Cigarettes are a total drag. They hurt your health, cost you a fortune and leave you smelling like an ashtray. Kicking the habit can feel impossible, with cravings and withdrawal symptoms making you want to light up again and again. So, it's no surprise people are open to trying anything to quit and many have resorted to hypnosis. But can hypnosis really help you become smoke-free? Let's clear the smoke and see what the science says.
What is Hypnotherapy and How Does It Work?
Imagine chilling out completely, super relaxed, yet still totally aware of your surroundings. That's kind of what hypnosis feels like. A hypnotherapist, kind of like a relaxation coach, guides you into this state of deep relaxation using calming techniques like soothing music or gentle imagery. Once you're relaxed, the therapist uses positive suggestions to influence your subconscious mind. Think of your subconscious mind as the part of your brain that controls habits and behaviors without you even thinking about it. Here's the key: while hypnotised, the therapist might personalise suggestions based on what you dislike about smoking. For example, they might suggest that cigarettes taste awful and make you cough, or that you feel fantastic and healthy as a non-smoker. It's like planting a tiny "quit smoking" seed in your subconscious to help you resist cravings.
Does Hypnosis Actually Work for Quitting Smoking?
When you mix hypnotherapy with the usual methods to quit smoking, it can make quitting easier for many people. The combination helps in dealing with the uncomfortable feelings when you stop smoking and makes it more likely that you'll stay away from cigarettes in the long run. Hypnotherapy, when added to a complete plan to quit smoking, can make the whole process more successful. It provides extra support and guidance to people as they work on quitting smoking for good.
Powering Hypnotherapy to Stop Smoking with NLP and Life Coaching
When you mix NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), life coaching and hypnotherapy, it can make quitting smoking easier.
Here's how it works:
NLP helps change how you think about quitting. It's like rewiring your brain to see quitting positively. By finding and changing negative thoughts about quitting, NLP makes you more motivated to stay smoke-free.
Life coaching is like having a personal cheerleader and helper. Coaches help you set achievable goals, deal with situations that make you want to smoke, and celebrate every step forward. They're like your support system, giving you encouragement and guidance throughout your quit journey.
Together, NLP, life coaching and hypnotherapy create a strong support system for your quit journey. They help you stay motivated, deal with challenges, and celebrate your successes, making it easier to kick the habit for good.
At BestofmeNLP, our success stories in helping people quit smoking are owed to this powerful trio: NLP, life coaching and hypnotherapy. These three tools work together to support individuals on their journey to becoming smoke-free.
Benefits Beyond Quitting
Quitting smoking can be a tough ride, with withdrawal symptoms like anxiety making you feel irritable and stressed. Hypnosis can potentially ease these symptoms by helping you relax and manage your stress response. It can also help with difficulty concentrating, a common withdrawal symptom, by allowing you to focus on the positive suggestions being given during the session.
Thinking About Stop Smoking Hypnotherapy? Here's What to Do in the UK
If you're considering stop smoking hypnotherapy in the UK, finding a reputable practitioner is crucial. Here's what you need to know:
Finding a Qualified Therapist:
National Hypnotherapy Society (NHS): This organisation maintains a register of qualified hypnotherapists in the UK. You can search their directory online based on location and specialisation (https://nationalhypnotherapysociety.org/).
General Hypnotherapy Council (GHR): This independent body sets standards for hypnotherapy practice in the UK. Look for therapists registered with the GHR for added assurance (https://general-hypnotherapy-register.com/).
Healthcare Professions Council (HPC): While not all hypnotherapists are registered with the HPC, some may be if they hold additional qualifications like psychology or counselling. You can search the HPC register online (https://www.hcpc-uk.org/).
Before Your First Session:
Have an open conversation: Discuss your goals for quitting smoking and what you expect from hypnotherapy sessions.
Cost: Ask upfront about the therapist's fees and whether they offer any packages or discounts.
Safety: Hypnotherapy is generally considered safe, but it's important to know that some people might experience temporary side effects like drowsiness or lightheadedness after a session.
Additional Resources in the UK:
NHS Smokefree: This website from the National Health Service offers free information and support for quitting smoking, including advice on different methods and local stop smoking services (https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/).
Stop Smoking Treatments: The NHS also provides an overview of different stop smoking treatments available in the UK, including nicotine replacement therapy and medication (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stop-smoking-treatments/).
The Bottom Line:
The jury's still out on whether hypnosis is a guaranteed way to quit smoking. But it could still play a supportive role in your journey to become smoke-free. Talk to your doctor or a certified hypnotherapist to see if this approach might be right for you. Remember, quitting smoking is a big decision, and there's no shame in needing a little extra help to reach your goal! You deserve to breathe easy and live a healthy life, free from cigarettes.
Best wishes,
NLP Master Practitioner, Hypnotherapist and Life Coach
Online and In-person appointments (Rickmansworth)
Call: +44 7824 772 607
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