Many successful performers use imagery and
report it is effective for increasing
confidence and focus when executing certain
skills. Some performers follow unique
scripts created to overcome personal
obstacles. Researchers have studied Olympic
athletes and found out how and when they use
imagery and even attempted to measure how
effective it is. The results are pretty
convincing, imagery helps performers.
You can
download a few of my guided imagery
recordings for improvements in general
areas, like relaxation. My consultation
services also include sessions for writing
your own imagery script using techniques
gleaned from psychology experts and my own
research into effective guided imagery.
Here is a peek at what I say about creating
an effective imagery from my forthcoming
book, Sensory Reflective Practice, Theory
for Performers
Setting a time
and a place.
When beginning imagery, it is best to find a
quiet place but the reality of your world
may be that some place quiet is not always
available. If you don't have optimal
conditions, it may benefit you more to stick
to your commitment to train regularly,
rather than postpone it and wait for an
ideal environment. Things don’t
always turn out as we planned so being
flexible, if you cant find a quiet place at
the exact hour you wish, becomes part of the
training. Being a good performer is often
about adapting to unexpected events. It is
possible to increase your mental strength
with imagery, and especially if practicing
in high traffic areas, even next to a
highway When beginning imagery, it is best
to find a quiet place but the reality of our
world may be that some place quiet is not
always available. You don't have to have
perfect
conditions, it is still beneficial to try
and stick to your commitment to train with
imagery on a regular bases. Things don’t
always turn out as we planned so being
flexible, if you cant find a quiet place at
the exact hour you wish, becomes part of the
training. Being a good performer is often
about adapting to unexpected events. Your
mental strength can get you through an
effective imagery in the most distracting
places, especially if you train your self to
go there. Research points to the odd fact
that your focus and attention can improve
when training and distracted with loud
noises.
