What happens in a Guided Imagery and Music Session?
When you arrive at the house, Mary ushers you from her front door to the studio, a quiet, round room with walls made of straw bales and plaster. In this safe space, you and Mary have a conversation to see how you are doing, and what you are here for. Then, you lay on a comfortable mattress supported by the earthen floor beneath. Mary leads you in a relaxation induction using breath, imagery or body sensations, so that you can begin to calm the mind and relax the body. The music begins, a specially sequenced program of classical music that Mary selects for you personally on that day. As the music plays, it may elicit images from inside you; these are encouraged and focused by Mary, who serves as an active witness. After the music ends, you are gently guided back toward an ordinary state of consciousness. You may feel deeply relaxed, amazed, very moved, curious, or complete. You may be invited to draw a mandala or write at that moment, or you may prefer to simply talk about the images, and process them further once home. Deeper insights about the content of your session could well arise over the following days, as the experience percolates. You leave with a transcript, a written account of what has transpired during the session, to which you can refer whenever you wish.
What are the origins of the Bonny Method?
The Bonny Method was developed by music therapist Helen Bonny in the 1970’s. As a music-centered exploration of consciousness, it offers you the opportunity to integrate physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being, as well as awaken to a greater transcendent identity. The music is designed to stimulate and sustain a dynamic unfolding of unique and personal inner experiences.
The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music can be beneficial for anyone who:
- wishes to expand and inspire their creativity.
- is experiencing physical or mental health challenges.
- has trauma, loss or grief issues.
- desires an opportunity to redress and explore past and present relationships.
- is searching for a deeper understanding of themself.
The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music is available for individuals and groups. The format may be adapted, and is suitable for people of all ages – children, youth, adults and elders.
The Bonny Method
For further information about the Bonny Method and how it came to be created by Helen Bonny, please visit the Bonny Method website .