FAQ

Mental Imagery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mental imagery?
Did you know that the mind and body respond more strongly to images than to verbal thoughts? Mental imagery is the literal practice of using the imagination to think visually in pictures. Most of the time we consider “thinking” to be a logical, linear process using words. But, we also think non–logically through feelings, image, intuition, etc. Most people use imagery naturally as children – daydreaming, playing imaginary games, and so on – but many of us also do this on a daily basis. have you ever gone into your cupboard, looked at what ingredients were there, and imagined creating a full meal? If so, congratulations, you are already using imagery and the power of your imagination to manifest!
    Imagery works because our brains process images similarly to how it processes reality, and images evoke emotional and bodily reactions that language does not. Practicing imagery leads to self discovery and enables achievement of our intentions. Through imagery we discover our innate strengths, turn our weaknesses into gifts, and work through our growth edges. In the process we establish meaningful relationships, change destructive habits, tap into our creative power, nurture joy, and cultivate abundance for personal and collective good.
    What types of situations can/should imagery be used for?
    • Any physical, emotional, mental or social difficulty
    • To manage the creative process
    • To bring couples closer together
    • To create harmony in the family

          The only known area where it may not serve at first is in the case of schizophrenia. Otherwise, everything is possible.

          Is there a difference between "mental imagery," "guided imagery," or "visualization"?

          No, none at all. All are but different names for the same process. I prefer the name “mental imagery” to “guided imagery” because you do not need another human being to guide you through the process. Although I initially provide imagery exercises, as you become proficient in this simple and powerful technique, spontaneous imagery will arise from within you.

          How can imagery bring about change in our daily lives?

          Our inner images reflect our beliefs about the world. These beliefs spark the birth of our outer reality. The images that we conceive and perceive internally manifest, or are birthed, externally in the world. As you practice imagery you can experiment and see if this is true for you.

          How does imagery work in healing physical ailments?

          As noted above imagery is the mind thinking in pictures. The mind and physical body are mirror images of each other; they are two sides of the same coin. What happens in one happens in the other. If you see yourself healing in your mind’s eye, the healing takes place in your physical body as well.

          What happens if I can't image?

          Most people have a natural capacity to image. For some of us, we may need more practice before imaging comes.

          Here are a few tips to stimulate your capacity for imagery:

          • Look at a picture or photograph of a natural setting for 20-30 seconds then close your eyes and see the same picture in your mind.
          • Remember a pleasant scene from your past with your eyes open, and then close your eyes and remember these images.
          • Use your non-visual senses to evoke images. For example, hear a fish frying in the skillet or the applause of an audience, or glasses clinking. Smell perfumes or essences and experience what happens.
          How often do I do imagery, and for how long?

          Generally, you do imagery 3 times a day: upon awakening, at sunset (or at the end of your workday), and before bed.

          In imagery, less is more, so the shorter the time you stay in an image, the more powerful the result can be. Most imagery exercises are short and take 5-15 seconds to complete, occasionally up to a minute.

          Why do I only practice imagery for a minute or so each day?

          Imagery is like a firework display. You need only a single match to ignite a cascade of fireworks: So for a micro input you get a macro response.

          Like any medicine, you need to repeat it generally three times a day for 21 days. Twenty–one days is a natural cycle of the human body. Research has shown that it takes up to 21 days to break a habit.

          How do you sit and breathe for mental imagery?

          Here’s a short video for how to sit and breathe before and during mental imagery exercises.

          Key points:

          • Sit up in a chair. Keep your back straight and rest your arms comfortably either on armrests or your lap. Place your feet flat on the floor, and don’t cross your hands or your feet.
          • Close your eyes. 
          • Breathe out a long, slow exhalation through the mouth, and follow it with a regular inhalation through the nose (i.e. don’t exaggerate the in-breath). Repeat this breathing sequence for a total of 3 times (often you’ll see in my book “breathe out 3 times” or “BO3X”).  
          • Do the imagery, breathing in your normal pattern/rhythm. 
          • Breathe out once and open your eyes.
          What are the credentials that AIMI's practitioners have?

          Coming soon

          What is dreamwork?

          Coming soon

          What is morphology or face reading?

          Coming soon

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