Sleep Tonight?

As you go deeper and deeper … the blanket of sleep covers you. You’re so comfortable you find yourself drifting into the dreams. Into the wonderful dreams … drifting in the warm blanket. Going deeper and deeper, deeper and deeper… into your sleep … easily. Colors are floating around you. And the smells of sleep and comfort. As you continue to go deeper and deeper into your sleep. Allowing yourself to drift easily. Surprising yourself at how easy it is to sleep. How wonderful. How much you deserve to sleep easily… peacefully… Releasing all the tightness in your body.

As you sleep … allow your body to rest. Cherish your body. Take care of yourself. All is good … as you sleep. ……… And each night you go to sleep it is easier and easier to fall asleep quickly. You have peaceful and restful nights … as you deserve. As you accept that … you sleep … deeply…. ……

Although we have touched on only a few, there are numerous ways to use imagery with children in times of sleep disturbances as well as with other concerns. Guided imagery and meditation techniques have been powerful and effective tools to help children re-develop and re-member their internal resources and strengths temporarily lost during times of stress.

We are only limited by our own and out children’s imagination. Their wisdom is within; we are merely guides for helping them shine their light.

*Name changed for confidentiality.

Charlotte Reznick PhD is a child educational psychologist, an Associate Clinical Professor of Psychology at UCLA, and author of the LA Times bestselling book The Power of Your Child’s Imagination: How to Transform Stress and Anxiety into Joy and Success(Perigee/Penguin). In addition to her private practice, she creates therapeutic relaxation CDs for children, teens, and parents, and teaches workshops internationally on the healing power of children’s imagination. You can find out more about her at http://www.imageryforkids.com