Explanation

• The belief is that the connection between the mind and body is fueled by imagery, which is itself not restricted to visuals. For instance, thinking to a tumor, "shrivel and die" will not be effective. Guided imagery therapists believe, however, that it may be helpful in the long run to imagine the cancerous cells shriveling and dying while, more importantly, healthy cells become rich and vital.
  
  

Customization

• In therapeutic sessions, the guided imagery therapist will take an assessment of the behaviors, ailments or trauma the patient has experienced. Also taken into account is developmental history (relationships, family, education and employment), past traumatic experiences, goals and treatment history (medical and psychiatric). Once an assessment is made the therapist and patient create a priority list itemizing specific goals.
  
  Those dealing with mental and behavioral disorders or concerns could work on reducing thinking disturbances and biases to make function more effective. They can work to reduce tension, self-destructive behavior and emotional disturbances while increasing coping skills. Special care should be taken when imagery can invoke high levels of anxiety, such as with asthma patients, those prone to anxiety seizures and severe psychiatric disorders. Therapists claim an alternative strategy that avoids anxiety should be utilized and that therapists should be in contact with the client's medical provider.
  
  

Studies

• Researchers claim success with relaxation techniques to release brain chemicals that can lower blood pressure, anxiety levels and heart rate. The key to this is in relaxing the body. An Ohio State study that had chemotherapy patients using positive imagery found the patients to be more relaxed and susceptible to treatment than patients who did not. Some studies indicate the imagery can help boost immunity, such as a Danish study where students trained to imagine effective immune systems resulted in increased behavior of the vital natural killer cells.