the Differences

• If you fear you are missing the finer visual details in your everyday life, then sharpen your focus by looking at two seemingly identical images with minor differences. For example, you can look at two pictures from an average living room. Closely examine the images to find the subtle differences such as a misplaced item or any other disturbance. Start out with obvious pictures and work up to more difficult pictures that really make you think.

Eye Exercises

• Perception problems can stem from weak ocular muscles. Like any other part of your body, you must exercise your eyes to make them strong. Picture the mathematical symbol for infinity -- it looks like a figure eight on its side. Trace the shape of the mathematical symbol with your eyes. Move your eyes slowly and deliberately to get the most benefit from the exercise. Practice the exercise three times a day for two minutes each. Give your eyes time to rest between each two-minute interval.

Diet

• Certain foods can improve your eyesight just as they can improve other functions of your body. Add more lean protein -- turkey and fish, for example -- to your diet along with leafy green vegetables such as spinach. The foods contain vitamins and amino acids vital to healthy eyes and vision. Speak with your optometrist and dietitian about a healthy foods that benefit visual perception. Create a detailed meal plan based on the information they provide, and stick to it.

Blink

• Blinking is an essential function of your eyes to keep them healthy. Blinking usually happens automatically, but you can unintentionally train your body to shut off this natural instinct. This occurs when you focus on something and you don't want to miss a second of it. Your body will slow down the blinking reflex to meet your desires, but this practice isn't good. Make an effort to blink once every five seconds for two minutes straight. Your eyes will feel rested and focused, allowing you to perceive more information.