Yes, you can force the blip page to become very wide. "Force" is not recommended. In fact from time to time I deliberately PhotoRead without the blip page using only a soft gaze noticing the white of the page and the imaginary X technique, it's just as effective.
The blip page is only a key guide that you have photofocus it is a gentle gaze.
I've never come across the Bates system but years ago I've played with expanding my peripheral vision. The say that you can only recognise black and white in the outer limits. In the beginning I agreed but now I notice that I recognise colour in the outer regions just as well so I guess it's a case of using it.
I agree force is harmful. I consider the muscles of the eye much more delicate than say the muscles of the limbs where one can persistantly use a bit of force to strenghten the muscles. I never forced the periperal vision I just played with it from time to time now and again. Never to the point of tiredness.
Alex
