Guided Imagery: Anxiety, stress and depression self help

Written By Lotte May
Founder of Comfort Crate & Cancer Advocate

What is Guided Imagery for Cancer Patients?

Guided imagery is a powerful relaxation technique used to help manage the psychological and physical stress of cancer treatment. By using your imagination to create a mental sanctuary, you can actively reduce anxiety and help manage the side effects of chemotherapy in a calm, controlled environment.

How to Practice Guided Imagery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Developing a relaxation practice allows you to navigate the challenges of treatment more comfortably. Follow these steps to find your safe space:

1. Select Your Scene: Close your eyes and imagine a place where you feel completely secure and relaxed. This could be a beach, a quiet forest, or a favourite memory.
2. Engage Your Senses: Experience the scene fully. Picture the colours, feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, and notice the subtle scents in the air. As you immerse yourself, allow your body to relax further.
3. Practice Controlled Breathing: Once settled in your scene, take several minutes to breathe slowly and deeply from your belly. Focus on the stillness of the environment.
4. Establish an Anchor: Choose a simple word or sound—your anchor—that you can use in the future to quickly return to this state of peace.
5. Transition Gently: When you are ready, slowly transition out of the scene and back to the present. Acknowledge that you feel refreshed and resilient.
6. Open Your Eyes: Count to three and open your eyes, noticing the increased sense of calm in your body.

Take Control of Your Recovery: Discover full strategies for managing treatment in The Chemo Side Effect Guide Book.

5 Tips for Using Guided Imagery During Chemotherapy

Mastering this technique takes practice. Here is how to use it effectively throughout your treatment cycle:

• Practice Consistency: Daily practice teaches your mind to access your safe space more quickly during high-stress moments.
• Incorporate Soundscapes: Use recordings of nature sounds, such as waves or birdsong, to help neutralise clinical hospital noises and infusion pump sounds.
• A Tool for Procedures: Use guided imagery during blood tests, infusions, or dressing changes to shift your focus away from the procedure.
• Use a Gentle Timer: If you are concerned about falling asleep, set a gentle alarm so you can fully surrender to the relaxation without worry.
• Focus on Diaphragmatic Breathing: Ensure your belly expands and contracts. Lowering your shoulders helps release tension and can assist in managing nausea and chemo brain.

Relieving Treatment Stress: Mastering your breath is fundamental to managing the emotional aspects of recovery. Explore more techniques in our guide: Deep Breathing Exercises.

About the Author: Lotte May is a Stage 4B Hodgkin Lymphoma survivor and founder of Comfort Crate. She provides patients with practical tools and research-backed knowledge to navigate recovery with more comfort. Read more about her mission.

Further Reading and Support:
• Headspace Guided Imagery

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for support and guidance only. It does not replace the advice of your medical team.