Shaking or vibrating your eyes on command is a relatively rare ability, known as voluntary or intentional nystagmus. This condition is not very common and is estimated to occur in less than 1% of the population.
Nystagmus is an involuntary rhythmic movement of the eyes, which can be caused by a variety of factors including neurological conditions, inner ear disorders, or medications. However, intentional nystagmus is a different phenomenon, in which individuals are able to voluntarily control the movements of their eyes to create a shaking or vibrating effect.
There is limited scientific research on the prevalence of voluntary nystagmus, but some studies suggest that it may be more common in certain populations. For example, one study of medical students found that intentional nystagmus was more common in individuals with a family history of the condition, suggesting a potential genetic component.
There are also anecdotal reports of intentional nystagmus being more common in individuals with certain personality traits, such as anxiety or a tendency towards hypervigilance. However, these associations have not been well-studied and are not well-understood.
It’s worth noting that intentional nystagmus can be trained and learned through practice, even in individuals who do not have a pre-existing tendency towards the condition. Some people may be able to learn the skill relatively easily, while others may need more practice and training to develop the ability to control their eye movements in this way.
In terms of the potential risks or complications associated with intentional nystagmus, there are some concerns that frequent or prolonged use of the technique may cause eye strain or fatigue, and may even increase the risk of developing nystagmus or other eye disorders over time. However, these risks are not well-understood and are based primarily on anecdotal reports.
In general, intentional nystagmus is a relatively rare ability, but one that can be trained and learned with practice. While there are some potential risks associated with the technique, these risks are not well-understood and are based primarily on anecdotal reports. If you’re interested in developing the ability to shake your eyes on command, it’s important to approach the technique with caution and to seek advice from a qualified medical professional if you experience any discomfort or concerns.