VISUALIZATION

Visualization (or guided imagery) is the regular practice of creating mental images of a desired outcome, for example, shrinkage of cancer cells.

Visualization is a technique developed from motivational psychology. It is used to help patients participate in maintaining their own health. It is most effective when it is repeated 2 to 3 times a day, combined with relaxation therapy and a program of exercise and healthy diet.

The aim is to visualize the desired outcome, not what is happening at the time. Therefore, even if the cancer is spreading, visualization can still be used to create positive attitudes.

Visual imagery is best used as part of an active program to improve physical, mental and emotional health. If stress can suppress the immune system (and there is some evidence that it can), these techniques are a logical adjunct for patients who want to fight their disease.

Active participation in treatment and mobilization of inner resources increases a person’s sense of control and reduces the sense of helplessness that can cause depression. Many practitioners are convinced that these methods prolong survival and improve quality of life.

Effective visual imagery should symbolize:

• Cancer cells as weak and confused

• Treatment as powerful

• Normal cells as strong

• White blood cells as numerous

• White blood cells as vigorous and aggressive

• Dead cancer cells flushed away

• The body free of cancer cells

Patients’ drawings of visual symbols can sometimes reveal unhelpful attitudes to the disease (for example, if cancer cells are drawn as large and powerful, or white cells as small and weak, or radiotherapy as dangerous instead of helpful). Discussing the drawings with the patient can be a useful way of changing negative attitudes to disease.

Mental imagery can be used to:

• Boost confidence in medical treatment

• Reduce pain

• Achieve goals

• Explore feelings and attitudes

• Overcome resentments

The author and publisher have taken precautions to ensure that the information in this book is error-free. However, readers must be guided by their own personal and professional standards of good practice in evaluating and applying recommendations made herein. The contents of this book represent the views and experience of the author, and not necessarily those of the publisher.