1. Relaxing Massage Though Imagery
Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that helps to ease any stress with the goal of enhancing a sense of serenity and peace during a stressful time. It has its principals in the concept that your mind and body are connected and by using all of your senses, your own body will respond as though what you are thinking and imagining is actually real. When combining message with guided imagery, the goal is to bring the person’s mind into a stress-free environment and physical state.
2. Get to Know Imagery Yourself
If you plan on combining guided imagery with sport message, make sure you are familiar with how guided imagery works. Try it yourself and experience the benefits before you attempt to use it on someone else. It may be a good idea to practice on family or friends before working directly with clients to perfect working with the imagery as well as performing the massage.
3. Ground and Center Yourself
The only way you can have a client enter a relaxed state of mind is to make sure you are in one. Practice relaxation techniques prior to doing the session by controlled breathing and getting connected to your center feelings.
4. Allow the Image to Be Seen
By allowing the process to occur slowly, you can lead the person towards the image that you are trying to get them to see. An even pace should be done so as to avoid rushing through the actual relaxation of muscle groups that might have extra tension in them.
5. Not For Everyone
There are some people who will not benefit from this type of incorporation when undergoing a massage. People who are not open minded about a cognitive experience may not achieve the proper amount of relaxation when undergoing imagery. Those people who are open and receptive to allowing guided imagery to take place will have a wonderful chance to participate in their own healing process and to relax much more while undergoing massage therapy.
