Group meditations or visualizations can be very rewarding for both participants and the facilitator. Good planning, however, is the key in ensuring a meaningful experience for everyone. Doing some easy preliminary research regarding whom the visualization is for, what the purpose is and where it will take place provides the facilitator with a solid foundation that a great visualization can be built on. The “Three W’s” are the place to begin in the planning process.
Planning a Visualization for a Specific Group
W1: Who is the visualization for?
Knowing the audience will help determine the focus for the visualization. An activity intended for a group of women can look very different from one intended for a mixed group. For example, a visualization prepared for women who are celebrating the full moon may include an encounter with one of many Moon Goddesses. Of course this would not be appropriate for a group of teenagers working on figuring out their career path.
Age-appropriateness is also something to think about with the first “W”. Visualizations can be done with people from all ages but age can be important in determining the activity. If the intended audience is a group of children, an opportunity to draw a picture of their experience would be an excellent activity to conclude the session. There are so many possibilities with visualizations and having audience specifics will help in narrowing the options.
Determining the Purpose of a Visualization
W2: What is the goal of the visualization?
Knowing the answer to this “W” essential in producing a meaningful experience for the participants. There are many reasons for doing visualizations. They are excellent in helping people connect with their subconscious mind, find out answers to questions, meet with spirit guides, to relax and even to experience something new like flying. So before planning a visualization, knowing what the intended goals are will make the entire process easier and more fulfilling.
The following questions can help determine a focal point:
- Is the visualization intended for relaxation?
- Is the visualization meant to connect people with a spirit guide, angel or spirit animal?
- Is the visualization going to give people a chance to experience freedom or protection or unconditional love?
- Is the visualization intended to help answer important questions?
- Is the visualization meant to focus energy on healing a particular ailment?
Answers to these questions will help narrow the facilitator’s focus.
Preparing a Visualization According to Space
W3: Where will the visualization take place?
This particular “W” is important because providing a comfortable space will help those new to visualizations relax and have a meaningful experience. Depending on the size of the group and where the visualization is occurring, the participants can by lying down, seated or kneeling.
A large group usually means that the participants will be sitting in chairs. This is both practical and comfortable. Often many people won’t know each other in a large group and they may feel shy and nervous. Sitting in a seat will help quell these anxious feelings.
On the other hand, if the intended audience is small and intimate (and space permits), having the option to lie down can be accommodated. The participants could even bring a pillow and or blanket with them. Laying down has to be an option, however, because not everyone is comfortable in this position.
Having the answers to the Three W’s is key in the initial planning stages for a visualization. Simply knowing the answers to who the audience is, what the goals are and where it will be taking place gives the facilitator a solid base.
Trish Hoskin - Trish Hoskin B. Ed, lives in southern Alberta with her husband and two daughters. Trish is a professional card reader and new age workshop ...
