Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for therapeutic purposes. Hypnosis for therapeutic purposes is becoming more “main-stream” but there is still much ignorance about it. Hypnotherapy is not the same as the stage hypnosis you see on television; it is a gentle and non-invasive technique. Hypnosis focuses the mind whilst a person is in a state of relaxation. The relaxation of mind and body has the effect of turning attention inward and awakening the senses. Under hypnosis attention becomes more focused, just as a magnifying glass can concentrate the sun’s rays to become powerful enough to start a fire. A person will have a heightened awareness of internal sensations, and as this happens awareness of the external environment and everyday concerns is reduced. Therapeutic suggestions can be made to the person’s powerful sub-conscious and through these, changes to behaviour and thought patterns can be made, allowing the person to achieve their full potential. Hypnotherapy has many useful applications for both psychological and physical issues.
To find out more:
or read Waterfield R. (2004) Hidden Depths: The Story of Hypnosis, Pan Books
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is, at its heart, simply paying attention to what is. Being rather than doing, absorbed in the moment just like a small child.
Kabat-Zinn suggests there are & attitudes that form the foundation of mindfulness practice:
Mindfulness can be helpful in dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, pain and illness, as well as other aspects of life such as relationships or with children.
MBSR
MBSR stands for Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. This programme, lasting eight weeks, was pioneered and developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn in the 1970s in Massachusetts to treat people with chronic health conditions. Although it has its roots in Buddhist meditation, it is a secular meditation programme. Its great success has led to a growing interest in Mindfulness and recent neuroscientific research supports its many benefits.
No, you will only tell me what you want me to know. You are always in control and I am not a mind reader!
No, for a start it would be unethical! You are always in control during a hypnotherapy session.
No, although some people do fall asleep sometimes. You will feel very relaxed. You may also think time has passed quickly and feel your conscious mind drifting.
Feel free to contact me with any initial questions you may have.
