Does hands-off visualisation help with home practice?

[solo4652]

I have to not play for a week following a spinal operation. Bad timing since I'm in the middle of learning a lot of songs for first jam with a start-up band. I have tabs for all the songs - it's a matter of practising them now. Does hands-off visualistion help? Sitting playing air-bass with my tabs in front of me, visualising fretting and plucking? Bit like a golfer, rugby place-kicker, crown-green bowler mentally rehearsing a shot?

[JohnR]

I've always done this and for me it has been a great help in learning the neck, memorising songs etc. 

[police squad]

yep works for me too

[Len_derby]

I wish you well in your recovery Mr Solo. Is you first name Napoleon, by any chance? 
Visualisation is a proven and accepted technique. However, I think it’s important to know or check that what you’re visualising is accurate. What I mean by this is; if you visualise a note or phrase that turns out to be wrong when you play it, you’ve not only wasted your time but got something in your mind that you’ve got to ‘undo’.

 

Anyway, all the best for your health and the new band.

[Staggering on]

 

I sometimes practice DB by 'air bowing' and while the left hand fingering exercise helps, the real improvement is the right hand where I can practice up and down bowing as I read the music and also string choice and string crossings, it really helps me a lot and all I need is the music.