How to Learn About Guided Imagery

Guided imagery has been used by cultural groups as diverse as Native Americans, ancient Egyptians and the Greeks. The theory is that the mind has power over the body to repair it or damage it. The images that the mind produces (or receives ) will dictate what it does to the body. Guided imagery seeks to present the mind with images that will heal the body.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Discover Guided Imagery

1. Learn that guided imagery has been in practice since ancient times and in more recent history with American Natives. It has been used to attempt to relieve pain and stress and speed up healing.

2. Know the theory behind guided imagery. It is believed that, since imagery is the primary way we communicate to the mind, imagery is also the way the mind will communicate with the organs. Positive images will result in positive physical results, while negative images have negative results.

3. Educate yourself about how a session of guided imagery works. It may consist of you focusing on a positive image, scenario or fantasy while listening to tranquil sounds. You can listen to a recorded guided imagery session. If you are working with a practitioner, he or she will provide the ambiance while directing your thoughts.

4. Find more information online by visiting a Web site like Holisticonline.com (see Resources below).

5. Learn more about this practice by reading 'Guided Imagery for Self-Healing' by Martin L. Rossman, available at Amazon.com (see Resources below).

Learn About Guided Imagery by Trying It

6. Find a guided imagery practitioner online. Visit the Worldhealthcenter.net Web site to search for guided imagery practitioners (see Resources below).

7. Forego seeing the professional and buy an audio recording to listen to in the comfort of your own home. There are myriad guided imagery CDs available online.

8. Ditch the professionals altogether and do everything yourself. All you really need is a place that will allow you to focus without being distracted. If practicing guided imagery strikes you as difficult or odd, just think of it as 'daydreaming with a purpose.'

Tips & Warnings

• The cost for a session of guided imagery can range from free to moderately affordable. You can be your own practitioner and guide yourself, listen to a recorded practitioner or hire one to work with you in person. In the last case, you'll want to ask about his or her rates ahead of time.
• Visit an ER right away if you experience intense chest pain or other symptoms of a heart attack.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider and keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.