GUIDED VISUALIZATION
What Is Guided Visualization Used For?
Guided imagery is a traditional mind-body technique that is also considered a form of hypnosis. Visualization and guided imagery offer tools to direct one’s concentration on images held in the mind’s eye. These therapies take advantage of the connection between the visual brain and the involuntary nervous system. When this portion of the brain (the visual cortex at the back of the head) is activated, without receiving direct input from the eyes, it can influence physical and emotional states. This, in turn, can help elicit physiologic changes in the body, including therapeutic goals.
What is this therapy used for?
Because guided imagery is a mind-body therapy, any stress-related health concern, including high blood pressure, pain related to muscle tension, insomnia, and anxiety or depression, may be alleviated via this approach. Associated conditions, such as skin rashes or irritable bowel syndrome, are also amenable to guided imagery. It has been shown to be beneficial in treating autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease, and can be useful to alleviate chronic allergies, hives and asthma.
How can Guided Imagery help?
- Stress reduction and relaxation
- Active visualization or directed imagery – for improving performance, changing behavior, or influencing an outcome
- Receptive imagery – in which words and images are brought to consciousness to explore and give information about symptoms, treatments, moods or illnesses
