Guided Imagery

Now that you’ve gotten an overview of what guided imagery is, we’ll discuss how and why it works--specifically, its ability to elicit the powerful physiological relaxation response. You’ll also be introduced to your inner advisor, your intuitive guide to self-discovery and healing.

This week we’ll be discussing the state of the evidence for guided imagery, how to assess patients, and how to evaluate resources such as apps that may be helpful in certain situations. For this week’s graded assessment, you’ll evaluate a guided imagery reading of your choice and identify important elements. You’ll also have the opportunity to share this critique with your peers. Try to remember what was effective in the reading you chose--this will come in handy next week.

This week we’ll be focusing on the use of music in guided imagery. We’ll discuss what entrainment is, and how it can be used to induce deep relaxation through rhythm. You’ll also have the chance to try your hand at writing your own guided imagery script, and the graded assessment this week will be a self-evaluation of the script you wrote.

This week will provide you with a bit of interesting information on other uses for imagery. Use this week to catch up if needed, then reflect on how you can integrate what you learned into your work or life. We encourage you to take another look at other projects (you can learn a lot from them), discuss the course with your fellow participants, and reflect on how you might use this information in your practice.