Stress management: Doing guided imagery to relax

What is guided imagery?

Guided imagery is a method that helps you use your imagination to direct your thoughts toward a relaxing or peaceful scene. Because of the way the mind and body are connected, when you use your senses to imagine a scene, you can feel like you are actually there. For example, if you are imagining a meadow in the morning, feel the crisp, cool morning air. And as the sun rises, feel the warmth on your face. You may see the dew sparkling in the sunlight, hear birds chirping, and smell the wildflowers.

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1. Guided imagery uses the mind-body connection to make you feel like you are experiencing something just by imagining it.

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Author:	Merrill Hayden	Last Updated: May 21, 2008
Medical Review:	Catherine D. Serio, PhD - Behavioral Health Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
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