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Ants Parder
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Within the realms of Personal Development, one of the most remarkably effective methods of treatment is without doubt Hypnotherapy.
Hypnosis has a long history and has been presented in many forms from classic suggestion through to NLP. In the past some circles have regarded hypnosis with suspicion. This is because of the perceived connection with theatrical hypnosis.
It is important to note that, within the framework of Personal Development, there is place for ‘theatrical’ performances.
It is important to be aware of the fact that whilst in the hypnotic state, the client is in another level of consciousness and awareness. They are aware of their surroundings and situation whilst also being aware of their internal processes. The client will neither say or do anything that they would not elect to do of their own free will.
Hypnosis is utilised to enable the mind to accept and act upon positive self empowering suggestions. As a result a wide variety of difficulties and problems can be overcome. Scientific research into learning theory, behaviour modification, cognitive behaviour theory, and the various hypnotic strategies have all been incorporated in to Clinical Hypnotherapy. The effectiveness of this process is continually enhanced through psychological research and a greater understanding of neurology and physiology.
A wide variety of techniques are available to induce hypnosis. Because the hypnotic state is very much a deeply-relaxed attitude bordering on true sleep, the most common form of induction procedure involves relaxing in a comfortable position – more often than not, in a recliner chair. Deep, regular breathing together with the focused attention on some predetermined object while listening to your Therapist will induce the hypnotic trace within a short period of time. The eyes close. A feeling of mild drowsiness and well-being will be experienced. Other feelings such as ‘drifting’ and ‘floating’ are dependent upon the individual client and the depth of relaxation attained. Hypnosis is a very pleasant experience.
When the conscious mind is relaxed, the hypnotic suggestions are made to the subconscious mind. The hypnotic therapies work simply because they use the mind’s abundant ability to accept positive suggestions to re-programme the client’s ‘mental computer’.
The subconscious mind acts upon the suggestions it wants to accept, thus
making a change to the client’s thinking and, ultimately, the client’s behaviour.
A change in thinking will produce a change in the client’s world.
Relaxed and refreshed, the hypnotic state is similar to the state produced
by yoga and meditation. The after effect is also very pleasant. The client
awakes refreshed, calm and relaxed, ready to face the future with more confidence
and self assurance.
It is a common fallacy to believe that the hypnotic trance is difficult to
achieve. Almost everyone can achieve the deep trance state particularly those
who are motivated to understand and ultimately overcome a specific problem.
Those with an average and above level of intelligence are most responsive
to the process. Clients can increase their responsiveness through practice,
relaxation training and motivation enhancing exercises. Many become very adept
at self hypnosis.
Behaviour modification techniques available within hypnotherapy include systematic
desensitisation, muscle tension relaxation training, visualisation and image
rehearsal training.
The list of problems which can be effectively addressed is quite amazing: smoking, weight control, nervous tension, headaches, emotional upsets, anxieties, fears, nail-biting, insomnia, depression, frigidity, impotence, premature ejaculation, study difficulties, concentration issues, exam anxiety, memory, asthma, shyness, confidence, mood swings, jealousy, speech impediments, performance anxiety, social anxiety, bedwetting, pain, relationship difficulties, sales and life motivation, childbirth, dental and medical procedure phobias.
The number of people who are turning to Clinical Hypnotherapy as a proven method of help and support is growing steadily. Hypnotherapy provides exciting possibilities because its basic premise is so simple . . . it uses the mind’s natural ability to accept and act upon positive suggestions.
It is more than thinking positively. It is a key to unlocking the full potential of the human mind.
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