The main secret (if you're having problems) is not to be too worried about seeing 'pictures' in your mind. Pictures are just a bonus, but you can get by without them. I've had some swimmers who were actually stressing out because they couldn't 'see' the swim in their minds - and this kills the whole point of the exercise! The number one thing with visualization is it must be 'relaxing and realistic' - so forcing yourself to visualize a swim will not work. The whole visualization experience has to 'flow', and it can often be fun, relaxing and exciting all at the same time! The more fun you have with it, the better you are doing it - so don't sweat it, enjoy it.
Just as they say you have to become 'one with the water' when you are swimming, you must also do this in your visualization - if the images are not flowing, go with 'feelings' instead. Feelings are just as potent (if not more so) than images when using this technique - because the goal is to fool your powerful subconscious mind into BELIEVING that you are swimming a great race. Remember, you subconscious mind is like a computer - it CANNOT tell the difference between reality and something which is vividly imagined. It cannot tell the difference, so all you need is some 'realism' in your images, and you will have programmed your subconscious for a great swim.
So don't stress out about visualization, enjoy it - and make it as 'real' as a great movie can be. Feel the emotions, even if you can't see the images. Or if you're working on technique - feel the stroke movements instead.
Another problem some swimmers go through is whether they should visualize the swim from 'inside their body' or up from above (looking down at themselves). Either way is fine, or even a little of both. If you have trouble seeing the images in your mind, then the option of 'being in your own body' and just 'feeling' the swim would probably work better for you. It doesn't matter how you visualize - as long as you DO it. It's as vital as breathing if you want to be successful, and the bonus is - it's FUN! Enjoy it, and make it a part of your everyday life, and watch your performances transform magnificently.
The Mind controls the body, and the mind is unlimited. The best of success,
Craig Townsend
