Recently, someone wrote in with a question, asking, “What is meant by active imagery?”

In active imagery we formulate an action to work directly on an area in need of healing and, with concentration, we project that image to do the task.

In choosing an active imagery tool for yourself it is helpful to base it on the stronger of your sentences. If possible, it’s good to combine the senses. For example, I may see a color and also feel its quality—as in a blue, cooling light or a warm, yellow light. You might try imagining a waterfall that can wash away unwanted cells and enhance the image with the sound of moving water.

In practicing active imagery, it is helpful to choose images you are familiar with and that you use in everyday life. For example: a delete button to purge unwanted emotions; a sponge to soak up debris; a broom to sweep away pain; a vacuum cleaner to open vessels; soap that wipes away tumors; a paint brush to change a hot spot to a cool spot; a laser beam to dissolve blockages.

When transmitting the image to a particular part of the body or mind, it is important to be relaxed, focused, and directed. When the image gets to the area in need of healing, surround it with the chosen image and allow that part of the body to soften, open, and accept the image. Do not try to use force; instead be patient and allow the body to accept the healing.

If you allow the image to be sent with anger or anxiety, that same negative energy may counteract the positive healing energy. If you are using negative energy for the image, that may positively affect the particular site you are targeting, yet the negative energy may weaken the rest of the system. The strength of the negative will win out, and the action will not be totally healing.

Did you ever have the experience of stubbing your toe? What happens? You might have been careless, not paying attention to where you were walking. We then blame the toe and say bad things to it. “Darn this toe! Stop hurting!” Or, we insult it: “Stupid toe!” or “I have a bad toe.” I hear people saying that about their back: “I have a bad back.” That does not seem to be the best way to coax our bodies to heal.

Instead, wouldn’t it be better to hold and cradle the toe, giving it love and attention? As whole beings, we respond much more to praise then blame. Love allows us to heal.

You might not be able to physically hold and cradle the part of the body that needs healing, but you can use active imagery to give the same effect. Combine your loving energy with your active imagination for a powerful, wonderful force for good.

Namaste. ❤

❤ Article: Pick a Technique You Love by Nischala Joy Devi

❤ Dynamic Stillness: Meditation Guidance with Nischala Joy Devi CD or Digital Download

❤ The Healing Path of Yoga by Nischala Joy Devi