Healing with Creative Mental Imagery
Mental imagery, or visualization, has long been known as an effective method for creating change for one’s mental state, emotional or physical health. Whether it’s counting sheep to fall asleep, or imagining a peaceful scene to relax, we’ve all employed our own version of guided imagery. At its best, mental imagery can promote healing in a way that avoids medications and surgery, and empowers the patient with life long skills to heal themselves.
Recently we came across an important resource for this type of healing: The American Institute for Mental Imagery. From their website, we read: “The American Institute for Mental Imagery (AIMI) is a holistic health center providing transformative therapeutic experiences and education to integrate and optimize physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. AIMI was founded in 1982 … by Dr. Gerald Epstein, a spiritual teacher and pioneering therapist in mental imagery and visualization therapy. We empower individuals to harness their imagination, connect to their inner-self, and take charge of their holistic health.”
Gerald Epstein, MD, was a pioneer in the use of mental imagery for treating physical and emotional problems. His book, Healing Visualizations: Creating Health Through Imagery, is a comprehensive guide to imagery therapy for: the common cold, bone fractures, arthritis, hypertension, headaches, asthma, infertility, depression, pms, anxiety, obesity, and much more. Dr. Epstein passed away in 2019, but many of his videos are still available.