Summary

Creative Visualization by Shakti Gawain is a practical guide to harnessing the power of imagination to create what you want in life. Gawain explains that creative visualization is not some new-age fad but a natural power of imagination, a basic creative energy of the universe, which we use constantly, whether or not we are aware of it. She argues that many people use this power unconsciously, expecting lack, limitation, difficulties, and problems, and thus creating those experiences for themselves. This book aims to teach readers how to use their imagination consciously to create positive experiences, such as love, fulfillment, satisfying relationships, rewarding work, and good health.

The book begins by outlining the basic principles behind creative visualization. These include the concept that the physical universe is made of energy, and energy is magnetic. Thoughts and feelings have their own magnetic energy, attracting similar energy. Gawain explains the principle of 'form follows idea,' where thought precedes manifestation. She also explains the law of radiation and attraction – what you put out into the universe will be reflected back to you. Therefore, positive expectations and visualizations can attract positive experiences.

Gawain then delves into practical techniques. She emphasizes regular practice and making creative visualization a part of daily life. She suggests meditation periods each morning and evening, starting with relaxation, followed by visualizations and affirmations. The book also emphasizes the importance of going with the flow, holding onto goals lightly, and being willing to change them. It also provides guidance on creative visualization for relationships, encouraging total responsibility for the relationship dynamic and suggesting exercises like visualizing ideal interactions and using affirmations to foster positive change.

The book further explores meditations, affirmations, and special techniques. It explains how to visualize, emphasizing that mentally 'seeing' an image is not necessary. It introduces the concept of a creative visualization notebook for recording affirmations, goals, dreams, and progress. Affirmations are described as positive statements to counter negative thoughts and create desired outcomes. The book provides various examples of affirmations for different aspects of life.

Gawain also explains clearing processes to overcome blocks to achieving goals. These involve identifying and releasing negative beliefs and emotions, often by writing them down. The book discusses goal setting, emphasizing aligning short-term and long-term goals, and acknowledging both successes and failures. It also describes creating an 'ideal scene,' a written description of a desired outcome, and 'treasure maps,' which are physical visualizations of goals. Finally, the book delves into the concept of creative consciousness and living creatively, encouraging alignment with one's higher purpose and viewing life as a continuous act of creation.