Cancer patients can use biofeedback techniques to reduce anxiety and help them cope with their pain. Biofeedback usually is used with other pain-relief methods. Imagery is using your imagination to create mental pictures or situations. The way imagery relieves pain is not completely understood. Imagery can be thought of as a deliberate daydream that uses all of your senses-sight, touch, hearing, smell, and taste.
Some people believe that imagery is a form of self-hypnosis.
Certain images may reduce your pain both during imagery and for hours afterward. Imagery can help you relax, relieve boredom, decrease anxiety, and help you sleep. Usually, imagery for pain relief is done with the eyes closed. A relaxation technique may be used first. Here is an exercise with the first image- the ball of energy.