Self Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a state of mind in which you can direct your unconscious mind to reduce stress and induce relaxation. To do this exercise choose a time and a place where you won’t be disturbed.

• Sit in a comfortable position with your eyes open.
• Focus on a spot on the wall or ceiling which is about 45 degrees above your normal eye level.
• At the same time allow your breathing to fall into a rhythmic pattern.
• Say to yourself I am relaxed and calm, and with each breath I take I am becoming more relaxed. Repeat several times.
• As you exhale, imagine that each breath out takes more and more of your tension away.
• If your eyes start to feel tired or heavy you can let them close.
• Once you feel completely relaxed give yourself the suggestion that whenever you say a trigger word (use a word which has meaning for you), you will relax and return to this same state of deep relaxation.
• When you are finished say to yourself on the count of 3 I will return to normal waking consciousness and be completely relaxed, refreshed and energized.
• Then count to 3 out loud and open your eyes.

You can use your trigger word when you next praactise this exercise, and you can use it at other times to help you cope with any stress.