Guided imagery

or how to mentally prepare for surgery and other horrible things

The first time I heard the name, Belleruth Naparstek, was in Florence many years ago. I had won an award which allowed me to attend The Creativity Workshop in Florence. One of the workshop leaders told us to write down the name. So I did, and forgot all about it.

Years later I found myself preparing for a life-changing surgery. And up popped that same name again. I'll explain why you need to write down her name. But first, write down her name. Belleruth Naparstek.

Guided imagery is a method that allows you to safely and comfortably take yourself through something difficult and stressful. Like surgery or anxiety. Belleruth developed this method and it is not only highly effective, it is also backed up by scientific examination.

Me being me, I was highly skeptical. I pilot this ship that is me, and that's how I roll. Having someone telling me how to feel is, well, not something I allow. And, here I am telling you to write down this name.

What is it? It's a short audio session with a beautiful and reassuring guided journey into yourself. You lay down on your bed or sit comfortably, and close your eyes, and then listen to the recording.

Does it feel weird? No. It helps to be calm, but if you are feeling anxiety - allow it to be and keep listening - chances are you will feel calmer.

How many times should I listen to it? As many times as you want to and can. I listened to the Guided Meditations to Promote Successful Surgery about 8-10 times before my surgery. Each time I listened it felt better.

How can you tell if it works? You feel calmer and stronger mentally. On the day of my surgery, as we drove across the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco before sunrise, I felt a calm that was not there before. I am confident that guided imagery helped me get to that mental state.

Here's what it says on the prepare for surgery session:

This award winning, highly researched meditation for surgery preparation and recovery,  was found in double blind, placebo-controlled research to dramatically lower pre-op anxiety and pain, speed up healing, cut length of hospital stay, lower use of medication and reduce blood loss. 

Few people love having other people giving them "good advice" so I won't go on for much longer. Just write down the name. Tuck it behind your ear. This is something that worked for me. It might not work for you. And then again, it might. And if you, like I did some years ago, find yourself preparing for a surgery and you are filled with anxiety and fear - give it a try. There are also sessions for a wide variety of needs, including stress and anxiety.

Have you had a surgery? How did you prepare mentally?