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Guided imagery may be powerful therapy for patients with diabetes
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PHILADELPHIA — Guided imagery can lower HbA1c levels, reduce depressive symptoms and decrease neuropathy in patients with diabetes, keynote speaker Belleruth Naparstek, LISW, BCD, psychotherapist and creator of the Health Journeys guided imagery series, said here at the American Association of Diabetes Educators Annual Meeting and Exhibition.
“Guided imagery is an immersive hypnotic intervention. It consists of calming words, soothing music and positive images designed to structure a relaxing, healing experience that targets specific health outcomes,” Naparstek said during her session. “This is a classic intervention that can make a big difference for your patients with little effort, cost or trouble.”
It can be spoken one-on-one by a practitioner, presented in a group, or self-administered by a recording. Naparstek said this intervention provides patients with mastery control and portability. Otherwise known as “the lazy man’s meditation,” it requires no training, discipline or preparation. “Just press play and it delivers the intervention,” Naparstek said.
Recently, guided imagery has emerged in hospitals and through insurance carriers as an adjunct therapy for diabetes and other chronic conditions. It’s also being used by the US Army and Marine Corps for sleep-related guided imagery, Naparstek said.
According to Naparstek, the use of guided imagery in patients with diabetes can do the following:
- Reduce HbA1c levels
- Reduce blood glucose in the short- and long-term
- Improve circulation and neuropathy
- Raise endorphin levels which decrease pain and lift mood
- Enhance feelings of empowerment, hope and mastery
- Facilitate transition from hospital to home
- Reduce anxiety-based behaviors including eating, smoking or drinking
In addition, guided imagery provides immediate benefits and is portable and user-friendly. Naparstek also offered practical tips for success to the diabetes educator. She said that by putting imagery audio clips on the phone line at the hospital setting, patients may feel less stressed. Further suggestions made by Naparstek include: uploading clips of imagery breathing exercises, affirmations, or walking meditations to your patient’s smart phone or mp3 player for wide-range use.
“Techniques that promote relaxation and mood regulation will shift biochemistry in ways that can profoundly benefit people with diabetes,” Naparstek said. – by Samantha Costa
For more information:
Naparstek B. #GS03. Presented at: American Association of Diabetes Educators Annual Meeting and Exhibition; August 7-10; Philadelphia.
Disclosure: Naparstek did not specify any relevant financial disclosures.