How Guided Imagery Works (cont'd)

How guided imagery actually communicates with the body has been under study since imagery was first reported in the literature in 1969. Imagery was found to affect the autonomic nervous system by processing whatever information (intellectual and emotional) is already stored in memory for each image.

 

Scientists now believe that memories are stored like a hologram within the body. And the mind, with its abundant neuropeptides, is conceivably located in every cell of our body.

 

Professionals have begun to look closer into determining which factors in imagery are affecting a positive outcome. Since stress can have adverse effects on the immune system, it was found that imagery can offer mental and emotional coping strategies that can increase natural killer cell (NK) and T-cell activity (immune cells)

Scientists have found that the body seems to heal itself best when the deepest brainwave states are activated. The four brainwaves are known as beta, alpha, theta, and delta.

 

During the wakeful, conscious state, we mostly use our highest frequency brainwaves, the beta waves.

 

Alpha waves are the next lower frequency of brainwaves, involved with those flashes of images you might experience when daydreaming and fantasizing. The alpha state is considered to be the bridge between the conscious and deeper subconscious states, where “speaking” to the body through guided imagery begins.

 

Strengthening the immune system

Theta waves are next in decreasing frequency. They appear to hold a profusion of memories and emotions while governing our attitudes, beliefs, expectations, and behaviors. Theta waves are activated only during sleep and deeper states of meditation (i.e. guided imagery), and often involve images of down, through, and into various passageways, as well as formulating abstract thoughts.

 

The lowest frequency brainwaves, also only active during sleep and deeper states of meditation, are called delta waves. When delta waves are active, the most restorative body functions are being tapped, along with feelings of intuition and great empathy.

 

It is believed that the most healing state is when a person is using all four types of brainwaves at once. This state of mind appears to be the most effective for bringing about whatever physical changes are linked to the body’s natural abilities to heal. Other important attributes known to increase the ability to improve this healing state are:

1.      Some bare basic of understanging for the anatomical and physiological aspects of the healing process.

2.      A positive outlook [Surround yourself with positive people, listen to encouraging positive stories vs. negative outcomes whenever possible].

3.      See any invading cells as weak and white blood cells as strong. It is better to use an image that fits into your value system as something you can easily dispose of. Use an image that is weak, confused, unintelligent, and easily broken down by whatever image you incorporate as your white blood cells.  [Commit to daily journaling in order to intensify these images].

4.      Practice — one of the most important factors of all when affecting the measurability of changes in blood chemistry! By practicing the art of mental imagery, a person is able to become more proficient in affecting such internal response factors as increasing white blood cell counts. However, the paradox of this is that it also appears to be necessary to relax and not “try too hard” as well! [So commit to daily guided imagery … and be sure to relax and enjoy whatever time you give it. In other words, NO self-criticism of any kind]!

Your subconscious mind is actually practicing imagery continuously anyway, but the intent of imagery and journaling is to slow down and assimilate all your brainwaves, focusing those thoughts into images that more positively direct your pathway towards healing and inner health.

 

 

————— Sources of more information ———————

 

This mind-body information is taken directly from the integrative cancer program of guided imagery called the Cancer Involvement Program, which provides a holistic and alternative cancer treatment designed to coincide with conventional treatments. Incorporating holistic and alternative methods can help you to strengthen the immune system during the rigors of chronic chemo toxicity or radiation cancer treatments. This program can offer the experience of an alternative cancer treatment center in the convenience of your own home. Find out more about this publication by following this link:

Cancer Program

 

If you prefer to start with something more basic for understanding guided imagery and the ability of the mind to influence health, the best book around would be:
YOUR BOIND

 

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For a complete list of guided imagery programs available:
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guided imagery programs