Visualization

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Intentional Visualization versus Meditation

Invariably after I facilitate a short intentional visualization exercise during an introductory playshop, people experience calm and clear thinking. Some tend to compare the experience with meditation. Although there are similarities, our intentional visualization exercises have a different context and structure. They are an integral part of Core Interactions Theory, which is impartial to philosophies, while meditation is commonly associated with mystical or religious practices. They do not conflict with each other, in fact the practice of intentional visualizations can enhance meditation, prayer or any other form of connection with what one may call “The Source”. The reason is quite simple as intentional visualizations are designed to clear mental noise and enhance perception.

An intentional visualization has a well defined purpose, which is achieved through thought management. For this reason, an intentional visualization can induce a state of heightened awareness and relaxation much faster than traditional or transcendent meditation, which usually are contemplative. It quickly brings one’s attention into the present moment and physical body, creating opportunities for new information to be perceived and acknowledged.

Before commenting on its applications for personal and professional development, let’s first explore some of the science behind it. Our brain operates in four major frequencies, measured in Hz, or cycles per second. An electroencephalograph machine, or EEG, can measure them. The frequencies are called Beta, Alpha, Theta and Delta. Let’s examine them:

Beta: - This wave-pattern oscillates between 30 and 13 Hz. It is usually associated with mental and/or physical activity. For example, we produce Beta waves during a conversation, watching an active game, reading a captivating story or doing math.

Alpha: - This wave-pattern oscillates between 12 and 8 Hz. It is usually associated with relaxation. When we take several deep breaths we can produce alpha waves even with our eyes open. If we do it with our eyes closed we can induce more alpha waves at lower frequencies.

Theta: - This wave-pattern oscillates between 7 and 4 Hz. It is usually found when we are falling asleep or close to waking up. At these frequencies, it is common to have vivid mental images, or dreams. Theta is usually associated with being almost unconscious.

Delta: - This wave-pattern oscillates between 6 and .5 Hz. At these frequencies people usually are in a deep sleep or unconscious.

Our brain can produce all of these frequencies simultaneously, and we can also train our brain to produce more of a certain type of wave-pattern at will. External circumstances can also influence our brain patterns. For example, if we were listening to classical music, our brain waves would be different from those formed while listening to heavy metal.

I’ve developed a systematic approach to teach anyone the necessary skills to produce and sustain Alpha and Theta waves at will. The goal is to achieve a state of consciousness where we can create and hold mental images while staying fully alert in order to observe their information. This is a powerful skill, which in conjunction with other interventions can re-pattern our brain and transform our lives, thanks to the brain’s neuroplasticity! Using modern neuroimaging techniques, such as fMRI, we can now see how this process works by observing synaptic changes in the brain as one thinks!

As we develop awareness while in Theta, our intuition can increase as well. Theta is a frequency associated with creative inspiration and problem solving, with a state of knowingness rather than thinking, a Eureka state. This is the reason why some may interpret reaching this state of consciousness as having a mystical experience. It can lead one to experience epiphanies, or some sort of self-realization, cosmic connection or aha moments!

Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t take years of practice to learn this skill. I have trained thousands of people through an introductory eight hour class, after which they were able to adapt the process to their own style, beliefs and schedule. It does take consistent practice to be able to identify and re-pattern unconscious information and we don’t need to be in a Tibetan cave to do this. As we learn to tune out mental distractions, our focus increases. The recommended practice is twenty minutes a day, which can be enhanced with additional short practices throughout the day.

Another side benefit of this type of exercise is that it can positively impact our biology as well, from lowering heart beat to producing feel good neurotransmitters and hormones, while increasing well-being and relaxation. It is a simple and effective way to control stress levels and to improve our mood, which in turn can assist the body to heal other imbalances. When used consistently with appropriate affirmations and follow-through, it can assist the brain create new pathways which can shift behavior from a cellular level perspective. It can be used as a therapeutic aid to help in the healing of illnesses, depression, emotional turmoil and physical pain.

Apart from its therapeutic benefits, there are many real life applications for intentional visualizations. In my professional practice, I’ve worked with business professionals, athletes and students who were searching for performance enhancement tools as well as ways to increase self-confidence, self-esteem and awareness. I’ve also worked with teams, both in business and sports, using intentional visualizations, alongside with other interventions to promote team communication, facilitate brainstorming and goal setting sessions, solving problems and improving overall concentration and well-being. It is also useful in the process of recognizing and transforming inappropriate personality patterns.

The Conscious Path approach to intentional visualizations is to integrate them with one’s life processes to promote harmonic change. It is an important tool for those interested in delving deeply into Consciousness as it creates a doorway to new information. It also promotes energy renewal, which can bring joy and fulfillment into one’s life.

Try it out. Take a few breaths, think about a joyful moment in your life, and close your eyes for a few minutes... Or just do the exercise at the top of the page.

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Intentional Visualization

Centering exercise