GUIDED IMAGERY AND CANCER

Guided Imagery is based on the theory that one's mind can affect the functions of one's body.  As the mind and body work WITH each other, they influence the body in positive ways.  Stimulating the brain through Guided Imagery can have a direct affect on both the endocrine system and the nervous system, which in turn, can lead to changes in the immune system function.

Clients with cancer have shared with me stories concerning their emotions being so disrupted that they lose the ability to be in control of their lives.  They are unable to focus because they are overwhelmed by tests, next-step procedures and prescriptions.  Family and loved ones who are affected by this, feel helpless.  In these cases, their ability to think has been replaced by total confusion.  When one's emotions are disrupted, the feeling of loss of control takes over.

Guided Imagery enhances the coping mechanism.  Research
on hypnosis and cancer, and the reports from the studies, have shown it to be highly beneficial to the patient.  Guided Imagery and Hypnosis help calm the individual, bringing their emotions back in balance to the degree that they can manage the course of their life, health, and healing.

In order that recovery and healing can take place on all levels, I encourage cancer patients to do integrative work which addresses mind, body and spirit, in order to assist with their fears, anger, anxieties, pain, depression and side affects associated with their diagnosis. The key to the cancer patient's emotional recovery is tapping into the healer within.

Mind/Body practices can be a blessing for cancer patients by helping to:
   - Reduce Stress*
   - Improve Mood**
   - Enhance Overall Health***

The success of their recovery is also determined by the ability to mentally assist their own body during the course of treatment.  Clients expressed feeling more calm, more in control, more peaceful, with a sense of serenity as side affects lessened and the ability to focus returned.  Guided Imagery allows the patient to take responsibility for his or her own healing.

My desire is to assist people in rediscovering their body's ability to heal through Complimentary Alternative Practices.

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* A Harvard study showed that meditation lowered heart rate and blood pressure and reduced stress hormones.
** In Canada, cancer patients reported less anxiety and depression.
*** Cancer patients in Ohio who learned conscious relaxation ate better, stopped smoking, and showed marked improvement in immune function.