Mindful Relaxation
Brain-imaging studies have shown that what we imagine ourselves doing affects our brain and biochemistry exactly as if we were really doing it.
Many Olympic athletes visualize themselves performing with excellence. Give it a go, and visualize yourself moving through your day or getting a project finished with absolutely no difficulties.
You can also harness this brain power to set yourself up for optimal rest.
Ready to go to sleep? Get in bed. Adjust the bedding and your pillow. Close your eyes and visualize a comforting and peaceful place. Now add sounds … and smells. Feel the gentle sun warm your skin … enjoy a light breeze … let your problems melt away in your calm, relaxing, safe place.
Here’s a script you can use to create your own relaxing visualization:
Imagine a peaceful place. It can be a place you’ve been before, or a place in your imagination. Breathe deeply and imagine this calm and gentle place. This is a good place — this is a safe place.
Now put yourself into the scene. Picture yourself in this calm and gentle place. You are so relaxed in this good place, in this safe place. You are so relaxed.
Take a deep breath and inhale the sweet air. Let it fill your lungs, let it flow through your body relaxing you.
Your stress is melting away in this tranquil, safe place. It’s a warm day and the sun is shining. Feel the warmth, feel the sun. You are content — you are at peace — you are smiling.
The more you do this exercise, the easier and quicker it will work for you. You can read about other relaxation techniques in the book Sleep Secrets.
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