Visualization, or guided imagery, is a variation on traditional
meditation that requires you to employ not only your visual sense, but
also your sense of taste, touch, smell, and sound. When used as a
relaxation technique, visualization involves imagining a scene in which
you feel at peace, free to let go of all tension and anxiety.
Choose whatever setting is most calming to you,
whether it’s a tropical beach, a favorite childhood spot, or a quiet
wooded glen. You can do this visualization exercise on your own in
silence, while listening to soothing music, or with a therapist (or an
audio recording of a therapist) guiding you through the imagery. To
help you employ your sense of hearing you can use a sound machine or
download sounds that match your chosen setting—the sound of ocean waves
if you’ve chosen a beach, for example.
Practicing visualization
Find a quiet, relaxed place. Beginners sometimes fall
asleep during a visualization meditation, so you might try sitting up
or standing.
Close your eyes and let your worries drift away.
Imagine your restful place. Picture it as vividly as you can—everything
you can see, hear, smell, and feel. Visualization works best if you
incorporate as many sensory details as possible, using at least three of
your senses. When visualizing, choose imagery that appeals to you;
don’t select images because someone else suggests them, or because you
think they should be appealing. Let your own images come up and work
for you.
If you are thinking about a dock on a quiet lake, for example:
- Walk slowly around the dock and notice the colors and textures around you.
- Spend some time exploring each of your senses.
- See the sun setting over the water.
- Hear the birds singing.
- Smell the pine trees.
- Feel the cool water on your bare feet.
- Taste the fresh, clean air.
Enjoy the feeling of deep relaxation that envelopes
you as you slowly explore your restful place. When you are ready,
gently open your eyes and come back to the present.
Don't worry if you sometimes zone out or lose track
of where you are during a guided imagery session. This is normal. You
may also experience feelings of stiffness or heaviness in your limbs,
minor, involuntary muscle-movements, or even cough or yawn. Again,
these are normal responses.
