"What is the difference between imagery, visualization and meditation?"

They are all effectively the same when they are guided.  They usually all begin with deep breathing and perhaps a form of progressive relaxation.  The imagery usually has a focus to facilitate relaxation, access the imagination and create mental images to bring about a desired change in one's physical or emotional state.  The "guided" part simply means that the images are described or suggested by a therapist or leader.

 

"Is it difficult to do imagery?  I had a tape before and I'm not sure it worked."

Imagery is not difficult to do, especially when someone else is doing the guiding and you are free to just imagine.  Images and visions are the stuff of day-dreams, creativity and prayer.  People use imagery techniques every day, but they rarely take advantage of them intentionally for healing.  Some generic tapes don't touch a person's uniqueness and may not be as effective as customized imagery.  Custom imagery usually inlcludes some of the clients own imagery, and that allows for a deeper level of relevance and connection.

"What can guided imagery be used for?"

There is a wide range of uses for guided imagery that can be loosely broken down into areas of Positive Change, Healing and Growth.  Here are just a few examples:

• Enhance body's natural ability to heal:

                         Asthma, Allergies, Cancer, Chronic Pain, Coronary Disease,

                   IBS, Infertility, Insomnia, Medical Procedures and more.

• Eliminate smoking,weight problems, phobias
• Enhance self-confidence, athletic performance, study habits, test performance,and creativity.
• Reduce and manage stress and anxiety
• Develop internal resources - Tools for Life