What is Guided Imagery?
Guided imagery is used for many issues including fear, isolation, depression,
anxiety and pain management. Guided imagery is a way to extend and deepen
the relaxation response. It can be defined as a kind of directed
daydreaming. Guided imagery basically involves imagining, through the use
of all senses - vision, hearing, smell, taste and touch. One of the
operating principles of guided imagery is that the body doesn't discriminate
between sensory images purposefully stimulated in the mind and so-called
"reality." Therefore, with guided imagery the body may respond
as if the images were actual events. For some, sight may be the most
evocative sense they possess, whereas for others it might be touch or hearing.
By using guided imagery, any pleasant experience that is grounded in memory
can be revisited at any time. Stimulating a memory of a walk on the beach
or the sweet smell of flowers can produce a relaxing effect on the mind and
body. It may also be experienced as a distraction from challenging labor
pain.
There are two positive outcomes that may be experienced by implementing the
use of relaxation and guided imagery techniques. First, the mastery of
these techniques may give the individual a sense of control and empowerment in
the face of birthing pain. The second positive outcome results when the
mind and the body are in a relaxed state, resulting in a more pleasurable birth
experience.
Article adapted from Care Lines, Winter 2001.
