There are multiple myths surrounding the practice of hypnosis largely due to the numerous “stage hypnotists” that would have us believe in their unfailing ability to control a person’s mind using hypnosis. You only need to experience the process once yourself to realise that this is impossible. What you are seeing, in the case of the stage hypnotist, is a very willing subject who is merely responding to strong suggestions by the hypnotist to “agree” to follow his instructions!

Hypnosis is simply the process by which we achieve a state of deep relaxation. It is, in fact, a naturally occurring phenomenon in both humans and other animals alike, with most experiencing it every morning in the transition from sleep to wakefulness.

The reason we use it as a vehicle for therapy is that in this state we experience a heightened awareness. As such, the conscious mind, which, in the awake state, is normally relentless in its activity, is relaxed, allowing for a more direct form of communication to be made with the subconscious mind.

Clinical hypnosis is also known as “Suggestion Hypnotherapy”.

In the hypnotic state of heightened awareness the therapist is able to offer you powerful, positive suggestions. In this way, negative belief systems can be broken down, allowing for the arrival of new, positive ideas and beliefs that will enable you to reach your goal. This form of hypnotherapy is particularly effective in helping people to:

• Stop smoking
• Stop nail-biting
• Beat pre-test nerves
• Abate phobias
• Facilitate weight loss as part of a healthy regime