Reflection on the GIM Level I

Abstract

“When I close my eyes and listen to music, images come to me. And they take me to a place where I feel open in a way I never felt before,” said Rick, dying from lung cancer at the age of 59. I never suggested or encouraged Rick to use imagery while listening to music, yet it seemed to come to him naturally and spontaneously. During the course of music therapy that lasted nearly a year, Rick, who had kept his feelings inside throughout his life became a man whose heart was open to sharing his feelings. To witness his transformation was humbling and mystifying at the same time. I thought to myself: How did music and imagery transform Rick? The answer came while attending The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery & Music (GIM) Level I training. During the four intense days filled with powerful imagery, vivid dreams, and new insights, I began to understand the power of music and imagery Rick experienced. All identifying information has been changed to protect patient confidentiality.

Keywords

• GIM
• hospice
• end-of-life music therapy
• music psychotherapy
• consciousness
• transformation