Visualization can be a powerful way to bring about closure and assist members in preparing for new experiences. You can use the following visualization with your group.
Have everyone in the group sit or lie down, and get themselves comfortable. Ask people to shake out their arms and hands, and then their legs and feet. As an option, ask them to clench or tighten their arms and hands then let go, and then ask them to clench or tighten their legs and feet, and then let go. Repeat the tightening and letting go once or twice. Once comfortable and relaxed, ask participants to close their eyes and breathe. Breathe in and then breathe out. Ask them to be aware of their breath, breathing in deeply, then releasing and breathing out.
The following guided imagery can then be read. Read slowly, softly and clearly, pausing where appropriate.
It will soon be summer and school will be completed for the year. Imagine a hot, sunny day.
Feel the warm rays of the sun on your body. See the trees, full with leaves, and flowers of all colours in bloom. Feel the soft blades of grass. See the blue sky above. Smell the scents of summer … the grass, the flowers. Know that you are a part of this world and universe and that the universe is taking care of you.
Think about what you learned in your team. Over the last year, what stands out the most for you? In what ways has your team helped you to grow, to be who you want to be? See yourself as the person you want to be. Know that you are already that person.
Think of the friends you met in your team. They too are growing and developing. Just as you helped them to grow, they have given support to you. In your mind thank them, and feel gratitude for the time you have had with them.
Feel warmth and appreciation for everyone on your team. Know that in a way, they will always be with you and you with them. You have helped to shape each other for who you are today.
Now ... think of the people that you have reached out to while working with your team. Know that little things can make a difference in someone's life. Know that you have made a difference.
The summer sun is hot. You feel its warmth on your body.
Summer is a time to relax, have fun and connect with friends. A time to take a break. And, just like the flowers opening to the universe, you too are opening and blossoming. New opportunities and adventures are just around the corner. See yourself, interested and excited about the future. Feel the excitement. Now … focus on your breath, breathe in, and gently breathe out. Breathe deeply, breathing in, breathing out. Notice your breath … breathe in, breathe out. You are back in this space feeling safe, calm and relaxed. Ready for the summer and back with friends in your team. When you are ready, open your eyes.
Once completed ask participants:
- How are people feeling now?
- What was the visualization like for them?
- What did they recall about what they learned in their team?
- What did they feel thankful for?
- Any closing comments they would like to make?
- Is there anything else that they need to do to help to say goodbye to everyone?
Let them know that visualization is a powerful tool they can use at any time. Today, it was used for closure. Thank them all for participating.
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