New scientist - Unlocking the power of imagination: how mental imagery can boost performance

Whether you’re preparing for an important exam, a business pitch, or a high-stakes game, there’s a powerful tool you might be overlooking: your imagination.

Recent research, including a fascinating new study by our very own Dr Jon Rhodes featured in this week’s New Scientist magazine, explores how multisensory imagery — vividly imagining not just sights, but sounds, smells, and tactile sensations — can significantly enhance performance and reduce anxiety.

One standout example from the article highlights how university students who imagined swallowing a pill to reduce anxiety before exams actually performed better and reported less stress than those who didn’t. The key? Visualising every detail — from opening the pill packet to the sensation of swallowing it.

This mental technique isn’t just for students. Athletes, musicians, and even surgeons have benefited from mental rehearsals. In fact, research shows that vividly simulating actions in the mind activates the same neural pathways as physically doing them, leading to improved performance.

A recent study led by Jonathan Rhodes, one of our own experts at the University of Plymouth, found that teaching participants to enrich their mental imagery with sensory details dramatically increased their confidence and skill in handling stress-inducing tasks.

The bottom line? Imagination isn’t just for daydreamers — it’s a high-performance tool. Whether you’re aiming to sharpen your skills or manage anxiety, training your inner world could be your greatest asset.

Want to try it yourself? Start by vividly imagining a daily action — like making a cup of coffee — using all your senses. Over time, this can help you prepare more effectively for the moments that matter most.

Read more in the full article in the 31 May 2025 issue of New Scientist.