Guided imagery relaxation is a stress management solution used by professional counselors. Psychologist Joyce Surbeck-Harris uses a guided imagery CD in her practice. She says, "it aids my clients in deep relaxation and helps to guide them to that inner core that is so important in healing."
Louis DiStasio agrees with Dr. Surbeck-Harris. He says, "This … is a wonderful tool for my patients who wish to relax as well as create a place in their mind where they can get away from life's stressors. I highly recommend it to reduce stress, find a quiet place to creatively problem solve or to deepen your spiritual connection."
What is Guided Imagery?
Think of guided imagery as daydreaming with a purpose. Rather than directing your imagination, however, you have a guide that does the work for you. Having a guide allows you to totally relax as you listen to the soft sounds and soothing voice. Many years ago there was a huge demand for subliminal message recordings that supposedly directed subconscious thoughts in a particular direction.
Guided imagery is similar to those recordings with the exception that the message is not hidden inside the music. The public did not like the idea of subliminal anything. Subliminal advertising was outlawed. We want to know what, if anything, is going into our thoughts. Guided imagery is far more successful, and there are many testimonials to its effectiveness.
Kate from Illinois said, "This … can take you to a place where you have nothing but peace. I suffer from anxiety and really needed a tool to help me relax. I can … feel a difference instantly. I consider [the] voice and guidance to be life changing."
Guided imagery, like music therapy, helps the parasympathetic nervous system do its job. Remember, chronic stress is due to the body jumping into fight or flight mode but not coming back into relaxation mode. Guided imagery creates a slideshow in your brain that’s like a mini-vacation at an all-inclusive Caribbean resort where the staff caters to your every need. Lying there in the warmth of the sun without a care in the world you simply relax, relax, relax.
Dr. Surbeck-Harris mentioned that she uses a guided imagery CD in her practice. Amazon.com features quite a few of the compact disks as well as downloadable mp3 files for as low as 99 cents.
Some of the more popular are listed here:
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