Lesson 25 Guided Imagery

Emotive imagery involves the use of positive imagery to block uncomfortable or anxiety

producing thoughts

Uses of emotive imagery include:

  - Reducing discomfort and anxiety associated with childbirth

  - Teeth cleaning

  - Combination of emotive imagery along with progressive relaxation was effective in

    reducing adverse effects of chemotherapy with cancer patients

  - Reduction of post surgical anxiety for gallbladder patients

  - Receiving injections

  - Coping with minor surgery

  - And, coping with chronic recurring pain

Cancer patients have used emotive imagery to imagine their white blood cells attacking their disease

* These individuals were found to extend their lives past their expected life expectancy

People who employed emotive relaxation were found to be able to on average hold their

hands immersed in ice water more than twice as long as people who did not employ this technique

The use of emotive imagery can be viewed as a cognitive time out

  -A rest and recuperation strategy

  -An R and R strategy so to speak

 Emotive imagery can also be used to:

  - Coping with fears and phobias

  - Coping with depression and sadness

  - Dealing with boredom

  - Coping with stress and problems associated with everyday living

  - Achieving goals

  - Controlling and eliminating bad habits

As with the progressive relaxation activity remember to:

- Lie in a comfortable position

- Dress in comfortable loose-fitting clothes

- And, practice this activity in a quiet environment free of distraction

REFERENCES

Cormier, W. & Cormier, L. (1985) Interviewing strategies for helpers. 2nd ed. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole Publishing Company.