In memoriam: Professor Shigeto Yamawaki (January 15, 1954–June 8, 2026)—a visionary leader connecting Japan, Asia, and the world.

Eye diseases refer to a broad range of conditions that affect the health and functionality of one’s eyes, often leading to impaired vision and decreased quality of life (QOL). Common examples of such conditions include glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, dry eye disease, and diabetic retinopathy. When visual function is impaired, eye diseases might interfere with everyday tasks such as reading and driving, increase susceptibility to injury, limit one’s independence, and hinder social activities, all of which may in turn affect an individual’s quality of life., Furthermore, those diagnosed with eye diseases may be at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety. Potential explanations for this increased risk include the aforementioned decrease in quality of life, in conjunction with fears about disease progression, decreased visual function and potential blindness, and requiring lifelong or invasive treatments. Currently, there is evidence that suggests a relationship between eye disease and worsened quality of life. One review of systematic reviews found that globally, adults with visual impairment or eye disease tended to have poorer quality of life outcome scores, including subscale measurements such as mental health, psychosocial functioning, and fatigue. Another review found that those diagnosed with dry eye disease have higher odds of experiencing depression and anxiety, and that these outcomes are correlated with dry eye symptoms. Similar associations have been found in populations with glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Meditation and breathing exercises are frequently performed with the purpose of focusing the mind, facilitating relaxation, and enhancing mental wellness. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of meditation and breathing exercises on symptoms of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality., Since eye disease patients tend to have a lower quality of life, meditation and breathing exercises may be beneficial in helping to address these problems. The advantages of these practices are that they require little to no equipment, can be done at virtually no cost, and individuals may freely choose when to practice.