The experience of relaxation is essential to counteract the harmful effects of chronic stress on the body. Through the regular practice of relaxation techniques, one can begin to reverse this cumulative, damaging process, and engage the body's incredible potential for self-healing.
Visualization and Guided Imagery meditation is a powerful, creative and engaging way to soothe yourself and move into the state of deep rest and relaxation. It is a powerful tool for changing your life. Through visualization you intentionally use your imagination to change your behavior, help your mind and body to heal, and alter the way you feel.
In her book, Staying Well With Guided Imagery, Belleruth Naparstek says that Guided Imagery is "a kind of directed, deliberate daydreaming, a safe and effective method of utilizing your sensory imagination." Guided Imagery helps you relax so that your mind and body may rest and recover from the ravages of chronic stress.
Guided Imagery works because your body doesn't fully distinguish between evocative, sensory images and real events. Therefore, when one is in a state of deep relaxation, the images we choose to focus on are potent and real to the body.
One way to start the practice of visualization is to use an audio CD, either one that is professionally produced or your own recording of a chosen meditation script. You can also practice on your own by bringing to mind an image that you find relaxing -- a soothing image of a favorite place or a happy experience. Breathe slowly and deeply as you use all of your imaginal senses to create and savor your chosen image.
Visualization and Guided Imagery are useful techniques to help you allow your body to relax and experience the Relaxation Response.
Take a little time, today, to visualize a safe, serene and comforting scene in which you have everything you need. You are perfectly relaxed and content as you drink in the beauty of the setting that you have created. Breathe with awareness as you experience, in your imagination, perfect contentment and satisfaction. If you want something, you have only to imagine it and voila! you have added it to the scene you are creating. Allow yourself to stay in this imagined scene for a while. When you are ready, come back to the so-called "real world." Notice any sensations in your body.
The Relaxation Response is the antidote to chronic stress, which leads to a compromised immune system, greater vulnerability to disease, and to more rapid aging. Twenty minutes of Relaxation Response each day can reverse the effects of chronic stress!
Sandi Anders, M.Div., R.Y.T. is a yoga and meditation teacher and life coach in Nashville, TN. Visit her professional website for more articles and resources. She has created the two-CD set The Alchemy of Peace & Love combining a gentle and effective relaxation meditation with a powerful guided imagery experience to boost self-esteem and self-acceptance.
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