Guided relaxation techniques are processes designed to transport you out of your current space and into a new space of inner calm, peace and tranquility. A natural byproduct of guided relaxation occurs when the muscles, ligaments and tendons go loose and limp, thereby creating the relaxation response—the perfect state for healing. Once the relaxation response is triggered, one immediately notices the physical benefits such as a decrease in blood pressure, a lower respiratory rate and a slower pulse rate. An increase in alpha brain wave activity is associated with deep relaxation and makes for great access to what I call "the intuitive mind"—where healing is most likely to take place. The relaxation response is neurologically hard-wired. Therefore, you don't have to "believe" it will work to experience the benefits. The relaxation response happens in the body and not in the mind.

Improving Quality of Life through Guided Relaxation

Events like being diagnosed with cancer are stressful. Research has shown the stress of cancer diagnosis and treatment suppresses the immune system. In order to optimize the recovery process, it's of vital importance to incorporate a program of stress reduction and relaxation into one's recovery program. Minimizing anxiety and stress through relaxation optimizes the immune system. Guided relaxation helps patients let go of the fear, stress and anxiety associated with their illness and, most importantly, gives them the power of possibility thinking. These processes also use advanced visualization designed to activate the immune system. People experience several negative emotional states when they're diagnosed with a disease. Guided relaxation and visualization help patients deal with the following emotional states associated with diseases like cancer:

• Denial - The state of denial can cause people with an illness to continue unhealthy habits that hinder the healing process.
• Fear - Fear can be harmful if it becomes more .
• Anxiety - Living in a high anxiety state is extremely stressful to the body and is certainly not conducive to healing.
• Anger -  When facing a severe illness, going through short lapses of anger is natural. Anger left unchecked, however, might cause you to lash out at those who are only trying to help.
• Frustration - Getting overly frustrated can make you want to just give up. You can overcome frustration when you learn to set daily and weekly emotional goals for healing.
• Negative thinking - Walking around in a cloud of negative thoughts can compel you to push away your support system.
• Nausea - Nausea can prevent patients from eating healthy foods, getting exercise and drinking plenty of water. While the body may have plenty of reasons for nausea, the relaxation response can help patients relax it away.
• Pain - Intense or chronic pain can cause one to stop interacting with life, which is never conducive to healing. The relaxation response can increase the body’s own natural analgesia.

Most people who regularly take the time to relax with creative visualization and imagery processes report a number of side-benefits, which include increased energy, more fulfilling relationships, better job satisfaction or a more successful career, a sense of purpose, and last, but certainly not least, an enhanced ability to handle and manage stress.

This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. As always, check with a doctor before starting any treatment program. For more information on using guided relaxation and creative visualization to aid healing and enhance your quality of life, call Positive Changes at 1-877-POSITIVE.