Breaking The Silence: A Qualitative Study on the Use of Guided Imagery and Music, Expressive Arts, and a Body-Centered Perspective to Address Women’s Issues

Issues related to the body-mind connection are endemic in our society. Due to gender-specific factors, women can be at a greater risk for disorders or characteristics that result from an unhealthy relationship to the body. The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) has been used to address somatic issues such as those that manifest in trauma and illness and has the potential to create powerful changes in the body and mind. This study used guided imagery and music in group therapy (Group GIM) and other expressive arts modalities with women as a means to address these body-mind issues. Through a combination of imagery, music, body-centered techniques, and visual art, participants experienced emotional expression, connected with and supported one another, and gained a deeper awareness of body and personal issues.