A quick myth-busting guide to unlocking the power of your mind.
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a completely natural state of focused attention and deep relaxation. Each one of us naturally experiences this many times a day: getting lost in a book or film, phone scrolling or “zoning out” on a long drive on the motorway are all common examples. I offer “hypno-curious” sessions for those who simply want to try it.
Hypnosis is a completely natural state that we all drift in and out of many times each day.
When you are in this state, your mind is more open to suggestion. It’s an ideal time to align your conscious and subconscious mind, banishing self-defeating thoughts to set up new habits, using positive suggestions that take you towards your goals.
What about hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is when a trained clinical hypnotherapist guides you into a comfortable state of relaxation, then guides you to use a state of focused of attention to address the issues that you want to work on. An expert hypnotherapist will work with you to determine the changes you desire before creating a programme of tailored suggestions, using personalised language and imagery that meets your needs. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. Your mind only accepts suggestions that fit with your own values and beliefs.
A skilled therapist can help you overcome fears and change old habits,so you can enjoy better health and expanded horizons better health. For example, a person who is afraid of flying can become confident and able to take a trip on a plane; someone who battles with anxiety can become calm and confident; those struggling with craving unhealthy food can reset their thoughts and behaviours to enjoy nutritious, balanced eating.
Dismantling the myths:
You won’t lose control: you are always aware of what is happening during hypnosis. You cannot be made to do anything you don’t want to do.
It is not magic! Hypnotherapy is grounded in the principles of psychology and neuroscience. Research shows it’s a legitimate, drug-free treatment for many conditions.
Enhancing Performance:
Tiger Woods is one of many who used hypnotherapy as part of a coaching regime to improve focus and maintain peak performance. He claims to have used hypnosis for calming his nerves, blocking out distractions and keeping his mind on the tournament. Basketball players, Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant have used hypnosis for better aim, energy and skill during games. The technique of "mental rehearsal" is commonplace in sports psychology approaches and many successful Olympians adopt this as a routine training approach.
Albert Einstein reportedly used self-hypnosis to improve his ability to think creatively and solve problems.
Stress Management and Relaxation:
Growing awareness of mental health and wellbeing now recognises that safeguarding our state of mind is just as important as taking care of ourselves physically. Hypnosis is a deeply relaxing experience which lowers cortisol, soothing the effects of stress. It is a great way to switch off and enjoy a massage for your mind, leaving you rejuvenated and confident to face the world. Book a free consultation to find out more or visit www.melaniedaviesmindsolutions.com