Guided Imagery Exercise 1:

Of Course You Can Do Imagery!

BY ARLENE HARDER, MA, MFT

Illustration for Guided Imagery Class 1

All you need to do to with this piece is to just read it a couple times and then close your eyes to discover your wonderful ability to do imagery.

Note: If you haven't taken the class, I recommend you first read that or Using Guided Imagery Exercises.

As you prepare to have a little fun with imagery, sit back, relax, close your eyes and take a deep breath, relaxing your body even more as you breath out. . . . Returning to your normal breathing, imagine that the door to your room is open and as you turn toward the doorway, you notice a small animal standing there. It can be any kind of animal in the whole world! Even if you wouldn't want to get anywhere near the adult animal, you feel perfectly safe with this small and delightful creature. . . .

Notice what it does to get your attention. . . . If you sense that it would like to come closer, invite it into the room. . . What do you imagine happens next? . . . Without judging whether you are doing this "right" or "wrong," simply let yourself experience this fantasy as thoroughly and enjoyably as you can -- for as long as you would like. . . .

When you are ready, say good-bye to the animal and send it out of the room for now, knowing that in your imagination you can invite this small creature to come and visit any time you wish. . . . Take another deep breath and stretch your arms and legs as you reflect on this unusual interlude in your day. Then open your eyes and smile, for you have just taken a small journey into your inner world, where many delights and resources await you.

After you have finished the exercise and have chosen a symbol that represents your imagination, please go to the next class, Tapes Can Be Your Guide or return to Imagery and Meditation Classes Index.

© Copyright 1997, Arlene Harder, MA, MFT