Guided Imagery exercises help you relax by focusing your mind on a calm place or object instead of thinking about stressful situations or daily hassles.

What should I focus on?

The focus of your imagery is up to you. Pick something that is comforting and relaxing. Some examples are:

  • A favorite vacation spot
  • Your favorite place in your home
  • The ocean
  • The sky

Make your imagery as real as possible. To do this, incorporate all of your senses into your imagery. The more details you add, the more real and effective the imagery will be.

How long should the imagery last?

  • The length of the imagery exercise is up to you.
  • Start by doing the exercise for 5 minutes.
  • Each time you do the exercise, make it a little longer.
  • As you practice, your guided imagery will get longer with no added effort.

What if my mind wanders?

  • It is normal for your mind to wander during imagery exercises.
  • Don’t worry. Just re-focus on the imagery. 
  • Your thoughts will wander multiple times.
  • Each time, just re-focus on the imagery.
  • The more you practice, the less your mind will wander.

How can I make my imagery more effective?

  • Combine a deep breathing exercise with your imagery.
  • At first, it may be difficult to do both at the same time.
  • With practice, combining the deep breathing and guided imagery exercises may become easier.

Become more stress-free with guided imagery!