Visualization, also referred to as guided imagery, is an alternative medicine technique that requires participants to use mental images to change or heal something physical. Therapeutic visualization for weight loss is a common mind/body method designed to tap into the memories to evoke a behavioral response. According to Harvard Medical School, limited scientific proof exists to confirm the efficacy of visualization for weight loss.
Significance
The only way to lose weight effectively is to eat fewer calories than you burn. Unfortunately, that's often easier said than done as evidenced by the fact that nearly 64 percent of American adults are overweight. According to the Academy for Guided Imagery, visualization is a low-cost addition to a complete weight loss program that includes diet, exercise and cognitive behavior therapy.
Effects
The basic premise behind visualization is that by seeing your self thin and picturing yourself eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, you will more easily follow these positive suggestions. Negative, self-destructive thoughts often sabotage weight loss efforts by making dieters feel like failures and incompetent overeaters. Combined with positive thinking and therapy, guided imagery can add another layer of confidence and support to aid in your weight loss success.
Features
Visualization and guided imagery can be self-induced or facilitated through a therapist or recording. According to the National Center on Complementary and Alternative Medicine, guided imagery relies on a variety of delivery methods to introduce the verbal suggestions to your mind. Visualization is a common practice among athletes and is widely used for stress reduction, in addition to behavior modification programs, such as weight loss and smoking cessation.
Benefits
Stress is a major trigger that causes many overweight people to eat. According to MayoClinic.com, practicing visualization as a form of meditation can help to relieve stress and put you back into a calm frame of mind so that you can rationally decide whether to eat or not. Visualization is another form of meditation that can be used to slow down your breathing, lower your blood pressure and control your appetite. It allows you to relax and reduce negative emotions while filling your mind with positive reinforcement and discipline.
Warning
As with any complementary or alternative medicine practice, you should check with your doctor before attempting visualization to achieve weight loss, especially if you are undergoing any treatments that the therapy may interrupt. According to InteliHealth, visualization is safe for most people, although the modality can stir buried emotional traumas that could resurface during a session and cause unstable mental responses.
Member Comments