Elite athletes have long used visualization to strengthen performance. Research in motor imagery and neuroplasticity indicates that vividly imagined movements activate many of the same neural pathways. These are the same pathways the brain uses when the movement is physically performed.
Embodied Neuro-Somatic Rehearsal
In 2010, before I had encountered this research, I was guided through a direct experience in which I began visualizing simple physical movements such as running, climbing, and jumping while at rest. As I followed these instructions, my muscles activated and my heart rate increased as though I were actually moving.
I later worked with three women over five days using short guided sessions based on this process. Each experienced measurable shifts in energy, clarity, grounding, and their ability to respond differently to stress. From this early exploration, the process developed into what I now call Embodied Neuro-Somatic Rehearsal™.
Only later did I learn that neuroscience research was beginning to describe how imagined movement activates the same neural pathways as physical movement.
How This Work Is Different from Visualization or Mindset Training
Embodied Neuro-Somatic Rehearsal™ is not simply visualization or positive thinking.
Traditional visualization is often used to imagine success, improve performance, or change mental patterns. In this work, the focus is different. Rather than imagining outcomes, we allow the body to experience new patterns of movement, response, and identity before they appear in daily life.
As this happens, the nervous system begins to reorganize. Muscles respond, breathing changes, and emotional reactions shift as though something new is already underway.
Instead of trying to convince the mind, this process allows the body to recognize what is emerging and begin living from it naturally.
What Happens During Neuro-Somatic Rehearsal
During sessions, we work with guided movement imagery that the body responds to directly. These may include simple actions such as walking, reaching, running, climbing, or orienting toward space differently.
Even when the body is physically still, the nervous system begins preparing for change.
Many people notice:
greater steadiness during stress
clearer thinking
increased energy
reduced emotional reactivity
a stronger sense of direction
a feeling of being more present in their lives
These shifts occur because the body is learning something new rather than being asked to force change.
What a Session Feels Like
Embodied Neuro-Somatic Rehearsal™ sessions are gentle and guided. You remain seated or resting comfortably while I describe simple movements for the body to imagine, such as walking, reaching, running, climbing, or orienting toward space differently.
Although the body remains physically still, many people notice subtle responses beginning almost immediately. Breathing shifts, muscles engage, and the nervous system starts to recognize a new pattern of movement and possibility.
Because the work happens through imagined movement rather than physical effort, it is especially supportive for people who are tired, recovering from illness or injury, living with limited mobility, or adjusting to medication. Even when the body feels unsteady or low in energy, the nervous system can begin restoring clarity, coordination, and a sense of internal balance.
We follow what the body responds to rather than forcing change.
Some sessions focus on restoring steadiness and energy. Others support decision-making, boundary setting, or stepping into a new direction in life. Each session unfolds according to what is ready to emerge.
Many describe feeling:
more grounded in themselves
less reactive in stressful situations
clearer about what they want
more confident in their choices
physically energized
more present in their daily lives
This has helped:
older adults
people on medication
those recovering from illness
those with reduced mobility
Contact me at IamHigherSelf@gmail.com for more information
Or to book a workshop!
Heart of Compassion 