Guided Visualization for Wellness

If you are new to these guided imagery techniques, or just enjoy hearing the voice of another person lead the process, give these tools a try. Just relax and go with the flow. No need to think about the next step or trying to do it right.

Guided Visualization

It's sometimes difficult to tell the difference between guided visualizations and hypnosis. Each has three stages. These stages are usually more obvious in hypnosis.

The first stage in a visualizing session might be as simple as saying "Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths and imagine..." Often this first step consists of a progressive relaxation technique or imagining a relaxing scene.

The second stage makes up most of the audio. It often includes visualizing passive scenes for relaxation or images related to the theme. Verbal affirmations and visualization instructions may also be included.

The last stage may be a refocusing on your body, giving gratitude or other ending to the practice. There may even be a counting up as in hypnosis.

If you are facing a serious illness and difficult treatments, these audios and videos can be very relaxing, empowering and helpful. Find one or two that you like and use them often.

Some patients credit this technique with helping them heal themselves. It empowers you to do something to help yourself during a time when you may feel quite dis-empowered. This in itself has great value.

Patients listen to audios during chemotherapy treatments. Research shows this improves emotional well-being. They often reduce side-effects and helps patients have a more positive experience.

Just like visualizing on your own, these audios prompt imagination, which is a conscious process. The neuro-chemistry of the brain changes and responds. You see in your mind's eye according to the verbal directions and suggestions.

If you appreciate ready made images to start with, videos are great. A mind movie is a personalized video for visualizing what you want.

The classic example of closing your eyes and seeing yourself bite into a sour lemon illustrates this point. Your mouth is probably watering just thinking about it. That's how fast the body responds to the mind and vice-versa.

Imagery capitalizes on this connection. Guided visualization, whether by audio or video, helps you form images that promote well-being and health. Learn more from this informational video.

Read more about the Power of Visualization and Affirmations here.

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