1.Visualisation:
Imagining yourself at a party casually declining that, for example, drink, cigarette or extra slice of cake rehearses a desired behaviour and strengthens neural pathways associated with resisting temptation. The visualisation is paired with positive emotions like feeling proud, confident, and in control. By anchoring these emotions to resisting the unwanted habit, the brain starts to associate the healthy choice with feeling good.
2.Reduce Cravings:
A hypnotherapist will guide a client to vividly imagine, unpleasant associations with the unwanted habit e.g. nausea, or picturing themselves feeling sluggish and out of breath after overindulging. This weakens the desire for the unwanted behaviour. At the same time, the hypnotherapist can introduce positive connections with the desired behaviour; the sense of satisfaction after a healthy meal that fuels the body, or the feeling of accomplishment after completing a workout.
3. Increase Motivation and Self-Belief:
Hypnotherapy can guide a client to replace critical self-talk with empowering beliefs. Instead of "I can't resist this," you might start telling yourself, "I love my new healthy choices." Therapy can address underlying issues of low self-esteem or self-worth that may contribute to unhelpful habits. By building a stronger sense of self-worth, individuals are more likely to believe they deserve the lifestyle they desire.
4. Relaxation Techniques:
Overcoming a habit can come with withdrawal symptoms, which can trigger cravings and make it harder to resist. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation help manage stress and anxiety, making it easier to cope with withdrawal symptoms and stay on track. Relaxation itself can reduce cravings. When feeling stressed or overwhelmed, people often turn to old habits as a way to cope. Therapy can help identify alternative coping strategies for dealing with life's stresses and challenges. Examples might include: journaling, meditation, sport or spending time in nature.
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