What Is It?

Guided Imagery is a mind-body approach that uses the “mind’s eye”—one’s internal processes—to support healing. It is closely related to hypnosis, psychotherapy, and biofeedback, which may also incorporate the use of images as part of therapy. Also known as guided visualization, this mind-body practice has been used throughout history to change behaviors, perspectives, and physiology.¹

How It Works

A typical session might start with a person being guided through relaxation exercises. After that, the clinician and the patient begin exploring visual images, as the clinician offers various cues. Initially, a positive image might be created to help the patient relax more; for example, they may be encouraged to visit a safe or beautiful place. Sometimes the patient comes up with the image, and sometimes the practitioner does. Most often, they collaborate. Ultimately, Guided Imagery is controlled by the person experiencing it. This allows for a sense of mastery and control, which can fuel self-directed change efforts.²

Guided Imagery promotes an altered state of awareness. It is a means by which a person can communicate with their subconscious, or unconscious, mind. Images can distract from pain, as people work with and even alter imagery related to their discomfort; a person may visualize a change in the pain’s color, or replace the pain with a different feeling, such as warmth. Imagery can also induce relaxation and help people cope more effectively with stress.

As they are working with an image, a person is encouraged to be very descriptive and to use all their senses. They are also encouraged to note emotions that arise. Different people gravitate more to focusing on senses.

Imagery can affect almost all major physiologic control systems of the body, including³:

• Respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure
• Metabolic rate
• Digestive system motility and secretion
• Cortisol (stress hormone) levels
• Cholesterol levels
• Immune system activity
• Mood, including levels of anxiety and depression

How to Use It