by Lain Chroust Ehmann
Visualization Athletes have long recognized the power of creating victory in their minds before a big game. So common is the practice that phrases like "mental imagery" and "the zone" have moved into the vocabulary of everyone from couch potatoes to high-powered businesspeople.
Though not a new phenomenon, visualization
What is visualization?
Visualization "is basically creating a picture on the movie screen in your mind," says Lyn Allen, a master certified coach and long-time visualization practitioner in Shreveport, Louisiana. Allen uses imagery to help her clients
How is it done?
Considering its power, visualization is fairly simple. In fact, you may already be practicing the principles of visualization in your everyday life without even knowing it. Whats different about visualization, though, is that youre taking charge of and directing those images.
Experts say visualization can help with anything from relieving stress headaches to helping procure the ideal job. The steps, regardless of the desired outcome, are basically the same.
1. Start with the outcome
If you want to lose twenty pounds, for instance, visualize your new, sleeker physique. "You want to create the final outcome, because thats what you want to reinforce," says Schneider.
2. Be specific
Instead of just saying to yourself, "Im in good shape," be specific about what that means to you. Does it mean you can bench press 150 lbs.? Does it mean you weigh 150 lbs.? Or does it mean you comfortably fit into your oldest pair of jeans? Spend time thoroughly defining your goals.
3. Involve all your senses
Your image needs to be as vivid as possible. Imagine not just what your desired outcome looks like, but what it feels, tastes, smells and sounds like as well. "Bring in all [your] senses, because that makes it perfectly clear," recommends Schneider.
4. Be consistent
It isnt enough to create your image once and expect it to work. You need to consistently revisit the same scene in your mind. Allen says that when she was fighting chronic fatigue syndrome, "I would visualize every day for a month at a time." The more you revisit your image, the more energy youre putting toward your desires
Troubleshooting
If visualization works so well, why doesnt everyone look like Cindy Crawford or Tom Cruise, with a bank account to match? Visualization fails for the same reason diets and exercise programs