xv, 429 pages : 28 cm Franklin shows readers how to use imaging techniques to improve posture and alignment, and to release excess tension. The illustrations help explain the images and exercises, and show how to use them in a variety of contexts Includes bibliographical references and index Introduction : how I came to use imagery -- Reinforcing what you want -- Purpose and will -- Using imagery for alignment -- Using the audio files -- pt. I. Posture and dynamic alignment -- 1. Roots of imagery for alignment -- In search of ideal posture -- Somatic disciplines -- 2. Postural models and dynamic alignment -- What your posture reveals -- Postural habits -- Rich sources for dynamic alignment -- 3. Foundations of mental imagery -- Brain as the basis for imagery -- Brain and consciousness -- Nervous system -- Neuroplasticity and imagery -- Developing mind : the role of imagery -- 4. Change through imagery -- Four steps for change -- Body image as basic feedback -- Developmental patterns and mental imagery -- Wrong habits that feel right -- Retaining your progress -- Motivation and change -- 5. Benefits and types of imagery -- Benefits : what imagery can do for you -- Types of imagery -- Styles of imagery delivery -- Self-talk : the internal monologue -- 6. General guidelines before using imagery -- Factors that influence successful imagery -- Guidelines for using imagery -- Training your ability to use imagery -- Concentration and attention -- Stages of learning -- Positions for anatomical imagery work -- Using imagery when in motion -- Image narrative, image bundles, and relational imagery -- pt. II. Biomechanical and anatomical principles and exercises -- 7. Finding your center and befriending gravity -- Planes for direction and location -- Central axis -- Body geography -- Joint movements -- Force -- Matter and mass -- 8. Laws of motion and force systems -- Newton's Laws of Motion -- Force systems -- Lever systems -- Energy conservation -- Ability of materials to resist force -- Dynamic stability -- 9. Joint and muscle function -- Joint types -- Bones -- Connective tissue and fascia -- Muscles pt. III. Exercises for anatomical imagery -- 10. Pelvis, hip, joint, and company -- Pelvic arches -- Balancing the pelvis -- Motion of the pelvic halves -- Counterrotation and three-dimensional alignment -- Pelvic powerhouse -- Hip joint and femur -- Iliopsoas and piriformis -- 11. Knee, lower leg, and foot -- Knee --Tibia, fibula, and ankle -- Foot -- 12. Spine and body wall -- Functioning spine -- Pelvis -- Vertebrae -- Facet joints -- Discs, spine, and psychology of pain -- Spinal ligaments -- Musculature of the abdomen and back -- Abdominal wall and fascia -- Abdominal muscles and the concept of core stability -- 13. Shoulders, arms, and hands -- Suspension of the shoulder girdle -- Glenohumeral joint -- Humeroscapular rhythm -- Elbow -- Wrist and hand -- 14. Head and neck -- Atlas and axis -- Skull -- Suboccipitals -- Mandible -- Hyoid and tongue -- Eyes -- Nose and mouth -- 15. Rib cage, breath, and organs -- Rib cage -- Breath -- Support for abdominal organs -- Skin as an organ -- pt. IV. Returning to holistic alignment -- 16. Definitions of dynamic alignment -- Plumb line -- Median alignment -- Ideal alignment -- Dynamic versus static alignment -- Dynamic versus static stability -- Pulling up and ideal alignment -- 17. Integrating dynamic alignment exercises -- Alignment in supine positions -- Alignment in sitting positions -- Standing and walking alignment -- Releasing excess tension -- Continuing imagery exercises