Many athletes use imagery to rehearse competitive strategies and improve technique, but you can also use it to speed the recovery process after an injury. This may sound unbelievable, but several research studies have shown that athletes who used “healing imagery” reported having less pain, improved mood and less fear of re-injury and showed more strength, flexibility and faster recovery times than athletes in a control group.

If you’re injured, ask your physician to give you a description of what the injury looks like, and what will happen during the healing process. Using an anatomical model can help you form a more vivid image. Practice healing imagery for a few minutes each day, and let your mind help “speed-heal” your body.