Module 7

How can I use imagery to move forward? 

Imagery can be used to help you move forward. Try this next imagery exercise.

Remember - If you start to feel very distressed or spaced out, ‘ground’ yourself in the and here and now by trying one of these ideas, or think of your own idea:

• Touching a stone or pebble.

• Use a room perfume or burn a scented candle.

• Eat a sour lolly or a strong mint.

• Listen to music turned up loud.

• Use five senses (list what you see, hear, smell, touch, taste here and now).

• Use a weighted/heavy blanket.

• Pick up an object near you and focus on it.

• Play with an object e.g., a ‘fidget’ spinner or stress ball.

Riley used this exercise to reflect on how to move forward after the loss of Charlie.

Imagery Exercise 2

Step 1. What qualities did I admire about the person?

• Charlie was so strong, never gave up, you could always rely on Charlie. 

Step 2. How did they make the world a better place?

• Charlie worked hard, was kind to a lot of people, made friends smile, we always relied on Charlie no matter what we were going through.

Step 3. What image might capture your most treasured quality about the person?

• I could always rely on Charlie – always there.  It makes me think about tall trees standing strong in the wind, always there weathering storms.

Step 4. Bring to mind the new image that captures one or two of the best qualities of the person. This is an image that you can take forward with you and call to mind any time.

• Tip: We recommend an image that represents the best qualities of the person rather than an image of the person themselves. Many people choose an image of nature. You may find an image of nature or something else feels like it captures the best qualities of the person.

• Image of a tall strong oak tree towering above everything, always there, always strong.