Do you really SEE things in your mind's eye?

[basil12]

When you talk about "visualizing" what you want in the future or "visualizing" an intention, do you mean that you literally see it? Like really see it, like the way you see things in a dream? Because there have been just a handful of times where I get a vivid flash of sight and it's like I'm actually seeing what I'm thinking about. This just started less than a year ago and it still startles me so much that it only lasts a second (mostly it happens when I'm very tired).

Is this what I should be trying to cultivate? Or do I just need to summon the feelings that go along with my goal? If nothing else, seeing images with your eyes closed is really cool.

[torilink]

obviously I'm wrong but I thought this was something most everyone does normally ??? I guess I never thought about it being a difficult thing to do.

I'd love to hear from others about this and whether it is typical to be unable to visualize like this?

in answer to your question, yes it is like seeing only without your eyes. It is images in your mind.

You can cultivate it and get to the point where you can do it with your eyes open. For me it is very important in intentional manifestation.

[Elrond]

Originally Posted by basil12

Because there have been just a handful of times where I get a vivid flash of sight and it's like I'm actually seeing what I'm thinking about. This just started less than a year ago and it still startles me so much that it only lasts a second (mostly it happens when I'm very tired).

I sometimes spontaniusly get flashes of light: not images, just a white light. It is than that it seems like I am actually seeing it, much more than when I am imagining something normally, even with my eyes shut.

You could try to focus your visualization right in front of you; where you see with your eyes. For me, that helps me to become more immersed in the imagination. So much sometimes that the imagination seems like an almost as valid world when i open my eyes again. It is often when I focus like this that I get these flashes of light.

I'm also interested in being to see as vividly with my minds eye as with my actual eyes. It would be cool.

[Parthon]

I've been practicing visualisation for a while now, since I was about 20, even though I didn't really know what I was doing. It's now gotten to the point where I can visualise almost anything I can think of and the visualisation extends to other senses. I can remember what a rose smells like and create it. I can taste the memory of an icecream. I can see an overhead map of the area in which I'm standing, based on what I know about the area. I can imagine what a project of mine will look like before I start work on it. The strange thing is that all of this is happening somewhere else in my mind, but also in the same place. I can't see it like I normally see things, but I still see it as if it were real. It's almost like having another pair of eyes that looks inwards instead of outwards.

As for visualisation as an intention tool, it's very very handy. It makes whatever you imagine more concrete and real. When you can see your goal clearly as a physical reality then that's when all the passion and energy rises up in order to go after the goal. You don't need willpower or motivation then, because you are working from pure inspiration. That's really the true power of visualisation.

Visualisation is also not hard to practice, just whenever you remember spend some time imagining something, then visualising it. Try and see the imagination. It's pretty much a skill like any other that just takes practice.

[lasti]

Originally Posted by basil12

When you talk about "visualizing" what you want in the future or "visualizing" an intention, do you mean that you literally see it? Like really see it, like the way you see things in a dream? Because there have been just a handful of times where I get a vivid flash of sight and it's like I'm actually seeing what I'm thinking about. This just started less than a year ago and it still startles me so much that it only lasts a second (mostly it happens when I'm very tired).

Is this what I should be trying to cultivate? Or do I just need to summon the feelings that go along with my goal? If nothing else, seeing images with your eyes closed is really cool.

have you never had day-dreams?

[basil12]

Originally Posted by torilink

obviously I'm wrong but I thought this was something most everyone does normally ??? I guess I never thought about it being a difficult thing to do.

I'd love to hear from others about this and whether it is typical to be unable to visualize like this?

My theory is this: Whether or not someone can do this, they assume that their way is how everyone else is. It doesn't get discussed much because no one thinks there is anything to discuss, so people like me don't realize this ability even exists.

I was really shocked the first time it happened, almost scared!

[basil12]

Originally Posted by lasti

have you never had day-dreams?

Not really, I always assumed day dreams were more like "day thoughts" where you imagine a scenario but don't actually see it. That would be awesome to really day dream!

[basil12]

Thanks.

[Wax Frog]

Originally Posted by basil12

I was really shocked the first time it happened, almost scared!

It can be an uncomfortable subject for me - I had a childhood phobia about not being able to "see my thoughts". It can still be unnerving for me if I think about it too much. Hard to explain...

[IamCreator]

Hey basil12,
I also have the same experience as yours. Somebody from this forum had told me that when you see random images when you are tired, it means that you are in an altered state of conciousness. This is the best way in manifesting. You tell your subconcious what you want. This is a state where you are most relaxed and receiving.

As for the visualizing... I was told that you dont have to see it like with your physical eyes. Imagining with emotions are a lot stronger with just visualizing.

As for my experience, the more I visualize something that I desire, the details add on.

Good luck with yours!!

[basil12]

This is kind of weird - I got this email today from the PhotoReading people:

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Welcome to Genius Sparks by Paul R. Scheele
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Visualization is a powerful tool for self-improvement.
Sharp visualization abilities can greatly improve the
results you get from many of our programs including
PhotoReading, Spring Forest Qigong, Abundance for Life,
and Effortless Success.

For years it was cited as a scientific fact that one American
in three was unable to visualize. Even Genius Code author
Win Wenger was one of those who absolutely could not until
he used the following methods to get pictures in his mind for
himself. Since then, out of thousands he has taught, every
person has succeeded and thus enjoyed the benefits of visual
thinking or visualization.

Try the following exercises. If you do not have a partner to be
the listener, use a recording device.

1. Afterimage Technique

"Afterimages" are leftover prints of light on the retina at the
back of the eye. For 30 seconds, stare at a light, window, or
part of the room that has a strong contrast. Do not use the sun
or anything else very bright-20 to 40 watts of light is more
than bright enough. When you look away from the light or
close your eyes, you will see momentary afterimages. You may
see a floating blob of light or color or perhaps a line. Describe
what you see in detail and continue describing as it changes
color and shape.

Unreinforced afterimages last only a few seconds. Reinforced
by attention and description, your afterimage can last minutes.
If yours fades after a few moments, recharge on the light and
resume describing.

At some point while examining and describing your
afterimages, you may notice other kinds of images, such as
trace impressions or a momentary eye, face, landscape, vase,
etc. Notice when you get one and switch to describing it.
Describe in the present tense, as if you still see it, even if you
caught only a momentary glimpse. With your attentive detailed
sustained flow of description, more images will come.

If 10 to 20 minutes sustained effort with afterimages does not
lead you to more interesting perceptions, smile, breath, and
try this next technique.

2. Phosphenes

"Phosphenes" are luminous impressions that result from
changing pressure on the retina. Gently rub your own closed
eyes like a sleepy child and describe the light and color
variations you see. Continue describing what develops.

3. Music

Close your eyes and listen to richly textured music, preferably
classical, French impressionist, or progressive jazz. Choose
complex music that attracts and involves your more sensitive
faculties. When the music inspires an image or sensation, delve
deep into description. If you have seen Walt Disney's film
Fantasia, you may remember the intense connection between
the classical music score and the animated action and dance
that sprang from it.

4. Home Blindfolded

Make your way around your apartment or house blindfolded,
feeling various objects and describing them at length. For an
alternative experience, have your partner create a grab bag of
many highly diverse objects for you to feel. Regardless of
whether you successfully identify the item, describe it fully.

This exercise is also a creative problem-solving technique. If
you have been working to solve a problem and have not yet
gotten you're a-ha!, you can turn to perception by asking
yourself, "How would I experience this if I could not see? How
would I "see" it differently from how I am seeing it now?" Or if
I could not hear? Or if I were very short or very tall? Do
anything to change the way you are approaching the problem
to shift you from your stuck "knowledge".

5. Eat Blindfolded

Describe in detail what you are eating. Include taste, smell,
sound, texture, and appearance.

6. Afterimage Room

Stand in a dark room looking toward where the light will be,
turn on the lights, and immediately close your eyes. You should
find elaborate afterimages or even an entire scene. Vary the
exercise by quickly flicking the lights on and off several times
with eyes open and leaving them on or off after you close your
eyes. Compare afterimages with lights left on or off. Describe
everything in your awareness.

These techniques and more can be found in the
Genius Code course.

Increase IQ with Genius Code, Win Wenger and Paul Scheele

[FrancesL]

I don't see visualisations with my eyes, I see them with my imagination (my 'mind's eye').

In physical terms, it feels as if I have another eye that is located inside my skull, somewhere near the top and towards the back, which looks inwards at a small area - almost like a tiny theatre - in the centre of my skull. The visualisations play out in that theatre.

God, that looks so weird written down. But there's really no other way of describing it.

[Wax Frog]

Originally Posted by FrancesL

God, that looks so weird written down. But there's really no other way of describing it.

Believe me, how I know what you mean.

[lasti]

Originally Posted by basil12

Not really, I always assumed day dreams were more like "day thoughts" where you imagine a scenario but don't actually see it. That would be awesome to really day dream!

Wow, that's interesting. So you tell yourself a story or what? What about sexual fantasies?
I'm daydreaming regularly since I can remember. And yes, it's really like a dream that you see in your mind (not with your eyes). It's not like a lucid dream, though, it's not that realistic at all.

[FrancesL]

Originally Posted by Wax Frog

Believe me, how I know what you mean.

Cool. Thanks for saying so.

[mncz]

I always see sorts of movies in my head in a manner described by FrancesL. I see them about just everything, and lately I have understood that if I see a movie that I do not find particularly attractive, I am creating it in my life and I would do well to change it while it is in my mind and not arrived in my physical experience. I also have learned to vividly imagine the outcomes I want for a situation, which helps them manifest.

But the level I am seeing from where I am now is to not be attached to anything at all, and that includes being present in the moment now and not worrying about unwanted things to happen.. which presumably excludes the need to visualise the "wanted" outcome, since any outcome is equally good... a lot of uncertainty here yet, and offtopic, so I will stop here now.

[mel12]

Hello, I am new to the forum but your post was interesting. I think most of us become so accustom to using our senses in the traditional way that we don't know we can be very creative with how our body perceives information. Some people can tell colors by using their sense of touch. Another good exercise is to simply find a peaceful area preferrably in nature and simply really observe everything around you. Really look at a tree and imagine what it would be like to be the tree. See all the details of everything. Life can be very magical if we simply start paying attention again.

[Wax Frog]

Originally Posted by FrancesL

Cool. Thanks for saying so.

You're more than welcome!

When my phobia peaked in my early teens, I had to come up with some way of explaining what was going on. I started referring to 'shifting gears' where I would either be perceiving the outer world *or* my inner imagery. The phobia kicked in when I scared myself by realizing I couldn't "see" my thoughts and the outer world at the same time.

I sometimes wonder if this relates to the idea that I've been blinded to my Source as a byproduct of having to "grow up" (as defined by the unconcious majority ). Up until I was about 9 or 10 years old it wasn't an issue, then seemed to suddenly pop up, so I have to wonder what the trigger was.

[freedom11]

While the terms imagination and visualization are both visual by definition, it is not necessary to actually "see" your desired outcome.

People who effortlessly "see" images in their minds eyes are more visual in nature. You may find that you are more kinesthetic (feeling) or auditory (listening) in your visualizations and that is PERFECTLY FINE. To figure out which one you are, close your eyes and imagine a waterfall - do you see it, hear it, or feel it?!

Start with whatever method comes naturally to you and as you practice you will find that your visual images also become clearer with time. Just relax!. Your mind belongs to the invisible realm. All manifesting takes place in the invisible realm. After all, It's the INVISIBLE you want to change, for the visible to change, so don't worry about SEEING anything.

Avoid the trap of thinking "am I doing this right" or "I wish I could see too". I have enjoyed great success with visualization and I seldom "see" anything. I feel or sense it. With practice I have also "seen" images but it was never my aim to TRY see them... they just came naturally... do not try force anything... the minute you force, you resist and resistance blocks you up!!!

Bottom line, focus on the FEELING associated with what any specific desire would give you, whether that be via visual images, what you hear, or what you sense - all are perfectly fine. With time all three will come to you.

You can find more information about how to visualize at my site Mind Your Reality. The site is about mind power & reality creation. It's brand new so several articles are "coming soon" and many more have yet to be written - all are for free. If an article you are interested in has yet to be written, subscribe to the newsletter to get updates.

[Acting Like Godot]

Originally Posted by basil12

If nothing else, seeing images with your eyes closed is really cool.

Of course you can do it. You just don't know that you can.

Here is a simple question for you. Where is the door knob to your front door - on the left or right side?





An image probably flashed into your mind right then. Next question. Think of one thing in your home that is bright red in colour.







Whatever your answer is, some images flashed into your mind right then. You probably "walked" through those images, until you found something that was bright red.

Right?

Now in the same way you can create images of your intentions. Simple as that.

Initially you'll probably be working with brief, black-&-white images on a flat 2D mental screen. Keep building. Add some colour. Look at the thing from different angles, rotate it round and round. Listen to the sound it makes. Throw in some movement. Touch it. Is it hot or cold, rough or smooth? Add a few human beings now. Make them talk. Put in the scenery. A room with furniture, or maybe some mountains. How about a nice breeze? Do that. And how are YOU feeling? Happy? Calm? Excited? Inject the emotion.

Soon you'll have a 3D landscape that you can take a walk in.

(Oh don't be too surprised if eventually you encounter some entities in your landscape, and they do and say things entirely on their own volition.)

[MarkHam123]

I can't say I'm farily new at this, but it's not something I've really looked into until now. I "stumbled" onto this page yesterday, which, I believe, happened because of my current desire to find this answer.

I have two simple questions before I ask my very important one.
1. What is really the difference between imagining and visualizing?
2. How do you visualize? First person? Third person (behind or side)?

Now for my question/problem
My problem is what I call Negative Visualization, although it could be considered more like a Reverse Visualization. I've traced this back to my pre-teen years, when I spent three days looking for a lost dog. As I walked the streets calling for my dog, I kept on "imagining" her running back to me. The failure of this image from materializing itself made me test my vision. On the last day I "tested" this vision by seeing myself arriving back at home and crashing on the couch, still without being able to find the dog. I arrived at home and opened the door. My mother, who had arrived early from work was cleaning the floor and told me to stay out.

This has gone on up to the present; something as simple as meeting someone for lunch and asking certain questions ends with the person not able to arrive or something happening for me and having to cancel this lunch. People that I've asked have either told me that they have no answer or I've received comments such as "you might be connecting to an alternate reality."

I know that someone would say, "that's easy, think of the opposite." It doesn't work like that. When I try, knowing what I want as the result, then only a small thing changes.

My mother is very "enlightened" but she cannot understand what she does, much less explain or answer my questions. To her, it just happens.

In my case, I've had many occacions when things just manifest themselves when I needed something; but it has never been due to visualization.

It's the visualization part what I really wish to understand.

[Parthon]

1) I think they are the same, the only difference is that visualising you are willing something to become real, where as imagining can be for just fun.
2) Either first person where I'm present, or third person floating camera style when my presense isn't needed.

As for your problem: that's weird! :P It could be one of two things:

Visualisation/Manifestation is a skill and much like any other it takes practice to get good at it. Just like playing sport a novice would want to get the results of a master, but they just aren't capable. It takes years of practice and theory to get great at it. It's not all bad though, because that journey can be very fun. You can enjoy the training and have fun with it, it doesn't have to be a chore and a hassle.

The other side of the problem could be the "how" you are visualising it. It's almost like the baseline intent underneath everything else, and it's the source of the intention. There's wanting where you really want something badly, you definately really want it, but it's quite a selfish wanting. There's also wishing, where you really wish you could have something but you don't quite believe you can have it. The hidden catch with these is that the attachment that's generated when you visualise is what's actually manifested. You *want* or *wish* something, so at the end you are left with a feeling of wanting or wishing. You got what you asked for. This explaination is kind of a cop out though. The real way to manifest something is to manifest it without attachment. You visualise the result coming into reality for the good of all, and you visualise it intensely but don't care if it happens or not, but be thankful either way. Non-attachment is a hard skill to master, probably harder than visualisation. Being able to put full intensity and passion into something, be really commited to the end goal, but still be unattached to whether or not it succeed, that's the real hard part. Lastly: you should also visualise in the present moment, as if it were about to manifest right now, which will prevent it from becoming a perpetual future existance, because in reality the future doesn't exist except in our minds.

Does this clear up anything?

[MarkHam123]

Thanks for your advise. The issue is not so much on the wanting, as I usually get what I want (without being selfish). I've come to realize that the things you really want (or feel like you need) will come but sometimes they come not under the terms you are asking for.
Case & Point. Just a year ago I was struggling on how to raise the money for my kid's college. He was applying to very good colleges and I was afraid of how we were going to survive it. So I put this out there; in my own way is kind of like a conversation with God-myself. In my opinion, at the time, the only way I could get this solved was by either making some kind of outragous amount of money, or winning something like lottery. So, as I said, I put it out there and the answer came in a few weeks later. My son decided to go to a military academy; tuition fully paid. See, in my mind the money issue was resolved; a year later he is extremely happy with his decision and I realize that what I asked for was answered. But I never using visualization for that; or things like that.

My visualization issues are with mundane things, and because of that; I try to avoid it in more important issues. Let me give you two examples from yesterday.

1. I was meeting a client yesterday. I've seen this lady countless of times and already knew that she would be there. So my visualization (imagining) was arriving at her office and talking to her. I imagined how she looked like, from so many other times I've met with her. When I arrived, she was wearing a pair of ragged jeans and a t-shirt, her hair was rolled in a pony tail and her office was closed. Apparently there was some kind of roof leak and she had come only to clean up the mess in her office. Yes I met her, but not in the way I had seen it in my mind.

2. On my way back to the office I had a craving for a burger. Since it had been awhile, I decided to go a few blocks down to a place I used to go. I imagined a long line since it was just a little after noon. Arrived at the place and the burger joint had closed; they had gone out of business.

I guess in part I have never tried to go any further on visualizing thing due to the fear of what could happen. Although someone that I respect told me that perhaps is my fear to actually be able to make it work; more a fear of success than anything else.