Images and Focusing
What’s the connection between images and Focusing?
I’ve had beginners say to me: “I don’t know if I’ll be good at Focusing because I don’t get images easily.” And I explain that there’s no problem there; Focusing is not a process that requires imagery.
In fact, images can BE a problem for a new Focuser!
Why? Because there is a way of having images that can take us away from a felt sense instead of connecting us with it.
If images are in the body, body-located, then we’re OK. But if the focuser is seeing the images as if on a visual plane, nothing to do with the physically located body, this can be a problem. This kind of image tends to change easily, be dramatic and interesting… like the focuser is watching a movie.
The trouble is, there’s no felt experience available with which to check the information offered by the image.
“I See a Glowing Ball — in My Chest”
Images can be in the body. We can see them and feel them at the same time.
The image is an expression of the felt sense. When we remember that fact, it becomes easier to use the image to stay with the process.
Try saying this, about an image: “Something in me is showing me ___________________.” (Or, from the Companion side, “Something in you is showing you ______________________.”) This would be equally appropriate for memories.
Then sense the whole thing: the image as a message or expression, the “something” that is expressing itself through the image. And sense that in the body, the whole field of experience that includes throat, chest, belly, and more.
If you find your image in your body, or you hear your Focusing partner saying something like “I see a glowing ball — in my chest,” relax. You’re on track… just keep seeing/sensing there.