Different Theories on How it Works
There are various theories of how imagery produces desired changes. Some believe it works through neurological and biochemical mechanisms. The underlying concept is that the brain does not appear to differentiate between what is imagined and what is real. It seems to handle both types of information in the same way and they both can produce the same physiological responses in the body. On a neurological level it is now known that nerve fibers reach from the brain to the thymus gland, spleen, lymph nodes and bone marrow, mediating the immune response from brain to body. In addition the brain produces chemicals that send messages to the body and cause the body to react in both stressful and positive ways. Chemicals transmit information from the hypothalamus to the pituitary and from the pituitary to the major hormone secreting glands of the body. Chemicals released by nerve cells transmit information to other nerve cells. Feelings, thoughts and images can cause chemicals to be released and these chemicals (serotonin, endorphins, dopamine, epinephrine, norephinephrin, acetylcholine and others) can in turn cause feeling states and physiological and immune system changes through a kind of natural biofeedback loop.

Another explanation is derived from cognitive theory and suggests that changing negative thought patterns leads to a reduction in autonomic nervous system arousal and a decrease in muscle tension, mood disturbances and pain.

Others believe that the benefits of imagery may be due to its action as a coping skill, giving the individual a greater sense of control, hope and empowerment when dealing with a difficult life situation such as illness.

Another school of thought studying the effect of imagery on the experience of pain has postulated that its effect is due to cognitive distraction. This is based on the assumption that if there are competing stimuli, the brain filters out certain signals, such as pain, and attention becomes focused on other information, such as the guided imagery suggestions.

Condition it Works Best For
Guided imagery is used as part of the treatment regimen for a wide variety of health conditions, and research on its effectiveness has been increasing steadily over the past 20 years. University and medical society clinical guidelines include imagery as a therapeutic option for the treatment of acute pain management and obesity. Clinical research points to its usefulness as part of a therapeutic program for the treatment of pediatric asthma, cancer pain, bulimia, breast cancer coping, and post-operative pain, anxiety and recovery.

Content last modified on Mar 24, 2003