Serenity in Surgery
This technique practices visualisation and breath synchronisation to help you find serenity just before your surgery and in the lead up as well. And having these moments in the weeks and months before helps us stop, slow those thoughts and rationalise the safety of our procedure and the good care that you're going to be in. As we try different breathing techniques, you're going to find some click perfectly with different personalities.
Find a comfortable position, either seated or lying down, with your body fully supported. Close your eyes and take a moment to settle in. Feel the support of the surface beneath you and allow your body to relax. We will combine deep breathing with calming visualisation to help bring your mind and body into a state of relaxation. Right, let's begin.
Take a deep breath in through your nose, filling your lungs completely. Hold for a moment and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Breathe this deep breath once more, inhaling deeply and then exhaling slowly. Now imagine yourself in a peaceful place. It could be a beach, a forest, a mountain or any place where you feel safe and calm. Picture this place in your mind in as much detail as possible. As you breathe in, imagine inhaling the fresh, soothing air of this peaceful place. Feel it filling your lungs and bringing a sense of calm and tranquility to your entire body. Inhale, pause. As you hold your breath, take a moment to fully experience the serenity of your peaceful place. That is the colors, the sounds, the smells, the sensations around you. As you exhale, imagine releasing any tension, anxiety or worry. Feel these feelings leaving your body with each breath out, making you feel lighter and more relaxed.
Continue this pattern of breathing and visualisation. Inhale the calm, hold, experience the peace and exhale the tension. Inhale the calm, hold and experience the peace, exhale the tension. With each breath, allow yourself to sink deeper into the serenity of your peaceful place. Trust that this moment is helping you prepare for your surgery with a clear and calm mind. Inhale the calm, hold and experience the peace, exhale the tension. You can feel the tranquility spreading through your body with each breath cycle. Let go of any remaining tension or worry. Inhale the calm, hold and experience the peace, exhale the tension. Now gently return to your natural breathing rhythm. Keep that image of your peaceful place in your mind. Notice how you feel, allow yourself to be present in the moment of calm.
Remember, you can return to this visualisation and breath synchronisation technique whenever you need to find calm and release anxiety.