Thought for the Day:

Every worthwhile accomplishment,
big or little, has its stages of
drudgery and triumph;
a beginning, a struggle and a victory." Ghandi

Guided Imagery, Inc.
Life Coaching Resource Center
A Leader and Pioneer in Integrative Medicine

Meet Diane Tusek, R.N., B.S.N.

President, Founder of Guided Imagery, Inc.
President, Founder of Life Coaching Resource Center

"You are not alone"



Over the past 30 years, Diane Tusek
has patiently “guided” over 1 million people
with her world renowned researched Guided Imagery CDs
and Life Coaching  

Integrative Medicine

Definition of Integrative Medicine

Integrative Medicine is the practice of medicine that encourages active participation between the medical team and patient.
It focuses on the whole person, the mind, body and spirit.
It's aim is to bring a person to full and optimal health.

Integrative Medicine has many names:

• Complementary Medicine (CAM)
• Alternative Medicine
• Integrative Medicine Therapies
  

One well-researched and respected form of Integrative Medicine is Guided Imagery

Our mission: is to assist others to full body health, (mind, body and spirit) encouraging individuals to use a very powerful resource that we all have within us, at all times:

The power of the mind.

"You can change the direction of your life when you change your mind. 
It's all up to you and your choices."

What is Guided Imagery? 

Guided Imagery is a simple, well researched form of Integrative Medicine.

It's aim is to: ease stress, , reduce pain, and insomnia. It enhances the immune system, and optimizes health and recovery from surgery or medical procedures.

In addition, Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDs has been shown to: promote a sense of peace and tranquility at a stressful or difficult time in a person's life. 

Guided Imagery Meditations can be used by young children all the way up through the elderly.

Biological Proof:

Guided Imagery Research has also shown that stimulating the brain through imagery may have a direct effect on both the endocrine and nervous systems, which lead to changes in immune system function.  The use of a Guided Imagery cd is a simple, low cost, and effective tool for stress reduction and stress management.

The use of Guided Imagery has successfully been used by young children up until and including the elderly.

Numerous Guided Imagery Research Studies have shown that Anxiety and Pain can be reduced by up to 65% within minutes. Guided Imagery Research has also shown that stimulating the brain through imagery may have a direct effect on both the endocrine and nervous systems, which lead to changes in immune system function all the way down to the cellular level.

In addition, it has clinically been shown to:

• release endorphins from the brain to enhance energy, motivation, memory and focus. 
  

Guided Imagery is a simple, low cost, and effective tool for stress reduction and stress management. Guided Imagery has been around for centuries, it has been termed by many words:

• Guided Meditation
• Guided Visualization
• Visualization
• Biofeedback
• Relaxation Technique
• Stress Management Technique
• Guided Meditation
• Integrative Medicine
• Alternative Medicine
• Complementary Medicine

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

Depression in Adults
The Use of Guided Imagery by Way of
Guided Imagery CDs Can Help Reduce Depression

What Is Depression?

Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDs
for Childhood Depression
and Teen Depression

Guided Imagery is a simple, well researched form of Integrative Medicine.

It's aim is to: ease stress, , reduce pain, and insomnia. It enhances the immune system, and optimizes health and recovery from surgery or medical procedures.

In addition, Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDs has been shown to: promote a sense of peace and tranquility at a stressful or difficult time in a person's life. 

Guided Imagery Meditations can be used by young children all the way up through the elderly. Guided Imagery has clinically been shown to redirect a person's thought towards a positive, fresh outcome.

The use of Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery Cds has clinically been shown to enhance self esteem, confidence, energy, and motivation.

In addition, it has been shown to enhance emotional and physical immune functioning.

Childhood and Teen Depression
The Use of Guided Imagery By Way of Guided Imagery CDs
Can Reduce Depression

The teenage years can be tough, and it’s perfectly normal to feel sad, frustrated and, irritable every now and then. However, if the negative feelings don’t go away within a few days or become so intense that the individual can’t manage them properly, they may leading towards depression.

Just like adults, children can suffer from depression. Unlike adults, however, they may not be able to put into words what they are feeling and ask for help. In fact, they are often embarrassed to talk about their feelings.

Often anger is main symptom that something in their lives is not just right. They are confused, frustrated and sad. Too often, they think nobody would understand what they are feeling.

When a child, teen or any individual within a family is feeling agitated or unsettled, the tension is apparent to the entire family. They often erroneously believe that nobody understands them or cares.  Living each day becomes a trial, and family life can become an endless crisis of bitterness, hostility and despair.

Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDs has been shown to have a significant effect on the racing and busy mind.

According to Nancy Schiemelpfening, a world renowned expert on childhood and teenage depression, "the myth exists which says that childhood is always a happy, carefree time in our lives. The truth is, depression is a biologically-based illness and children can fall prey to it just like adults.

The use of Guided Imagery CDs for child depression or teen depression has clinically been shown to be a very simple, and effective way of teaching communication and coping skills that can last a lifetime. Guided Imagery is a simple, valuable and enjoyable tool to allow a person to come to grips with what they are feeling.

The use of our Guided Imagery Products:

Guided Imagery for Children through Adolescence
and
Guided Imagery for Courage, Strength, and Hope for Teens and Preteens

have been of great benefit to children and teens all over the world to help them find balance, peace, and tranquility in their lives.

Our Guided Imagery cds for children and teens are currently used in over 600 schools in health classes to teach healthy coping techniques. It is popular in schools and colleges for pre test anxiety.

Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDS has been shown to have a significant impact on:

• Decreasing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, pain, and insomnia.
• Pediatric surgical preparation and post operative recovery after surgery or medical procedures.
• Enhance self confidence, coping skills
• Decrease insomnia
• Decrease pain by 65%

The Guided Imagery cds teach strategies to help children and teens come to grips with their emotions and gives them an outlet to move forward in their lives.

Children and teens are taught resiliency and self confidence, as well as how to take responsibility for their thoughts, behaviors, and actions. They are able to relax and focus on the present moment and all the special blessings that it brings.

Click here to view our Guided Imagery Products

Guided Imagery by way of
Guided Imagery CDs for Post Part um Depression, Premenstrual Symptoms, Seasonal Affective Disorder

Guided Imagery is a simple, well researched form of Integrative Medicine.

It's aim is to: ease stress, reduce pain, and insomnia. It enhances the immune system, and optimizes health and recovery from surgery or medical procedures.

In addition, Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDs has been shown to: promote a sense of peace and tranquility at a stressful or difficult time in a person's life. 

Postpartum depression is depression after the birth of a baby. Between 10 and 15 percent of women who give birth are clinically diagnosed with this form of depression.

Brooke Shield recently came forward and published a book about her personal post part um depression story. (Postpartum psychosis, which is sometimes confused with postpartum depression in the media, is a rarer and much more serious mood disorder that requires immediate medical care.)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) refers to depressive symptoms that occur about one week prior to menstruation and disappear after you menstruate.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) (aka: Winter Depression).


Guided Imagery by way of a Guided Imagery cd has been a valuable tool with those suffering with depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder. (SAD ).

Click here to view our Guided Imagery Products

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

There are Countless Guided Imagery Benefits:

• Guided Imagery releases positive chemicals in your brain that strengthen your immune system (endorphins) and releases harmful toxins in your body.  It has also shown to increase your “fighting cells” in your body (T cells) to fight off infections, and diseases.  It has been clinically shown to boost immunity.
  
  
• Countless Guided Imagery Research has shown that It does decrease pain naturally (endorphins), decreases anxiety and allows your body to settle down, relax and even sleep more soundly.
  
  
• Guided Imagery / Guided Meditation can have some remarkable effects.  Change will occur. Just remember, change is good.  It is a natural bridge towards growth.
  
  
• Don’t put effort into what you experience in your Guided Imagery Visualization Process, rather just go with the flow.

Guided Imagery has been shown to promote wellness and optimize overall health. 

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

Life Coaching

Meet Diane Tusek.
President, Founder of Guided Imagery, Inc.
President, Founder, Life Coaching Resource Center

"You are not alone"



Over the past 30 years, Diane Tusek has patiently
“guided” over 1 million people with her soothing,
magical voice and calming words. 

Diane’s years of experience as “Life Coach” has set the international "standard of excellence" in the field of Guided Imagery, and Stress Management for personal and professional use.

What is Life Coaching?

"The best teachers are the ones that guide us to the solution *not* immediately jump in and solve the problem for us. The best solutions are the ones that we find and implement ourselves.

Think about it, If a problem is solved "for you", then it does NOTHING for your self-confidence or self belief.  Whereas, if you feel like you've solved it yourself, then you feel a real sense of achievement. 

A life coach works with you in the form of support, encouragement and "guidance" towards working towards your solution. They will not solve the problem for you.This is one of the key factors towards not only achieving your goals, but gaining a sense achievement and self respect in the process.". --- Noel Jones

le step will make a HUGE difference to your self-confidence
and self belief, and these are the things we *know* are very important to achieving your goals.

Life Coaching is a process and partnership with clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment. A coach is a facilitator, motivator and an unconditional 100% supporter. They inspire an individual to develop their own personal template to work towards achieving their goals.

"...proper planning and goal setting enhances performance by 78%." - - - - - -Sports Psychology – the Will to Win is published by Electric Word plc, publishers of the Peak Performance newsletter, Sports Injury Bulletin and Successful Coaching

Life Coaching is a process and partnership with clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

A coach is a facilitator, motivator and an unconditional 100% supporter.

They inspire an individual to develop their own personal template to work towards achieving their goals.

Their approach, "Think Smarter" has been used by athletic coaches for decades:

"The key principles of goal setting:

Specific – Indicate precisely what is to be done. Avoid vague alternatives
Measurable – You should be able to quantify your goal
Accepted – Goals must be accepted as worthwhile, realistic and attainable
Recorded – Write your goals down. This is the basis of a contract with yourself
Time-constrained – Set specific time limits
Evaluated – Monitor your progress regularly
Reversible – Goals can be reset continually as needed

Life is a roller coaster of ups and downs. Human growth is a process of experimentation. It is a series of trials, and errors. The downs in life are actually more valuable than the successes."

The key is the awareness of the lesson learned, as well as the desire to work towards a fresh and new tomorrow.

As Scott Hamilton often says "...falling in life is not the issue,
but choosing how to get up is the key..."

Working with a personal coach can give you a new, fresh and invigoration perspective on life. The aim is to assist the client to accept where they are and to develop a road map to follow as they travel down their path towards growth, self respect and happiness.

What is a Life Coaching?

"Life Coaching is a practice with the stated aim of helping clients determine and achieve personal goals. Life coaches use numerous learning approaches to assist clients with the process of setting and reaching goals in ways that are best for them.

Coaching is not targeted at psychological illness, and coaches are not therapists nor consultants.They will not tell you what to do. They will not solve your problems. However, they will work with you to identify the unique, inner strengths that you have."

Your coach is your sounding board, your listener and your partner. They accept you for who you are, not for where you are in life. Your coach will encourage you to stay focused on your path. - - Coach Training Alliance and The International Coach Association the definition of Life coaching "

A coach's goal is to watch you grow, and to maximize your strengths so that you can live life to your full potential."

Life is a succession of lessons
which must be lived to be understood.
- Helen Keller

"Life Coaches are trained to listen, to be supportive, and to understand. They work with their clients to design and customize a unique and effective plan. Coaches are not there to provide answers for you. They will not put a band aid on a problem. However, they are there to assist you to become aware of the very important resource that you already have inside, and your personal strengths.

Your personal strengths are you foundation towards change. Changes cannot be looked upon as a drive through, it is not instantaneous. It takes thought, planning, effort and much self-evaluation." The International Coach Federation (ICF)

A "Life Coach" is a person that will partner with you move successfully forward in life with courage, confidence and self-respect

Diane Tusek's training and 30 years experience of Guided Imagery and
experience as a "Life Coach" has helped others to:

• Listen to their own "inner voices" and become aware of where they are in life and where they want to go.
• Develop their own self assessment (where are they now in life? What is missing? What changes can be made to become the person that they know that they can be)?
• Establish their own " vision" to recognize what obstacles are in the way and what may be holding them back to reach their goals and dreams
• Continually promotes their clients to move forward with positive energy, drive, courage and consistency
• Work through personal issues by moving forward, not living in the past
• Realizing that all things in life are for a purpose, they are teachers
  
• Develop self confidence and balance in their lives
• Take responsibility for their own choices and understand the consequences
• Dissolve pent up inner emotions and struggles (guilt, anger, fear, sadness) and gain a clear understanding as to how to work through them
• To lay out a blueprint and strategic coaching plan that will enable individuals to gain confidence by mapping out their own goals and ways to achieve them.
• Maintain resiliency and bring balance and happiness back into to their lives
• Become aware of any roadblocks that may be stopping them and find ways to work through them.
• Learn Healthy ways to emotionally Prepare for a Medical or Surgical Procedures
• Recognize ways to become "unstuck" in decision making with Courage, Strength and Hope
• Realize it is time to take charge and move forward in life

Can Life Coaching be the Right Path for You?

Our Coach / Client relationship is based on
you being committed to say yes to the following:

• I am ready to create more balance and resiliency in my life with a Life Coach
• I want to learn how to manage my time more efficiently.
• I want to live my life with respect and dignity
• I want to improve the quality of my life
• I want to rebuild and strengthen my relationships
• I want to rejuvenate myself with positive, purposeful energy
• I am ready to re-direct my life with congruency towards my life's purpose.
• I am ready to identify any roadblocks that may be in my life and preventing me from reaching my full potential
• I am ready to become aware of my personal emotional strengths
• I am willing to work with my coach to design a plan and use my own personal strengths to achieve my goals.
• I want to achieve self confidence and satisfaction in my life
• I am prepared to work with someone with honesty who can help me stay on my right path and track
  
• I am ready to learn healthy communication skills
• I am ready to learn healthy decision-making skills.
  
  In a Coach/Client Relationship. Our clients are committed to take full personal responsibility for their choices. They are willing to accept the consequences of their choices as a part of learning and growing
  
  In addition, they take full responsibility for resolving their own problems. They do not blame others. They look forward to utilizing and building on their own personal strengths to achieve their vision for their future.
  
  Life Coaching can be done on an individual basis in the comfort and convenience of one's own home via telephone conferences.

Coaching Schedules: Our coaching clients usually opt to be coached for 50 - 60 ,minutes, 1-2 times a week, then tapering off, as needed, to 3-5 times per month.

Change is inevitable. It brings new breath to life. Coaches help their clients develop a workable strategy for change. A life coach continues to direct you on your own personal vision for a happy and successful life.

Anyone can change the direction of their lives. It first comes from an individual's desire to use the "power from within".

Change is Refreshing and Imperative to Grow!

Only You Can Create Your Destiny

We work successfully with clients to reflect and ask: :

• What was I doing 2-3 years ago?
• How have I changed? (good and bad)
• Was there a life changing moment?
• What lessons did I learn from it?
• What have I learned in five years about me?
• What challenges did I face?
• How did I work through them?
• Could I have done things differently?
• If so, how?
• Most importantly, how have I grown as a person?
  

Ask yourself:

• Am I happy?
• If not, what is missing in my life?
• Is my life as full and rewarding that I had hoped for?
• What changes must I make for me to find happiness
• Who do I want to be as a parent, friend, family member?
• How is it that I want to be remembered?
• What do I want my legacy to be?
  
  Life is an endless journey of lessons. It is a life-long learning process.
  

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

A Life Coach works with individuals to assess where they are in life

Together, they collaborate to develop a strategic plan aiming toward achieving the client's goal(s).

"One of the unique gifts of being human
is the ability to create our own destiny."
- Anthony Robbins

Diane Tusek's 30 years of Guided Imagery experience and working one on one with individuals as a life coach can help you to gain a new and realistic perspective on life.

Your goals may take some work. Anything worth while usually does. You can "choose" to take action now. With desire, determination and effort, you can accomplish these goals and reap the numerous rewards. However, you can also "choose" to remain "stuck" and continue to procrastinate and put them off.

In five years from now. You still "be stuck" and be in the same place as you are now. The choice is yours. you are the one in charge. Which path do you want to travel to obtain the vision that you know is right for you?

What is your true intention? We all have a subconscious. Listen to your inner voice. Feel it with all of your heart and soul. Our experience with "Guided Imagery" has helped us "guide" our clients towards their personal "vision".

Remember, only you can control your. Together, as a team, we can create your heart's desires.

"It is not the mountain that we conquer, but ourselves."
- Sir Edmund Hillary

Diane Tusek, President and Founder of Life Coaching Resource Center has 30 years of successful experience.

Diane has always been one to "think out of the box" she radiates congruency in her life and lives by the statement:

"...And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb."

- Kahlil Gi bran

Diane's endless energy has enthusiastically led over 1 million individuals towards personal awareness and elevate their self confidence to work through any emotional or physical challenges.

(i.e. Medical / Surgical issues, Preparation for Surgery, Pain Management, personal challenges and difficulties, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorders, ADD, panic disorders, dyslexia, teenage confusion, Self Harming, Pain Management, Anger management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, (PTSD) etc).

We have successfully worked together as a team with individuals to deal with their situations and challenges at hand and move towards a more successful, balanced and happier tomorrow.

Where you are right now has meant to be a teacher to help you realize it is time to aim towards a healthier, more energetic and balanced tomorrow.Our goal is to listen to your thoughts and work together to strategically map our your dreams and turn them into reality.

Words of Appreciation and Inspiring Testimonials

Several weeks before Dana Reeves lost her courageous fight with lung cancer, she filmed a documentary on PBS titled "The New  Medicine."

Dana stated that one of the things that got Chris through his illness and her with hers was the use of The Guided Imagery CD's by Diane Tusek. Dana was a strong believer in a person utilizing all possible avenues towards full body health.   There is no right or wrong way. 

She also believed that children/teens should also incorporate guided imagery into their coping with the many uncertainties that they are facing:. 

Wayne Dwyer has been intrigued and supportive of Diane's work and research. "... Diane is one person that truly lives her life congruently and with purpose.

Diane is a fire starter and a perfect example of a catalytic change agent!"

Email or call us now for a free over the phone, confidential consultation. Now is the time to take back control of your life or the life of a loved one.

Guided Imagery is a simple, well researched form of Integrative Medicine. It's aim is to: ease stress, reduce pain, and insomnia. It enhances the immune system, and optimizes health and recovery from surgery or medical procedures.

In addition, Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery CDs has been shown to: promote a sense of peace and tranquility at a stressful or difficult time in a person's life. 

Guided Imagery Meditations can be used by young children all the way up through the elderly.

For more information on:

• Guided Imagery CD purchases 
• Scheduling a Surgery Preparation Session
• Scheduling a one on one Guided Imagery Session with Diane Tusek
• Scheduling Life Coaching Assessment and Coaching Appointments
• Lectures, Workshops, Employee/Staff Training
• Initiating Guided Imagery into Hospital, School or Business Setting

Please Contact:
Guided Imagery, Inc.
Life Coaching Resource Center
2937 Lamplight Lane
Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44094
Phone: 440-944-9292    Fax: 440-944-1830
dtimagery@aol.com or web site:  www.guidedimageryinc.com

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

Guided Imagery, Inc.
Guided Imagery Research

The world renown benchmark Guided Imagery Research Study at The Cleveland Clinic (i.e. The Cleveland Clinic Guided Imagery Program) and Washington Hospital Center in the 90's brought Guided Imagery to the forefront for health care, corporations, schools and everyday homes for health maintenance.

Most importantly, Guided Imagery (Meditations) by way of a Guided Imagery CD gives a person back control of their life. They feel a sense of deep relaxation, tranquility, and peace.

Guided Imagery Research has shown that the use of
Guided Imagery CDs May:

• Decrease Acute, Chronic or Migraine Headaches by up to 62%
• Assist those with stress, anxiety and panic attacks by up to 65%
• Assist for Surgery Preparation for adults or children
• Assist cancer patients prior to and during cancer treatments
• Assist those for Medical Procedures
• Assist those dealing with Heart Disease or Heart surgery
• Decrease stress and anxiety up to 65%
• Decrease blood pressure
• Decrease blood sugar (for diabetics)
• Assist in cancer treatments (chemotherapy treatments, , radiation)
• Decrease headaches by up to 62%
• Strengthen the immune system
• Assist those suffering from fibromyalgia
• Decrease side effects of cancer treatments
• Enhance sleep by up to 75%
• Decrease post operative surgical pain
• Decrease pain by up to 65%
• Speed up Wound, Tissue and Bone Healing
• Assist in infertility treatments and coping with infertility stress
• Assist women during the prenatal pregnancy and labor and delivery
• Assist in all types of Stroke or Heart Rehabilitation
• Decrease pulmonary symptoms such as asthma, allergies, emphysema
• Assist with Surgery preparation and pre and post medical and surgical treatments
• Surgical Preparation for Children
• Assist in Grieving
• assist in coping with losses (death, relationships, divorce, job)
• Assist children / teen in coping with issues (ie, friendships, school, tests)
• Assist in coping with self injury or self harming, cutting, burning)
• Assist with eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia)
• Assist with learning disabilities (attention deficit, dyslexia panic attacks,
• Decrease insomnia
• Assist with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.)
• Assist those suffering with fibromyalgia
• Assist with Guided Imagery for Weight loss,
• Assist with Guided Imagery to Stop Smoking or Guided Imagery for Weight loss
• Assist with Obesity, Weight Loss and Bar iatric Surgery
• Enhance Sports Performance
• Decrease Season Affective Disorder (SAD)
  

Here is just a quick overview of results of a variety of Guided Imagery Research Studies. (For more detail see below as well as our Guided Imagery Research Packet).

Hot off the Press Guided Imagery Research:

Trakhtenberg ED. The effects of Guided Imagery on the immune system: a critical review. International Journal of Neuroscience. 2008 Jun;118(6) pgs 839-55.

Researchers at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio found that people with cancer who used guided imagery while receiving chemotherapy felt more relaxed, better prepared for their treatment and more positive about care than those who didn't use the imagery technique.

Several studies suggest by Kekolt and Blazer at Ohio State as well as Danish researchers indicated that imagery can boost the immune system significanly Danish researchers found increased natural killer cell activity among ten college students who imagined that their immune systems were becoming very effective. Natural killer cells are an important part of the immune system because they can recognize and destroy virus-infected cells, tumor cells and other invaders.

Researchers at Pennsylvania State University in University Park, Pa and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio found that seven people who suffered from recurrent canker sores in their mouths significantly reduced the frequency of their outbreaks after they began visualizing that the sores were bathed in a soothing coating of white blood cells.

Imagery can also help alter menstrual cycles and relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. In a preliminary study, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston found that 12 of 15 women, ages 21 to 40, who used imagery for three months lengthened their monthly menstrual cycles by an average of nearly four days and slashed their perceived levels of premenstrual distress in half. They also reported fewer mood swings.

At the University of South Florida in Tampa, researchers asked 19 men and women, ages 56 to 75, who had chronic bronchitis and emphysema to rate their levels of anxiety, depression, fatigue and discomfort before and after they began using imagery. The researchers concluded that imagery significantly improved the overall quality of these people's lives.

A clinical study at Yale demonstrated that patients suffering from severe depression were helped by imagining scenes in which they were praised by people they admired, indicating a significant boost to their self-esteem.

Visualization and other relaxation methods may produce significant benefits, often by helping to ease pain and lift depression. Research is continuing to determine whether even more spectacular results can be achieved.

A controlled study of fifty-five women examined the effects of imagery and relaxation on breast milk production in mothers of infants in a neonatal intensive care unit. They received a twenty-minute audiotape of progressive relaxation followed by guided imagery of pleasant surroundings, milk flowing in the breasts, and the baby's warm skin against theirs. They produced more than twice as much milk as compared to those receiving only routine care.

In another study, a group of metastatic cancer patients using daily imagery for a year achieved significant improvements in NK cell activity and several other measures of immune functioning.

At Michigan State University, researchers found that students could use guided imagery to improve the functioning of certain white cells called neutrophils, important immune cells in defense against bacterial and fungal infection. They could also decrease, but not increase, white cell counts.

At one point in the study, a form of imagery intended to increase neutrophil count unexpectedly caused a drop instead. Subsequently, students were taught imagery explicitly intended to keep the neutrophil count steady, while increasing their effectiveness. Both of these goals were achieved.

Medical Resource: Holisticonline.com, Mayo Clinic, Penn State Hospital Research web site.

Guided Imagery Research
and Recent Imagery Publications

1. Tusek, Diane, R.N., B.S.N.:  AACN Clinical Issues Advanced Practice in Acute and Critical Care.  Strategies for Implementing a Guided Imagery Program to Enhance Patient Experience.  February, 2000. Guided Imagery for Heart Disease and Heart Surgery has become standard of care in for Cardiac patients (heart procedures or heart surgery) around the globe. The use of Guided Imagery CDs have made a turnaround in the care of the cardiac patient.

2.Ackerman CJ, Turkoski B. Using guided imagery visualizations to reduce pain and anxiety. Home Healthc Nurse 2000;Sep, 18(8):524-530;quiz, 531. The use of a Guided Imagery CDs have been clinically proven in numerous studies to decrease pain, anxiety and provide a sense of relaxation.

3. Antall GF, Kresevic D. The use of guided imagery CDs to manage pain in an elderly orthopedic population. Orthopedic Nurs 2004;23(5):335-340.

4. Gaston-Johansson F, Fall-Dickson JM, Nanda J, et al. The effectiveness of the comprehensive coping strategy program on clinical outcomes in breast cancer autologous bone marrow transplantation. Cancer Nurs 2000;Aug, 23(4):227-285. The use of guided imagery provides a sense of peace and relaxation to the breast cancer patient.

5. Halpin LS, Speir AM, CapoBianco P, Barnett SD. Guided imagery in cardiac surgery. Outcomes in Management & Nursing Practice, 2002 Jul-Sep;6(3):132-7. The use of Guided Imagery CDs has a significant impact on surgical preparation, post op pain, anxiety and overall patient well being for heart surgery recovery. Guided Imagery has become standard of care for many Cardiac Surgery Procedures around the globe.

6. Huth MM, Broome ME, Good M. Guided Imagery (visualization) reduces children's post-operative pain management. Pain. 2004 Jul;110(1-2):439-48.

7. Holden-Lund "Effects of relation with Guided Imagery (Guided Meditation, Guided Visualization, Imagery) on surgical stress and wound healing." Research in Nursing and Health 1998 11(4) 235-244.

8. Mannix, L, Tusek D, Solomon, G: Effect of Guided Imagery (i.e. Guided Meditation, Visualization, Imagery, ) on Quality of Life for Patients with Chronic Tension-Type Headache. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. May 1999, Vol. 39, Number 5. The use of guided imagery CDs for headaches decreased the onset, severity of headaches and enhanced the quality of life. The Guided Imagery Headache Research Study was conducted at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. It has now been established into the The Cleveland Clinic Guided Imagery Program.

9. Oz, M., M.D.  (2000). Quoted in the article, Healing From the Heart: A Leading Heart Surgeon Explores the Power of Complementary Medicine.  Dec. 12.  

10. Oz, M.C., Lemole, E.J., Oz, L.L., Whitworth, G.C., Lemole, G.M. (1996). Treating CHD with Cardiac Surgery Combined with Complementary Therapy. Medscape Womens Health, Oct;1(10):7.

11. Olness, K  “Imagery (self-hypnosis) visualization, meditation as adjunct therapy in childhood cancer.” Am. Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology for Cancer Patients 3 (3) 313-320 (1991). 

12. Tusek, Cwynar, Cosgrove: The Journal of Cardiovascular Management. March/April 1999. The Guided Imagery Research Study for or Heart Surgery at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation (The Cleveland Clinic Guided Imagery Program for Heart Surgery) with patients undergoing heart surgery (cardiac surgery). Patients that listened to the Guided Imagery CDs had a significant decrease in pain, stress and anxiety. Guided Imagery for Heart Surgery revealed that cardiac surgery patients left the hospital two days sooner than the patients that did not listen to the Guided Imagery CDs.

13. Tusek, Diane, R.N., B.S.N..: Catheterization -Lab Digest: May 1999, Vol 7, Number 5. Guided Imagery Research indicates that simple, non-invasive methods, such as Guided Imagery for heart patients (cardiac patients) an opportunity for a temporary "mentally escape" prior, during and after procedures such as cardiac catheterization, angioplasty and surgery. Dr. Riner states that "Guided Imagery for Cardiac patients by way of Guided Imagery CDs should become routine standard of care". Guided Imagery for surgery has now become routine and standard of care for the surgical patient.

14. Tusek, Diane, Church J., Fazio V.: AORN, October 1997. Vol. 66. No. 4. The use of Guided Imagery for surgical preparation by way of a Guided Imagery CD is a simple, low-cost therapeutic tool that can help counteract the fears and anxieties of patients and family members for Colorectal Surgery. Guided Imagery for surgery has made a significant impact on a surgical patient's overall patient satisfaction.

15. Tusek D, Church J., Strong S., Grass J., Fazio V.: Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. February 1997, Vol. 49, No.2. The use of a Guided Imagery CD for Surgical preparation and post operative recovery for colorectal patients showed that Guided Imagery significantly decreased pre and post op anxiety, pain and length of hospital stay of the colorectal surgical patient.

The use of Guided Imagery cds for surgery preparation uses the power of thought to influence psychological and physiologic states. This Guided Imagery Research study showed that the use of a Guided Imagery Meditation CD or Guided Imagery tape prior, during and post colorectal surgery had a significant decrease in pain, stress management, anxiety and narcotic consumption. Guided Imagery for surgery has now become standard of care

16. Tusek, Diane: The Journal of Invasive Cardiology. April 1999 Vol 11. No. 4. This article emphasized the many uses of a Guided Imagery CD in hospitals. It primarily discusses the impact of Guided Imagery for Heart Disease and Guided Imagery for Heart Surgery and Cardiac Surgery. Guided Imagery Research studies have shown that the use of Guided Imagery CDs can significantly reduce stress, pain, side effects of treatments, blood pressure, headaches and strength immune functioning. Guided Imagery for insomnia has also shown to enhance sleep and promote more vivid, peaceful dreams.

17. Riner, R, Tusek D. .: Guided Imagery Visualization by way of Guided Imagery CDs and Other Forms of Alternative and Integrative Medicine - Trend or Aberration? Where Does Guided Meditation Visualizations Fit in Your Cardiac Patient Practice? The Journal of Invasive Cardiology. April 1999.

This article written by Dr. Riner, a clinical cardiologist and President and CEO of a professional advisory and healthcare management consulting firm. It stresses the importance of the use of Integrative Medicine such as Guided Imagery for Heart Disease (Cardiac Disease) and Guided Imagery for Heart Surgery. This article discusses the use of Guided Imagery in clinical practice from the viewpoint of a cardiac physician. Dr. Riner states that the use of Guided Imagery by way of guided imagery cds for Cardiac Patients should be routine standard of care.

18. Wachelka D, Katz RC. Reducing test anxiety and improving academic self-esteem with junior high, high school and college students with learning disabilities. (ADD, ADHD, panic disorders, bipolar disease, autism, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) . J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 1999;Sep, 30(3):191-198.

19. Bennett H, Disbrow E. Mind Body Medicine: How to use your mind for better health. Yonkers New York: Consumer Report Books. 1999.

20. Dossey, B., Guzzetta C. Implications for bio-psycho-social-spiritual concerns in cardiovascular nursing. J. Cardiovascular Surgical Patient Nurs 1994:8(4) 72-88.

21. A 1998 Mayo Clinic study concluded that psychological stress is the strongest predictor of cardiac events. Another Mayo clinic study showed that men who experienced high anxiety were six times more likely to suffer sudden cardiac death.

22. A Harvard Medical School study of 1,122 heart attack survivors stated that those who remained calm during emotional conflicts had half the risk of repeat heart attacks. The use of Guided Imagery by way of guided imagery cds can have a significant effect for cardiac patients. (The Harvard Mind/Body Institute).

23. Lengacher CA, Bennett MP, Gonzalez L, Gilvary D, Cox CE, Cantor A, Jacobsen PB, Yang C, Djeu J. Immune responses to Guided Imagery for breast cancer treatment. Biological Research for Nursing. 2008 Jan; 9 (3): pages 205-14. clengach@health.usf.edu.

24. Dipietro JA, Costigan KA, Nelson P, Gurewitsch ED, Laudenslager ML. Fetal responses to induced maternal relaxation during pregnancy and Labor and Delivery. Biological Psychology. 2007 Aug 31;

25. Ackerman CJ, Turkoski B. Using guided imagery to reduce pain and anxiety. Home Healthc Nurse 2000;Sep, 18(8):524-530;quiz, 531. Guided Imagery has been clinically proven to decrease pain and anxiety as well as decrease insomnia and enhance sleep quality. .

26. Afari N, Eisenberg DM, Herrell R, et al. Use of alternative treatments (integrative medicine) by chronic fatigue syndrome discordant twins. 1096-2190 2000;Mar 21, 2(2):97-103.

27. Ahsen A. Guided Imagery treatment for alcoholism and drug abuse and Guided Imagery for addictions: : a new methodology for treatment and research. J Mental Imagery 1993;17(3-4):1-60.

28. Antall GF, Kresevic D. The use of Guided Imagery CDs for post operative pain management in an elderly orthopedic surgery patient population. Orthopedic Pain Nurs 2004;23(5):335-340.

29. Baider L, Peretz T, Hadani PE, et al. Psychological intervention in cancer patients: a randomized study. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2001;Sep-Oct, 23(5):272-277. The use of interventions can significantly decrease anxiety for cancer treatments and the cancer patient.

30. Baird CL, Sands L. A Guided Imagery pilot study of the effectiveness of Guided Imagery with progressive muscle relaxation to reduce chronic pain and pain management and mobility difficulties of osteoarthritis. Pain Management Nurs 2004;5(3):97-104.

31. Ball TM, Shapiro DE, Monheim CJ, et al. A pilot study of the use of guided imagery C.D.'s for the treatment of recurrent abdominal pain in children. Clin Pediatric Patient (Phila) 2003;Jul-Aug, 42(6):527-532. The use of Guided Imagery CDs for pediatric surgery preparation, surgery and pain management has shown to have a dramatic impact on post operative recovery of the pediatric patient.

32. Baumann RJ. Behavioral treatment of migraine headaches in children and adolescents. Pediatric Drugs 2002;4(9):555-561. The use of a Guided Imagery for Headaches or migranes has been clinically researched and proven to reduce headaches by 62%. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. can be used in conjunction with medicine for Headache Treatments.

33. Brown-Saltzman K. Replenishing the spirit by meditative prayer and guided imagery. Semin Oncology Patient Nurs 1997;Nov, 13(4):255-259.

34. Burns DS. The effect of the method of guided imagery and music on the mood and life quality of cancer patients and cancer treatments. . J Music Ther 2001;Spring, 38(1):51-65.

35. Collins JA, Rice VH. Effects of relaxation intervention in phase II cardiac rehabilitation: replication and extension. Heart Lung 1997;Jan-Feb, 26(1):31-44. The use of Guided Imagery for Cardiac Disease has been clincially proven to enhance the recovery for Heart patients.

36. Crow S, Banks D. Guided imagery: a tool to guide the way for the nursing home patient. Adv Mind Body Med 2004;20(4):4-7. The use of Guided Imagery CDs decrease the feelings of isolation and enhances well being. It also decreases insomnia, depression, and enhances sleep.

37. Esplen MJ, Garfinkel PE. Guided imagery treatment to promote self-soothing in bulimia nervosa: a theoretical rationale. J Psychother Pract Res 1998;Spring, 7(2):102-118. The use of Guided Imagery CDs for anorexia and bulimia nervosa has an impact on the overall self confidence and emotional well being of a bulimia patient. Guided Imagery for an eating disorder is highly effective.

38. Esplen MJ, Garfinkel PE, Olmsted M, et al. A randomized controlled trial of the use of a guided imagery C.D. in bulimia nervosa. Psychol Med 1998;Nov, 28(6):1347-1357. Guided Imagery by way of guided imagery cds is an effective tool to be used along with standard treatment for eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia).

39. Fors EA, Sexton H, Gotestam KG. The effect of Guided Imagery and amitriptyline on daily fibromyalgia pain: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. J Psychiatr Res 2002;May-Jun, 36(3):179-187. The use of Guided Imagery CDs for Fibrromyalgia Pain has been shown to be highly helpful for Fibromyaligia patients in Fibromyalgia treatments. Guided Imagery also decreases fibromyalgia insomnia.

40. Gimbel MA. Yoga, meditation, and Guided imagery: clinical applications. Nurse Pract Forum 1998;Dec, 9(4):243-255. The use of Guided Imagery CDs in hospitals has a significant effect on the overal outcomes of patients.

41. Groer M, Ohnesorge C. Menstrual-cycle lengthening and reduction in premenstrual distress through guided imagery. J Holistic Nurs 1993;11(3):286-294. The use of the Integrative Medicine technique: Guided Imagery cds . for pre menstral syndrome has assisted many women come to a state of relaxation, calm and tranquility within minutes.

42. Gruzelier JH. A review of the impact of hypnosis, relaxation, guided imagery and individual differences on aspects of immunity and health. Stress 2002;Jun, 5(2):147-163. The use of a Guided Imagery Meditation CD has clinically proven to enhance immune functioning.

43. Halpin LS, Speir AM, CapoBianco P, et al. Guided imagery in cardiac surgery. Outcomes Manag 2002;Jul-Sep, 6(3):132-137. The use of Diane Tusek's Guided Imagery CD . for Heart Surgery has had a significant impact on post op pain, anxiety and overall patient satisfaction for the cardiac patient. Halpin has initiated a Guided Imagery Program to model The Cleveland Clinic Guided Imagery Program for Heart Surgery.

44. Hernandez NE, Kolb S. Effects of relaxation on anxiety in primary caregivers of chronically ill children. Pediatric Patient Nurs 1998;Jan-Feb, 24(1):51-56. The use of relaxation techniqes and Guided Imagery by way of Guided Imagery cds for Pediatric patients has enhanced the well being of children and their families.

45. Holden-Lund C. Effects of relaxation with guided imagery on surgical stress and wound healing. Guided Imagery Research Nurs Health 1988;Aug, 11(4):235-244. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. has a significant impact on wound healing.

46.Ilacqua GE. Migraine headaches: coping efficacy of guided imagery training. Headache 1994;Feb, 34(2):99-102. The use of a Guided Imagery CD has clinically proven to decrease the intensity and duration of a headache.

47. Johnstone S. Guided imagery: a strategy for improving relationships and human interactions. Aust J Holist Nurs 2000;Apr, 7(1):36-40. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. has been shown to enhance a person's self confidence, and assist them in enhancing personal and professional relationships.

48. Kaluza G, Strempel I. Effects of self-relaxation methods and visual imagery on IOP in patients with open-angle glaucoma. Ophthalmology 1995;209(3):122-128. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. has been used successfully with Glaucoma surgical patients.

49. Klaus L, Beniaminovitz A, Choi L, et al. Pilot study of guided imagery use in patients with severe heart failure. Am J Cardiology 2000;86(1):101-104. The use of Guided Imagery by way of a Guided Imagery C.D. has clinically been proven to decrease blood pressure, angina, cause vasodilatation and enhance the overall well being of the Cardiac Patient with Heart Disease.

50. Kolcaba K, Fox C. The effects of guided imagery on comfort of women with early stage breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy. Oncology Cancer Nurs Forum 1999;26(1):67-72. The use of a Guided Imagery CD for breast cancer in women dealing with the fears of upcoming breast surgery has proven to be clinically effective. It has become increasingly popular as an adjunct for cancer treatments and cancer surgery. .

51. Kvale JK, Romick P. Using imagery for role transition of midwifery students for Pregnancy and Delivery. J Midwifery Womens Health 2000;Jul-Aug, 45(4):337-342. The use of Guided Imagery CDs for Pregnancy and Guided Imagery for Labor and Delivery has shown to have an impact on the woman's ability to relax, and stay focused on the pregnancy and labor and delivery process.

52. Kwekkeboom KL, Kneip J, Pearson L. A pilot study to predict success with guided imagery for cancer pain. Pain Management. Nurs 2003;4(3):112-123. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. has shown to decrease pain by up to 65%. Guided Imagery is a proven and effective tool for cancer patients and pain management..

53. Lambert SA. The effects of hypnosis/guided imagery on the postoperative course of children. J Dev Behav Pediatric Surgical Patient 1996;Oct, 17(5):307-310. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. for Pediatric Surgery and pediatric surgery preparation has had a dramatic effect on the pediatric patient and their family.

54. Wilson, Strong, Drummer D. The use of Guided Imagery for Pediatric Heart Surgery. 1999;13(3): 249-256. The simple, low cost, no risk tool of a Guided Imagery CD has an effective and worthwhile impact on the Pediatric Heart Surgery patient.

55. Lewandowski WA. Patterning of pain and power with guided imagery. Nurs Sci Q 2004;17(3):233-241. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. has clinically been proven to decrease pain, anxiety and the overall satisfaction of patients for surgery preparation and post operative recovery period and pain management of the surgery patient.

56. Louie SW. The effects of guided imagery relaxation techniques in people with COPD. Occup Ther Int 2004;11(3):145-159. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. for COPD has been clinically shown to have an impact on broncodilitation and relaxation in the COPD patient.

57. Maguire BL. The effects of Guided imagery visualization on attitudes and moods for multiple sclerosis patients. Alternative Therapies Health Med 1996;2(5):75-79. Integrative Medicine.

58. Mannix LK, Chandurkar RS, Rybicki LA, et al. Effect of Integrative medicine i.e. guided imagery on quality of life for patients with chronic tension-type headache. Headache 1999;39(5):326-334. The use of Diane Tusek's Guided Imagery CDs have been shown to be an effective adjunct to the treatment of the Headache patient and Migranes.

59. Marr J. The use of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery C.D. and Music in spiritual growth. J Pastoral Care 2001;Winter, 55(4):397-406.

60. McKinney CH, Antoni MH, Kumar M, et al. Effects of guided imagery and music (GIM) therapy on mood and cortisol in healthy adults. Health Psychol 1999;Jul, 16(4):390-400.

61. Moody LE, Fraser M, Yarandi H. Effects of guided imagery in patients with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Clin Nurs Res 1999;2(4):478-486.

62. Ott MJ. Imagine the possibilities: guided imagery for children, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Pediatric Nurs 1996;Jan-Feb, 22(1):34-38. The use of a Guided Imagery CD for pediatric patients has been shown to decrease anxiety and produce a sense of peace and calm in childrens.

63. Rees BL. Effect of relaxation with guided imagery for anxiety, depression, and self-esteem in primiparas. J Holist Nurs 1995;Sep, 13(3):255-267.

64. Rossman ML. Interactive Guided Imagery as a way to access patient strengths during cancer treatment. Integrated Medicine Cancer Therapies 2002;Jun, 1(2):162-165. The use of a Guided Imagery C.D. for Cancer Treatments has been shown to decrease fears, anxieties, and produce a sense of peace and calm in cancer patients. The use of Guided Imagery has increasingly been an effective adjunct in cancer treatments and Cancer Surgery for the cancer patient. .

65. Sloman R. Relaxation and guided imagery for anxiety and depression control in community patients with advanced cancer and cancer treatments. Cancer Nurs 2002;Dec, 25(6):432-435.

66. Speck BJ. The effect of a guided imagery CD upon first semester nursing students performing their first injections. J Nurs Educ 1990;Oct, 29(8):346-350. The simple, low cost use of a Guided Imagery CD has shown to decrease the level of anxiety for first semester nursing students. It has a profound impact on decreasing insomnia and producing a sense of peace and relaxation. It is also an effective tool for pain management techniques.

67. Spiegel D, Moore R. Imagery and hypnosis in the treatment of cancer patients. Oncology (Huntingt) 1997;Aug, 11(8):1179-1189; discussion, 1189-1195. Guided Imagery is an effective addition to the standard of care for cancer treatments, cancer surgery and the cancer patient.

68. Thompson MB, Coppens NM. The effects of guided imagery on anxiety levels and movement of clients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging. Holist Nurs Pract 1994;Jan, 8(2):59-69. Guided Imagery for MRI

69. Troesch LM, Rodehaver CB, Delaney EA, et al. The influence of a guided imagery CD on chemotherapy related nausea and vomiting. Oncol Nurs Forum 1999.;20(8):1179-1185.

70. Tusek Diane , Church JM, Fazio VW. Guided imagery for surgery preparation as a coping strategy for surgical patients. AORN J 1997;Oct, 66(4):644-649.The use of a Guided Imagery CD for surgery preparation had a significant impact on decreasing anxiety, stress, pain and post operative recovery. It is an effective tool to be used along with standard pain management techniques. . The Cleveland Clinic Guided Imagery Program issues a complementary Guided Imagery C.D. to all Cardiac Surgical Patients.

71. Tusek DL, Church JM, Strong SA, et al. Guided imagery: a significant advance in the care of patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery. Dis Colon Rectum 1997;40(2):172-178. Guided Imagery for Surgery Preparation and Post Operative Recovery. The use of a Guided Imagery Meditation C.D. is effective in surgery preparation and post operative recovery and patient satisfaction along with pain management.

72. Tusek DL, Cwynar RE. Strategies for implementing a guided imagery program to enhance cardiac surgery experience. AACN Clin Issues 2000;Feb, 11(1):68-76. The Cleveland Clinic Guided Imagery Program for Heart Surgery delivers a complementary Guided Imagery CD to all Heart Surgery patients prior to Cardiac Surgery.

73. Wichowski HC, Kubsch SM. Increasing diabetic self-care through guided imagery. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery 1999;Dec, 5(6):159-163. The use of a guided imagery visualization C.D. has clinically been proven to decrease blood sugar levels and provide relaxation.

74. Yip KS. The relief of a caregiver's burden through guided imagery, role-playing, humor, and paradoxical intervention. Am J Psychother 2003;57(1):109-121. The use of a Guided Imagery CD for caregivers has been shown to provide healthy boundaries and provide as sense of relaxation for caregivers. Guided Imagery Techniques are highly encouraged for Health Care Providers.

75. Holpit. Guided Imagery is an effective treatment for individuals suffering from addictions and self harming behaviors such as (smoking, weight loss, self harming, cutting, bulemia, anorexia nervosa.) AACN Clin Issues 2001.

76. Rossman ML. Interactive Guided Imagery as a way to access patient strengths during cancer treatment. Integrated Medicine Cancer Therapies 2002;Jun, 1(2):162-165. The use of a Guided Imagery cd for Cancer Treatments has been shown to decrease fears, anxieties, and produce a sense of peace and calm in cancer patients. The use of Guided Imagery has increasingly been an effective adjunct in cancer treatments and Cancer Surgery for the cancer patient.

77. Trakhtenberg ED. The effects of Guided Imagery on the immune system: a critical review. International Journal of Neuroscience. 2008 Jun;118(6) pgs 839-55.

78. Catlett JA Stress Managment Study: Pregnant Adolescents Using Guided Imagery. Conclusion Pregnant Adolescents reduced depression, anxiety and stress scores after listening to Diane Tusek's Prenatal/Pregnancy Guided Imagery CD.

79. Garfinkel PE, Olmsted M, Gallop RM, Kennedy S. A randomized controlled trial of guided imagery in people with anorexia and bulimia nervosa .Psychol Med 2008. Nov;28(6):1347-57. The study revealed a 74% decrease in purging by those individuals who used the guided imagery cds.

80. Patterson DR, Wiechman SA, Jensen M, Sharar SR.Hypnosis imagery delivered through immersive virtual reality for burn pain and burn dressing changes for the burn patient. . : A clinical case series. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis. 2006 Apr; 54 (2): pages 130-42. davepatt@u.washington.edu

81. Richardson J, Smith JE, McCall G, Richardson A, Pilkington K, Kirsch I. Hypnosis for nausea and vomiting in cancer chemotherapy: a systematic review of the research evidence. European Journal of Cancer Care (Engl). 2007 Sep;16 (5): pages 402-12. janet.richardson@plymouth.ac.uk.

82. Wyatt G, Sikorskii A, Siddiqi A, Given CW. Feasibility of a reflexology and guided imagery intervention by way of a guided imagery cd during chemotherapy: results of a quasi-experimental study. Oncology Nursing Forum. 2007 May;34 (3): pages 635-42. gwyatt@msu.edu

83. Wachelka D, Katz RC. Reducing test anxiety and improving academic self-esteem in high school and college students with learning disabilities by way of relaxation techniques and guided imagery cds. Journal of Behavioral Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry. 1999 Sep;30 (3): pages191-8. The use of guided imagery and relaxation showed significant reduction in test anxiety on the TAI, as well as improvement in study skills and academic self-esteem, as measured by the Survey of Study Habits and Attitudes, and the school scale of the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory.

84. Esplen MJ, Garfinkel PE, Olmsted M, Gallop RM, Kennedy S. A randomized controlled trial of guided imagery in bulimia nervosa.Psychol Med 1998 Nov;28(6):1347-57. The use of guided imagery by way of a guided imagery cd is an effective treatment for bulimia nervosa.

85. Domar AD, Clapp D, Slawsby EA, Dusek J, Kessel B, and Freizinger M. Impact of group psychological interventions on pregnancy rates in infertile women. Fertility and Sterility, 2000 Jul;74(1):190 The use of integrative therapies significantly increased fertility rates compared to the control group.

86. Ginandes CS, Rosenthal Dl. Using hypnosis to accelerate the healing of bone fractures: a randomized controlled pilot study. Alter Ther Health Med. 1999 Mar; 5(2):67-75 Clinical results showed the guided imagery group that used a guided imagery tape significantally improved wound healing than the control group. Results showed reduction of swelling, simimulation of tissue grouth, mobility and enhanced bone strength than the control group.

87. Oman D, Shapiro SL, Thoresen CE, Plante TF.  The use of meditation and imagery decreases stress and supports forgiveness among college students: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Am. College Health.   2008 Mar-Apr; 56 (5): pages 569-78.

Guided Imagery Research articles available in a packet for $45.00.
In addition, all Guided Imagery CDs
purchased along with the Guided Imagery Research Packet
are discounted to $10.00 each.

Our Guided Imagery Research Packet
is a collection of current leading research articles
about the use, implementation and effects of
Guided Imagery Meditations.

Most of these imagery articles have been published
in leading medical or surgical journals.
This packet has been carefully constructed
and includes a wealth of information on Guided Imagery

Some of these articles are otherwise only available through paid subscriptions to medical journals or archives such as PubMed.

If interested, you may purchase the 80+ page packet on on line.

Click here to view our Guided Imagery Products including our Research Packet

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

Guided Imagery Research articles available in a packet for $45.00.
In addition, all Guided Imagery CDs
purchased along with the Guided Imagery Research Packet
are discounted to $10.00 each.

Our Guided Imagery Research Packet
is a collection of current leading research articles
about the use, implementation and effects of
Guided Imagery Meditations.

Most of these imagery articles have been published
in leading medical or surgical journals.
This packet has been carefully constructed
and includes a wealth of information on Guided Imagery

Some of these articles are otherwise only available through paid subscriptions to medical journals or archives such as PubMed.

If interested, you may purchase the 80+ page packet on on line.

Click here to view our Guided Imagery Products including our Research Packet

Click here to view our Guided Imagery products

The use of this web site, acceptance of any Guided Imagery information, or the downloading of any information from this site is subject to copyright 2008 material.  For use of this material, please contact dtimagery@aol.com

We appreciate the commitment to honor the rights of creators of the work and effort of this site as intellectual property.

Childhood and Teen Depression
Adult Depression
The use of Guided Imagery CDs Can Help Depression Symptoms

(Adult Depression Scroll Down to bottom of this web page)

Childhood and Teen Depression:

The teenage years can be tough, and it’s perfectly normal to feel sad, frustrated and , irritable every now and then. However, if the negative feelings don’t go away within a few days or become so intense that the individual can’t manage them properly, they may leading towards depression.

Just like adults, children can suffer from depression. Unlike adults, however, they may not be able to put into words what they are feeling and ask for help. In fact, they are often embarrassed to talk about their feelings. They often think nobody would understand. This inability to talk about their feelings, eats at them leading to frustration, anger and eventually depression.

It is important for the adults around them to understand the basic facts about childhood depression so they can help the child

Going through the teen years is confusing, mixed with expectations of parents, teachers, coaches and friends. They have more activities and homework than their parent's generation. Teens don't know how to identify their feelings in a word and too often turn those feelings into anger, aggression and resentment.

If the feelings are not identified, and worked through, they can lead to depression and a host of negative behaviors. According to the American Society of Pediatric Psychology, over 80% of teens are suffering from depression.

When a child, teen or any individual within a family is feeling agitated or unsettled, the tension is apparent to the entire family. They often erroneously believe that nobody understands them or cares.  Living each day becomes a trial, and family life can become an endless crisis of bitterness, hostility and despair.

Depression is defined as an illness when the feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair persist and interfere with a child's, adolescent's, or teen's ability to function.

Because their brains are not fully developed until the approximate age of twenty-one, they don't have the proper reasoning skills. They take things very personally, often leaving them in a state of confusion, sadness and despondency.

There are several things that can trigger depression, including loss of a loved one or support person, or even a pet. Children and teens are often uncomfortable expressing their feelings. They often state that they think that something is wrong with them or "that they are crazy."

In reality, most children and teens are experiencing the same things, but are embarrassed to reach out to each other or the support system that is there for them.

feel the same way. They just don't realize it. Often children, teens and adults are confused as to what they are feeling, they are unable to put a word to it. They then often act out their frustrations by exhibiting unhealthy behaviors:

Triggers that can lead to depression can be:

• Anger or defiance toward parents
• Refusing to follow family rules
• Becoming messy or not cleaning up after themselves
• Seeing drug or alcohol abuse
• Seeing evidence of self harming
• Hanging with the wrong peers
• Becoming sexually active and not caring
• Having trouble in school
• Behavior problems
• Drastic mood swings
• Being diagnosed with ADD, ADHD, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

They have very little " down time" to relax and just be themselves. That "down time" is essential for the emotional well being of anyone. They need time just to have fun, laugh and be themselves. Every person, young or old, has to have their own special time everyday, just to do things that they enjoy, without anyone judging them or structuring them.

Discovering a person's passion is essential in the development of a strong, confident and resilient personality.

There are always going to be struggles, but each person has to have a safe and happy outlet to learn to cope in a positive way.

They need to know that they are not alone. And, there will always, unconditionally be there to listen without judgment and be on their side. They need to know that they are not alone and that there is always tomorrow as a fresh new day.

Taking time away from the pressures of daily life, allows them to see things in a new and fresh light.

It is imperative for children and teens to feel comfortable and share their concerns and feelings with someone who will unconditionally listen and care.

Because most depressed teens do not seek help on their own, it is often the parents, teachers, school counselors, and coaches that recognize the symptoms and know that intervention is necessary.

Everyone needs boundaries and direction. We all thrive on it. We need people that care for us to intervene and say "what's up?" And, "do you realize what you are doing, or what direction you are heading?"

We all need to know that there is someone there to show that they care enough to help put us back on the path that is best for us.

According to Nancy Schiemelpfening, a world renowned expert on childhood and teenage depression, "the .myth exists which says that childhood is always a happy, carefree time in our lives. The truth is, depression is a biologically-based illness and children can fall prey to it just like adults.

We might expect that children experiencing extreme stress due to events such as divorce or abuse might be at risk, but even children who seem to have a "perfect" life can suffer from depression:

• Children with an inherited tendency towards depression have a low tolerance for stress.
  
• What might seem inconsequential to an adult could easily trigger depression in these children.

Helping the Depressed Child or Teen:

Helping a child or teen suffering with depression is not just prescribing medicines. It is important that the parents get activity involved with their child or teen with depression. They need a safe, comforting, understanding environment where they can open up and feel loved and understood. They need good communication skills and good coping skills.

Guided Imagery for child depression or teen depression has clinically been shown to be a very simple, and effective way of teaching communication and coping skills that can last a lifetime.

Guided Imagery is a simple, valuable and enjoyable tool to allow a person to come to grips with what they are feeling.

The use of our two CDs, Guided Imagery for Children through Adolescence and Courage, Strength, and Hope for Teens and Preteens, have been of great benefit to children and teens all over the world to help them find balance, peace, and tranquility in their lives.
Picture by Don T. Ianonne

Our Guided Imagery CDs for children and teens are currently used in over 600 schools in health classes to teach healthy coping techniques.

Guided Imagery has been shown to have a significant impact on decreasing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, pain, insomnia. It has a positive impact on enhancing self confidence and overall well being. self confidence, and pain, and can have a significant impact on sleep.

Guided Imagery teaches strategies to help children and teens come to grips with their emotions and gives them an outlet to move forward in their lives .Children and teens are taught resiliency and self confidence, as well as how to take responsibility for their thoughts, behaviors, and actions.

Click here to view our Guided Imagery Products

Teen Stress and Anxiety and Depression

Child Stress and Anxiety and Depression
The Use of Guided Imagery CDs Can Help

Pressures, expectations, and temptations for our children and teens are greater than ever. A poll from The National Association of Pediatrics stated that 85% of teens polled felt that they were stressed out, overwhelmed and depressed at times.

Mood swings, acting out, anger, slamming doors, changes in sleep patterns, grades, personality