Inside the OM
Using Guided Imagery
From the book The Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis
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Many survivors have found imagery to be a powerful healing tool.
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You think guided imagery can help you discover inner resources and deal with overwhelming feelings.
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These gentle techniques can help you calm down, create a safe place inside and feel grounded in your body. You can use the same imagery over and over, strengthening your connection with this relaxed, safe feeling.
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Set aside time when you won't be interrupted so that you can settle into an internal space. If it is comfortable for you, close your eyes and allow whatever imagery comes to you bear receptive, and simply allow what comes along using image imagery is about being open to whatever arises.
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Even if guided imagery doesn't feel effective for you the first few times, your experience may change with time and practice. You might find that there are times when nothing happens, times you feel more relaxed, times you fall asleep, and times when images feelings, thoughts, stories, or memories emerge.
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At the end of a session, be sure to leave a little time to transition back into your regular consciousness rather than rushing off to your next responsibility. Journaling your experience can also be very helpful.
Creating a safe place inside.
Guided imagery by Amy Pine.
Often when you've been traumatized, your body no longer feels like a safe place. It feels dangerous instead. So when you bring your awareness inside your body, you immediately want to jump right back out again. Learning to stay present and find safety in your body is an essential part of healing. This guided meditation is one way to begin.