Mechanism of Action
The left hemisphere is associated with:
Thinking
Analysis
Linear tasks
Logic
Judgment
Problem-solving
Sequential tasks
When the "left brain" is stimulated, biochemicals associated with stress are released, e.g., cortisol, adrenaline, epinephrine.
The right hemisphere is associated with:
Sensing
Perceiving
Feeling/Emotions
Apprehending
Empathizing
Creativity
"The 30,000-foot View"
When the "right brain" is stimulated, biochemicals associated with healing, calming or stress relief are released, e.g., serotonin, melatonin.
The right brain is the portal for images, and the goal of guided imagery is to activate the right brain to unleash this shower of serotonin and the healing, soothing biochemicals that help the body in ways previously described.
In essence, guided imagery helps the user to give the potentially anxious "judge" the slip by:
Sidestepping the logical, analytical centers of the brain
Bypassing psychological resistance, fear, hopelessness, worry and doubt
Grabbing foothold on attitude and self-esteem