What Goes On During Guided Imagery?
An instructor, audio tape, or written script helps guide you to focus your imagination and engage your senses (smell, sight, touch, hearing, taste) to mentally re-create a safe, welcoming, restful place. It may be a familiar place with positive memories, good fragrances, pleasant views, or soothing sounds. You may move around within this safe place, in your mind, becoming relaxed and feeling more in control. Your breathing can become regular and slow, helping panic and stress subside.
Benefits of Guided Imagery
- Relaxation
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower stress levels
- Pain management
Reference:
University of California, San Diego. Moores Cancer Center. Complementary and Alternative Therapies For Cancer Patients. Guided Imagery. http://cancer.ucsd.edu/Outreach/PublicEducation/CAMs/guidedimagery.asp

