Overview

Have you been stressed out as of late? Or experiencing chronic migraines and looking for a drug-free method of healing? A guided imagery session with us might be just what you need to achieve overall wellness. Here’s what you should know about the use of guided imagery for functional medicine.

What is Guided Imagery?

Guided imagery, also known as imagery, is a mind-body practice that makes use of the power of your imagination to help improve your overall wellness. By focusing on calming scenarios and images, you’re able to relax, clear your mind, and engage with your body’s innate ability to heal.

A guided imagery session helps you connect with your body and mind, allowing for the activation of all the senses to improve your emotional, physical, and psychological well-being. Guided imagery is beneficial for patients of all ages and all fitness levels. It’s a non-invasive form of psychotherapy that can help improve your overall mood and sleep, as well as reduce pain and anxiety.

What Are the Benefits of Guided Imagery?

Research findings show that as little as 10 minutes of guided imagery can have enormous benefits to your creativity and overall physical health. Regular practice of guided imagery can:

• Reduce blood pressure
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Decrease the incidence of migraines
• Lowering cholesterol and blood glucose levels
• Reduce nausea and pain in patients with cancer
• Improve physical skills and mobility
• Improve the quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis

What to Expect During a Guided Imagery Appointment

If you’ve never been to a guided imagery session, you might be wondering what to expect. A certified practitioner at Emanuel Kontos, DMD will begin by asking you about your current health status, as well as any issues related to your emotional and mental well-being. During the actual session, your practitioner will ask you to find a comfortable seated position and will begin by leading you through a series of relaxation exercises before moving on to visual imagery. Your practitioner will give you vocal cues to help your imagination create a setting in your mind based on what symptoms you’re trying to alleviate.

Typical guided imagery sessions last up to 30 minutes, and while most patients report positive effects after their first appointment, regular practice is highly recommended for continued wellness.

For more information about guided imagery contact Emanuel Kontos, DMD at (727) 939-2099.