Sound Therapy Part 4 | Guided Imagery

Guided imagery is a relaxation technique using visualization, sound, and guided meditation to help reduce stress and anxiety. In sound therapy, guided imagery uses sound to help support relaxation. 

The power of images within the brain goes back to ancient times - both Aristotle and Hippocrates believed they enlivened the heart and body.  Used for centuries for healing, guided imagery is recorded as far back as the 13th century having been used by Tibetan monks.  

How does sound healing with guided imagery work?

Did you know that our brains light up when an image is seen? Surprisingly, it doesn’t matter if the image is real or imagined, our brain acts as if it is actually happening regardless.  Guided imagery is a process that involves listening to relaxing sounds, listening to someone’s voice, and breathing practices that enhance the experience of relaxation and mindfulness. Calming your body and mind begins almost immediately and provides lasting effects of resilience to help better cope with stress in challenging situations. 

As images are visualized, your body sends messages to your body’s autonomic nervous systems, as well as your endocrine and immune systems. The relaxed state you enter during helps balance between your body and mind, your feelings and body functions aligned. 

Guided imagery practice involves laying in a quiet area where you feel comfortable and safe.  You close your eyes and practice deep breathing as you would in meditation.  Using sound to help guide you in visualizations that you can imagine sounds, scents, touch, textures, and a peaceful feeling in the scene of your choice.  As you are guided you will imagine interacting with this scene.  Taking a guided imagery workshop where you are guided by an instructor can help you to learn how to learn this relaxation technique. 

Benefits of guided imagery

• Stimulate calm brain waves
• Promotes relaxation
• Pain reduction
• Reduces tension
• Anxiety relief
• Improves mood
• Reduces fatigue
• Cope with chronic illness

Want to learn more about practicing with guided imagery

Donna provides Sound and Guided Imagery workshops with Quartz Crystal Bowls, Tibetan Bowls, Tuning Forks, Drums, Rattles, and other meditative sounds. Click here to learn more about workshops with Guided Imagery.