What is self-hypnosis and is it for you?

Problems, problems, problems. Sometimes all we can see in our life is problems. So many that we cannot see solutions.

Problems of the mind can be started by conscious events in our lives whilst at other times we may be unaware of why we feel a particular way.

It is a fact that the first important step to resolving any problem is recognising that you have a problem in the first place. That recognition itself makes you feel better.

If you can, why not speak to a friend or family member about how you feel and the problems in your life. It is not always possible to speak to a family member or friend. Whether you can or cannot speak to friends or family, you still have to move to the next step.

If your problem is not a fear or phobia, you may decide you need to see your doctor. Maybe your doctor will diagnose depression, perhaps just mild depression. Or maybe your nervous system is just stretched to its limit.

So what solutions are open to you?

Your doctor may prescribe medication or therapy. Different practitioners have different ideas on the merits of therapy or "popping a pill". If you are a person who prefers a "natural approach" to health, why not try hypnosis?

Just the word hypnosis can strike fear into the hearts of many people. Why? Usually because of a lack of understanding of the subject but more often than not the vision they have is of someone being made a fool of in a stage show.

Going for a therapy session with a hypnotherapist may take a bit of courage. When seeing a therapist in person you get the benefit of their wisdom and a diagnosis. The fact that you make the big decision to see a therapist means you have recognised that you have a problem and need specialised help. The hypnotherapist will do a diagnosis and create a specialised programme for you. How many sessions I hear you ask? Well that is the question. Much depends upon your progress which is a different rate for different people.

Fortunately technology in the form of self hypnosis CDs has come to the aid of both practitioner and patient.

Whether going for a session with a hypnotherapist or listening to a CD, the challenges are the same. Finding a good one, trusting the therapist and opening your mind to the solution being offered.

You are entering an unknown world and scepticism and fear of the unknown is the first hurdle. Here is someone you do not know persuading you to relax and even suggesting that you go to sleep. And you know that once in that state, hypnotic suggestion will be whispered into your ear. Do not worry; we all go through that stage.

Listening to a self hypnosis audio CD is no different to having a therapist in the room with you. With a self hypnosis CD, the difference is that you can easily arrange your therapy sessions to fit into your daily schedule and you can listen every day and several times a day. Should it be mentioned that to do that with a therapist would cost a fortune?

I am not suggesting that you should not see a hypnotherapist in person. Many hypnotherapists provide a CD for the patient to take home for long term and continued therapy.

Self hypnosis by use of a hypnosis CD can be very powerful. I cannot stress enough that care should be taken to ensure that you find a good and recommended range by a qualified hypnotherapist. Pick a bad one and it will do you no good and just as importantly close your mind to the quality therapists.

There is so much choice today dealing with phobias and fears, building confidence and self esteem to overcoming addictions and nerves.

Take the first step. Take a look at what is available and open your mind to the possibilities. Most importantly be patient. It is not a miracle cure that manifests itself after one listening.

Rodger Cresswell

Rodger Cresswell is Managing Director of Avondale Consultancy Limited and Consultant to JC Regali Hypnosis

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Hypnosis CDs – A Personal Experience

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