Guided Meditation and
Mind-Body Health

Physicians and psychologists have been aware for many years that emotional states and psychological stress have profound effects on physical health.  The concept of “mind-body intervention” is based on the idea that our feelings, thoughts, and emotions have an affect on our biological functioning, and vice versa.  Seligman, a well-known researcher in the field of psychology conducted a series of studies in which two groups of dogs were exposed to electric shock.  One group was provided a means of escape from the shock, and one was not.  He discovered that the dogs who received the shock, without a means of escape, developed symptoms of lethargy, inactivity, loss of appetite, and tended to behave helplessly, even when escape was possible. In other words, physical stress and discomfort induced psychological symptoms.  Other studies have demonstrated the connection between psychological distresses and impaired immunological, neurological, and cardiovascular functioning. 

Stress affects the body by modifying the release of hormones which increase heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension.  These changes are useful for keeping us safe when confronted with danger, but continuous stimulation of these systems can lead    to a greatly reduced ability to function in many ways, as well as an eventual break down of the body’s ability to maintain them.

The Mind-Body Medical Institute of Harvard University has created a Stress Warning Signals Checklist which outlines the most common warning signals of dangerous stress.  These warning signals are briefly outlined on the lower right (to see a complete checklist, go to http://www.mbmi.org).

Studies have shown that individuals, who suffer from such symptoms as those above, benefit from techniques such as guided imagery, or guided meditation, and muscle relaxation.  The evidence has shown that these techniques reduce heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and help to slow down the production of the stress hormones that trigger the sympathetic nervous system.  The brain and body produces increased levels of the neurotransmitters and hormones needed to improve our moods, ability to concentrate, ability to think more clearly, and the body’s ability to heal and repair itself. Relaxation and guided meditation help to improve immune system functioning, focus and concentration, and emotional and cognitive states. 

The SFHI process helps to induce a deep state of relaxation and meditation, while at the same time creating guided visual images of wellness and healing.