The subconscious mind serves as an interior gatekeeper of mental images and conceptions people hold about the self, other people and the world. The conscious and subconscious mind don't operate interactively in an open or aware manner, therefore it is difficult to balance information where access is moderated. Guided imagery uses techniques to access the subconscious mind in order to resolve problems, provide positive outcomes, or gain understanding into an issue or situation.
Guided Imagery 101
Guided imagery techniques use scripts that are read to you or recorded and played back. This therapeutic modality is solution-oriented and the suggestions provided work with the present core of an individual's thoughts, feelings and beliefs using auditory processing. A script typically invokes a multisensory experience that enables the mind and body to work together, solidifying an imprinted outcome. The purpose is to provide better images in order to understand and resolve issues and imagine a preferred situation. This is not a hypnotic state of concentrated attention where a mental health professional provides the solutions to the subconscious mind.
Techniques
The foundation of guided imagery is built upon the use of an active imagination where the subconscious and conscious mind communicate. Techniques include the use of simple visualization and direct suggestion using imagery, metaphor, storytelling, fantasy exploration and game playing, dream interpretation and drawing, according to the Academy for Guided Imagery.
Visualization Exercises
Visualization allows negative mental monologues to be replaced by positive, multisensory experiences of achievement. Imagine a successful performance, ease of achieving goals, a specifically preferred outcome or commitment to positive behaviors.
Write down a specific visualization with comprehensive details using all the senses. Include the demographic location and important moments and feelings. Make sure to include the desired outcome. Record yourself reading the script and listen to this recording when undisturbed and in a relaxed state. Highlight key phrases and repeat them to yourself throughout the day for a positive self-talk exercise.
Metaphors for Change
Metaphors are used to reshape ideologies by challenging the content of a belief, feeling or perception. Used side-by-side to interpret understanding and provide insight, this technique also presents an opportunity for misguided, negative and self-deprecating information to be confronted and changed.
Turn negative information into positive self-talk. Write down a sentence, quote or phrase that describes how you interpret your life. Next to that, challenge the thinking and perception and write something positive. Use a quote or phrase that illustrates quite the opposite. Challenge the thinking of one versus the other and whether or not change can occur simply through understanding perspective.
References
- "Academy for Guided Imagery.com"; What is Guided Imagery; 2010
- "The New York Times"; Who's Minding the Mind?; Benedict Carey; July 31, 2007
- "CollegeSportsScholarships.com"; Athletes Need to Set Goals and Visualize Results; Barbara a. Brehm, Ed.D.; Retrieved May 13, 2010
- "JudithPrager.com"; Guided Imagery and Metaphors for Healing: Ericksonian Magic; Judith Prager; Retrieved May 13, 2010
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