Guided imagery and hypnosis are two techniques often used as part of a holistic healing philosophy. Practitioners of each believe the mind and body share such a deep connection that treating one should involve treating the other, as well. A number of historic and modern cultures practice forms of visualization and hypnosis, from the ancient Greeks, Sufis and Egyptians to modern Tibetans and Hindus.
Guided Imagery: Definition
Guided imagery is a form of relaxation therapy in which you visualize comforting images in an effort to relieve stress and anxiety. To do it correctly, you must immerse yourself in the image, closing your eyes and letting all your senses absorb the details your imagination presents. There isn't a one-size-fits-all image for everyone---you might visualize a person, a place, an animal, an imaginary scene or anything that gives you a sense of calm and well-being. Guided imagery is often accompanied by soothing music that complements your image. The process is meant to be relaxing and empowering at the same time, giving you a way to tap into your inner strength and channel your mental resources to regain a sense of balance. (See Reference 1, page 31-35)
Effects of Guided Imagery
In addition to relieving stress, practitioners believe guided imagery can also decrease pain and jump-start your body's healing process. When the brain enters a state of relaxation induced by guided imagery, positive physiological changes may also occur. Benefits can include enhanced immune system function, lowered blood pressure and decreased heart rate. Guided imagery has been studied as a tool for alleviating pain, reducing the discomfort associated with chemotherapy and lowering cortisol levels in surgical patients according to the scholarly paper, "The Effects of Guided Imagery and Music on Anxiety" by Michele Bertini.
Hypnosis: Definition
Hypnosis is a technique used to help you deal with painful memories, undesirable behavior or deep-seated fears. The hypnotist induces a state of deep relaxation, similar to a trance, by using his voice and a series of directions or images that allow you to relax. While you're deeply relaxed, the hypnotist can help talk you through painful or suppressed memories or help you visualize yourself completing difficult tasks, such as quitting smoking or performing at your peak in a sporting event, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Effects of Hypnosis
One of the most useful effects of hypnosis is reducing pain. A 2000 study by the University Hospital of Liege in Belgium subjected patients to hypnosis and tested them for pain response while monitoring their brain activity. The patients under hypnosis reported less pain and discomfort than those not under hypnosis. Hypnosis has also been used to try to help people build self esteem, talk about painful events in their past, and conquer fears about things like childbirth, dental work, chemotherapy and surgical procedures.
Similarities & Differences
Both guided imagery and hypnosis use positive visualizations and deep relaxation to help you through a stressful situation. Hypnosis tackles the problem head-on. Your visualization involves seeing yourself overcome an obstacle---whether it's successful public speaking, getting a hole in one on the golf course or confronting someone who hurt you. With guided imagery, the objective is to calm the mind and body using a generalized image that's soothing and comforting. You won't visualize yourself, as in hypnosis; instead, you visualize whatever makes you feel most at ease. The calm generated by this image will help your mind and body de-stress, giving you the positive energy you need to confront and conquer any problems you face.
Member Comments