Guided imagery: Effect on blood cell movement

In the present study Self-regulation theory was employed to explore mind-body interactions by measuring the influence of Guided Imagery, a psychological strategy, on the movement of blood cells, a biological component. The relationship between subjects' Relief about Guided Imagery and blood cell counts (post imaging) was also examined.;In a pre post design, 25 healthy volunteers attended an instruction session and engaged in a 15 minute period of Guided Imaging while in a relaxed, recumbent position. After 6 days wherein subjects had been asked to practice their Guided Imagery at home for 10 to 20 minutes two times each day, subjects participated in a review of previous instruction and a second Guided Imaging period. Blood cell counts were obtained from blood taken by finger sticks and determined before and after the instruction and Imaging at each session.;Results revealed a significant relationship between Belief and posttreatment counts for both cell types in the second session and a significant increase in white blood cells from the pretreatment data of the first session to the posttreatment data of the second session. Blood cell counts for both red and white blood cells increased in the first session; in the second session white blood cell counts increased and red blood cells decreased. During the second session unexpected distractions interrupted subjects during their Guided Imaging, possibly preventing subjects from imaging with the focused concentration necessary to influence biological processes.;The study gives preliminary support for the validity of Self-regulation theory and defines complexities of study design. Further study of the effect of Guided Imagery on biological components is recommended.