By imagining a pleasant scene, which reduces stress, you can cause a needle on the machine to move in one direction. By imagining an unpleasant and stressful situation, you can move it in the opposite direction. One common use of imagery in relaxation is to imagine a scene, place or event that you remember as peaceful, restful, beautiful and happy. You can bring all your senses into the image, with sounds of running water and birds, the smell of cut grass, the taste of cool white wine, the warmth of sun, etc. Use the imagined place as a retreat from stress and pressure.
Scenes can involve complex images such as lying on a beach in a deserted cove.
You may 'see' cliffs, sea and sand around you, 'hear' the waves crashing against rocks, 'smell' the salt in the air, and feeling the warmth of the sun and a gently breeze on your body. Other images might include looking at a mountain view, swimming in a tropical pool, or whatever - you will be able to come up with the most effective images for yourself. Imagery in preparation and rehearsal You can also use imagery in rehearsal before a big event, allowing you to run through it in your mind. It allows you to practise in advance for anything unusual that might occur, so that you are prepared and already practised in handling it. Imagery also allows you to pre-experience achievement of your goals.