Copyright (c) 2010 Nick Clipton

Many people turn to self-hypnosis to deal with problems such as weight loss, unexplained phobias, relationship difficulties and smoking. Self hypnosis is a natural occurring state of synchronized concentration and relaxation with increasing consciousness. It requires one to have focused attention and enthusiasm to follow instructions. People can change their beliefs, thoughts and transform their lives by practicing self hypnosis. Right from the beginning of the process, some people feel like it is an amazing experience and end up getting awesome results. However, some people require thorough practice to feel the amazing experience.

Just as relaxation drives meditation, self-hypnosis helps one relax the body, allows the stress hormones to subside and distracts the mind from bad thoughts. The relaxation that one gets with self hypnosis can be very intense. Affirmations are normally part of the hypnosis and this helps one to build self-confidence and effectively manage stress. Affirmations refer to the positive statements one makes to counter unpleasant thoughts and stress. To perform self-hypnosis, one seats in a calm private place. Although others prefer lying down, it is advisable to sit to avoid sleeping. Avoiding crossing legs or any part of the body might be very uncomfortable while staying in that position for a long time. One should avoid distractions for at least thirty minutes. It starts by closing the eyes and striving to get rid of stress, anxiety or fear. It might be hard to think without intruding thoughts. However, it is advisable not to force the thoughts away but rather observe them neutrally letting them glide away.

It is important to recognize any tension in the body. Self-hypnosis requires one to imagine tension freeing away from each part of the body. You can visualize the body parts getting lighter and lighter as tension vanishes. Relax the toes, then the feet continuing with the thighs, calves, hips, and stomach up to the head. Each part of the body must relax and one can even use an imaginary technique such as water for effective comforting and soothing. Take measured deep breathes and when exhaling, see the negativity and tension leaving the body in the form of a dark cloud. While inhaling, see the incoming air as a bright strength filled with energy and life.

After removing all tension, it is important to believe that one is extremely relaxed. Picture every detail from top to bottom and after each step, one will start drifting further into profound relaxation. At this point, begin addressing the issue of concern while speaking in the present tense. The subconscious mind does not comprehend negativity therefore avoid negative statements. Repeat all the positive statements as many times as possible until satisfied. Then count from zero to ten and on reaching 10, rise steadily to achieve normal consciousness. Remain relaxed, calm and stay for a few minutes before opening the eyes. This provides a clear separation between the hypnotic state and the normal conscious state. A perfect termination prevents the self-hypnosis session to revolve into a sleep. When one is hypnotized, a sense of mental stability and relaxation is felt which is incomparable to relaxation. Along with imagery and meditation, self hypnosis can serve as a stress management practice. It also serves as a natural, effective and practical technique for deep relaxation.