Guided imagery is a system of guided thought. Scripts based on visualizing a specific problem being solved or describing a relaxing environment are read aloud to the recipient of the treatment. The recipient enters into a relaxed meditative state and inwardly visualizes the scene being described.
Uses
This therapeutic treatment is used for a wide range of purposes from relieving general anxiety to aiding the effectiveness of chemotherapy. The meditative quality of guided imagery makes it a natural stress reducer. It is believed by many that visualizing the immune system in action boosts its effectiveness, making guided imagery a positive addition to healing regimens.
Products
Purchasing guided imagery sessions is an easy way to get started. People new to the practice may benefit from premade imagery recordings. This takes the guesswork out of the equation. Ask to hear recordings before buying them. The voices on recordings will vary in gender, pitch, and tone, and not every voice will be appealing. Guided Imagery Inc. currently offers sample recordings.
Techniques
Individuality is an advantage when creating guided imagery. Create imagery that fits personal values and lifestyle. Do not worry about "doing it right"---guided imagery is highly subjective. Create a scene that has personal meaning. When using guided imagery for relaxation, choose scenery that is appealing to you. Some people connect with water settings, while others will connect better with a forest setting or sky setting. Create imagery that is very specific to healing purposes. For instance, cancer patients often visualize blood cells attacking and defeating cancerous growths.
Write down imagery instructions and read them aloud, recording them to be played during sessions. Alternatively, have a friend read the instructions aloud. When writing a script for another to speak, be sure to indicate where each pause should occur and how long each pause should be.
Music
The use of music is a personal choice. Certain types of music can intensify the experience for some people. Popular genres for background music include Celtic, Native American, New Age, and Classical. Try nature sound compilations for imagery focusing on nature.
Benefits
Autonomy is important to mental well-being. Everyone has an inherent need to feel in control of his or her existence. Guided imagery provides a venue that gives individuals complete control over what happens next. Enjoy that control and the creative potential that goes with it. Even with guided imagery products that prepare the mental landscape for the listener, the individual mind will take control by adding its own touch to each component that makes up the scenery. The wonderful thing about guided imagery is that, with a little tweaking, it can be made relevant to any disease, stressor or disorder.
No comments:
Post a Comment