I had the privilege to experience my first Guided Imagery and Music session in 2007. The experience was incredible, and GIM has subsequently enriched and healed my life in a profound way. Due to childhood trauma, and teenage depression I have struggled with a feeling of disassociation from my body for a number of [...]
When you embark on a Soul Journey holiday you are guaranteed to be in one of the most beautiful, sunny places in the world – southern Africa, the ideal destination for your holistic journey. A place where natural sacred sites and spiritual shrines, temples, synagogues, kramats, mosques and cathedrals abound, and most faiths and spiritual [...]
On the first day of 2012 I am embarking on a new online journey – a new WordPress website. This is a big challenge for me, as I have only limited computer literacy. My dear and trusted friend Bettina Horvath – the digital marketing ninja - is leading the way on this journey. It is fantastic [...]
Due to childhood trauma, and teenage depression I have struggled with a feeling of disassociation from my body for a number of years. I found ways of not feeling my body, and not feeling my feelings in order to cope with life.
Throughout the GIM session, I felt the power of life, the vibrant energy of vibration in my whole body. It felt like the instruments were ‘dancing’ underneath my skin. It was an entirely new sensation for me. GIM has since taken me on a journey of gentle and deep healing. The secret lies in the healing power of music and this unique holistic approach of working with it. GIM can be seen as a specialised form of Music therapy.
Guided Imagery and Music, GIM is a music-centered, psycho-therapeutic healing modality, which can be applied in a variety of settings during individual sessions or group work. It was developed by the late Helen Bonny, in the United States in the 1970’s. It is a process of exploration of consciousness, facilitated by listening to specifically sequenced music programs in a relaxed state, accompanied by a GIM fellow – trained GIM practitioner. Music is seen as an auditory co-therapist and partner of the guide/GIM fellow. It acts upon the body, mind, and spirit of the traveler, to facilitate integration and healing.
Most often this broad framework is followed during an individual GIM session:
1. Introduction, choosing a theme and setting an intention
2. Relaxation
3. Music: Listening to recorded music program in a relaxed state – traveling to the GIM music program
4. Art expression of the journey – Mandala drawing
5. Post-talk
What are benefits of experiencing GIM as an individual?
GIM assists in stress reduction, it facilitates a feeling of well-being in a holistic way. It is particularly effective in the healing of grief, loss, depression and anxiety. GIM stimulates physical pain relief and healing of physical symptoms. It also brings about self-awareness and deep transformation, which brings about personal growth
A person who undergoes the GIM process, has the opportunity to integrate all of his/her mental, emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of well-being. In addition to the feeling of wholeness as a human being, he/she is often awakened to a transcendent identification with the Greater Whole. Persons who experience GIM go through profound changes and, as a result of one or more sessions, make choices that lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
The GIM method of healing was brought to South Africa in March 2007, by Prof. Dr. Gina Kaestele from the “Imago Institute”. A group of enthusiastic students enrolled to do the training with Dr. Kaestele. The majority completed their training in September 2010.
The 10 South African GIM fellows are now practicing in a variety of settings in Cape Town and Gauteng. The South African network of Guided imagery and music was formed in August 2010. This network aims to support the SA GIM fellows in their work. It also aims to promote GIM in South – Africa and to organise further training possibilities. Visit www.gim-sa.co.za for further details.
When you embark on a Soul Journey holiday you are guaranteed to be in one of the most beautiful, sunny places in the world – southern Africa, the ideal destination for your holistic journey.
A place where natural sacred sites and spiritual shrines, temples, synagogues, kramats, mosques and cathedrals abound, and most faiths and spiritual traditions are practised. The large variety and availability of natural settings lend themselves to soul searching, in the mountains, at the ocean, in the African bush or desert. Explore the spirituality of the oldest living inhabitants of Southern Africa – the bushmen. View the magnificent rock paintings, which they have left for us to marvel at, as they depict the physical and spiritual dimensions.
Visit world famous tourist attractions (Table mountain, Maropeng -The Cradle of humankind, Mapungubwe, Robben island, The Kruger National Park, St. Lucia Isimangaliso Wetland Park) or venture off the beaten track to discover the diversity of this magical land, it’s people and it’s animals.
Shamans, astrologers, diviners and many more tap into the energy of Mother Africa and practise ancient or modern ways to explore oneself and expand ones consciousness.Holistic Fairs, full moon meditations, equinox as well as solstice ceremonies and various religious and spiritual events are celebrated in ways, which only a country as colourful and rich in culture and history such as South Africa can.
South Africa is home to many world class health and wellness centres and spa’s where one can be pampered, advised, healed and nurtured. Some offer treatments which can not be experienced anywhere else in the world. Holistic, complementary and traditional health practitioners of nearly all existing modalities from aromatherapy to zen, can be found in the cities and countryside. Juice bars, organic, natural or vegetarian restaurants offer delicious food for those seeking a healthy alternative.
For creative self exploration and expression the possibilities are endless:drumming, song, dance, colour and art in true vibrant African style…or eastern, western, and cosmopolitan styles…inspire your imagination!
So if sunshine and nature, ancient wisdom and modern diversity, joy and laughter are what you are after – South Africa has it all.
On the first day of 2012 I am embarking on a new online journey – a new WordPress website. This is a big challenge for me, as I have only limited computer literacy. My dear and trusted friend Bettina Horvath – the digital marketing ninja - is leading the way on this journey. It is fantastic to see her expertise and experience in the cyber world.
Thank you Bettina.