Imagery is a window on your inner world, for it affects the way your mind codes, stores and expresses information. Imagery is an inner representation of your real life experiences and also your deepest desires. It's the currency of dreams, memories, hopes, plans and possibilities. But it's more than a mere window ­- it's a remarkable tool for making changes in your life. Imagery is the predominant language of the unconscious, and mastering the lingo grants you entry to a powerful, mysterious state --even more awesome than Alaska. With imagery, you can avoid the usual limitations of logical, sequential thinking (an effective approach to many situations, I agree). You are free to think outside the box, to hone in on what's really important.

Oh, and by the way, you get to control a host of physiological responses from pulse rate to immune system function. We all know there are no quick fixes. However, some tools are just more effective, more suited to mastering the job.

Altered States

The altered state is the power cell of guided imagery. It's important to know that we all naturally wander in and out of altered states several times a day, including dreaming, being engrossed in a book and listening to beautiful music. We find ourselves in a state of relaxed focus with our attention heightened and concentrated down to a narrow band of stimuli.

Visualization, Imagery, Hypnosis -- What's the Difference?

Although some people use the terms visualization, guided imagery and hypnosis interchangeably, there are crucial differences.

Visualization is a form of imagery that employs scripted images to achieve a particular outcome, from releasing anxiety and healing illness to sharpening athletic performance.

Hypnosis requires the person to enter a trance-like state that allows suggestions to enter the unconscious mind. There is often the expectation on the part of the hypnotist and the client that the hypnotist will provide a solution.

Guided Imagery is a means of accessing the images of the unconscious mind to help resolve problems, aid relaxation or promote insight. The guide usually follows an imagery script to help the client achieve the desired outcome.

Interactive Guided Imagery includes features of guided imagery and adds a large dose of interactivity to the mix. The guide works directly with images that arise from an individual's imagination. The process works by supporting and exploring the person's own images. The guide facilitates interaction between the client and their images, helping the client to turn those insights into meaningful action.

How Can It Work For Me?

The foundation to all types of visualization and imagery is the relaxed state. You can achieve this in many different ways: focused breathing, tensing and then relaxing various muscle groups, or simply imagining tensions flowing down and out of your body. There are many excellent relaxation tapes available to guide you through the process.

Valerie is a licensed psychotherapist and Certified Interactive Guided Imagery Practitioner. She specializes in the use of imagery techniques to help clients channel their unique resources. She can be contacted at 240-3290.