The Art of Positive Thinking

Think it.

Believe it.

Be it.

If you are looking to make a positive change in your life, hypnotherapy may be an option for you. Whether it be stopping smoking, feeling less anxious, losing weight...Hypnotherapy is tried and tested and can certainly help.

The first thing to know is that you need to be on board with your change - 100% committed to what you are hoping to achieve. Hypnotherapy probably isn't for you if you have a vague idea that you would like to lose a few pounds, but aren't really bothered either way... It is crucial that you have a clear, achievable and positive goal before setting off on your journey to change. A good hypnotherapist will help you to identify and focus upon a realistic set of goals - so that the wheels of change can be put into motion.

The other thing is to maintain a positive perspective - you might continue to dwell on the 10 Big Mac meals you have eaten this week and hold on to the shame of the state of your body - but this really it not helpful on any level. Hypnotherapy can help you release old emotion and help to boost positivity. Really dwelling on the problem only serves to magnify it, so all that happens is that the problem seems much larger than it is. It makes much more sense and it is much more effective to focus on what you want to achieve. So in the instance of weight control having a clear idea of how much you would like to lose each week, the types of foods that you would like to be eating, focusing on your new svelete figure and the types of activities you will be doing is so much more constructive than dragging yourself down - A positive mindset is the difference between stagnating - staying the same - and feeling rubbish or achieving your goals - feeling energised - and being awesome!

Pick up any magazine and you can read about positive thinking - so much so that 'positive thinking' has almost become cliche. The thing is, neuroscience now teaches us that positive thinking can chemically help us to have a greater sense of wellbeing - positive thoughts create the wonderful hormones such as serotonin and endorphins which are directly responsible to how you feel. There is nothing woo woo about it! Positive thoughts can really impact on your life. 'Change your thoughts - change your life'. Ha. Sounds easy doesn't it, but in reality that positivity switch can need an almighty flick to make a change to your well worn mindset. Conscious positive thought can really help, but it is hypnotherapy that really makes a that subconscious difference.

Hypnotherapy and the Brain

Broccoli and the Brain

 

Hypnotherapy has many amazing applications - to make positive changes, break habits, let go of the past, improve motivation and so on... You may be considering hypnotherapy for anxiety, hypnobirthing, smoking cessation, fertility treatment, IBS to name just a few. If you are based in the Blackpool and Fylde area - you are certainly searching in the right direction.

Calm & Contented Hypnotherapy can help with all of these issues

This post is all about hypnotherapy and the brain. So you might be wondering why there is a picture of a stem of broccoli on this post - is it some subliminal message to anyone considering hypnotherapy for weight control? Possibly. But the main reason I chose to include broccoli in the post is because this is the vegetable that most helps me to understand what is going on in the brain.

Most people are familiar with the general shape and size of our grey matter - cast your mind back to your school days and you may remember 'the plastic brain model' in the science lab. or pictures in text books?

Without baffling you with science: different parts of your brain are responsible for different functions - moving, seeing, speaking etc... The human brain as a whole could be compared to a lump of play-doh. The brain is really malleable and pliable. This is a relatively new discovery - as in years gone by it was thought that the brain had little plasticity - i.e. unable to change once it had grown, developed and set in it's ways. However, it turns out you can teach a old dog new tricks as long as the treats are tasty enough and actually our brains are able to make new neural connections and make a change.

So back to the broccoli. One of the primary cells in the brain is called a neuron, which - yes you've guessed it - looks like broccoli - more precisely the tender stem variety. All sensations, movements, memories, thoughts, feelings etc are a result of signals passing through these neurons. The tasty tree like part at the top (the dendrites) receive messages from other cells, then signals pass through the stalk (the cell body) and down the stem (the axon), this signal then passes from that neuron to the next broccoli head through receptors via the release of chemicals and electrical pulses known as neurotransmitters.

The end result is a very intricate and complex brain structure and thus many of workings of the brain still remain a mystery. It is thought that hypnotherapy is used to 're-wire' the brain and strengthen or change current neural pathways. Suggestions, ideas and imagery which are in line with a clients goals and aspirations can be presented during a hypnotherapy session, these impact on the neural pathways and lead to a positive response in the clients physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

According to Dr. Mary Pasini “regardless of age, your brain has the ability to make new neurons and construct new neural pathways throughout your life. When you engage in new experiences or think in novel ways, new pathways are forged. Every time you think a specific thought, a specific pathway of neurons fires up, neurotransmitters are released and synapses are subtly altered. With repetition this pathway is strengthened. Even as you read this very sentence, your brain is changing. In this way, your brain’s structure is a culmination of all the thoughts and experiences you have had up to this very moment.”

Hypnotherapy brings about a state of deep relaxation and heightened awareness. In this state, the mind becomes open and receptive to new concepts. It is believed that the mind doesn't know the difference between imagination and reality, so hypnotherapy impacts on neural pathway and new ideas can become a new reality.

Of course, this is a very simplified version and only part of what hypnotherapy can entail. At Calm & Contented Hypnotherapy many different techniques are used and chosen in accordance to what is most suitable for the individual client.

Whatever the scientific reasoning and rational for change - for those clients who:

• wish to stop smoking - habits can be broken
• wish to lose weight - willpower can be strengthened
• wish to overcome anxiety - calm and balance can be re-stored

Testimony to this can be found in the number of people who are seeking out hypnotherapy across the UK. It is proving to be a safe and natural alternative to dealing with emotional issues, behaviours and stresses in life.

Take a breather

Are you breathing comfortably?

As you sit there now: Are you consciously aware that you are breathing? Until I mentioned it...probably not. Breathing is an innate and involuntary function controlled by our autonomic system - which means for most of us, much of the time our breathing patterns don't register on our radar.

Perhaps as you read this and become aware of your breathing now, you can notice more about your breathing pattern? Short and shallow or long and deep. Some people breathe high up into their chest and others breathe low, deep into their stomach and these patterns change depending on our circumstances. In these ever busy days, the stresses and tensions of life tend to mean that most people are in the first camp - breathing short and shallow. What's more as stress increases, breathing patterns accelerate as part of our flight and fight response, thus fuelling and prolonging feelings of anxiety.

What happens when we breathe?

On an inhalation the diaphragm contracts and moves down making way for air to fill the lungs. When oxygen enters the lungs there is an exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and blood in the lungs. A complex network of blood vessels and capillaries carries oxygen to all parts of our body.

Breathing is quite a remarkable bodily function in that although for most of the time it remains an involuntary function, if you choose, you may alter the patterns of your breath. By paying attention to your breathing pattern you may learn how to manipulate it, to have a profound effect on your body and mind. Stress can be reduced and well being improved simply by focusing on long, abdominal breaths. Deep breathing creates a shift in the nervous system away from stress and towards relaxation, calm and mental clarity. 

Deep focused breathing can help generate a state of rest and repair. Diaphragmatic breath has been shown to positively affect immune function, hypertension, asthma, autonomic nervous system imbalances, and psychological or stress-related disorders. 

Learn to breathe...

One of the times that women may be familiar with 'learning to breathe' is within antenatal classes. Natal Hypnotherapy teaches women deep abdominal breathing which can help to:

•Relax your body

•Expanding your abdomen & lungs makes more room for the uterus

•Your blood pressure remains at a healthy level

•Increases the level of oxygen to your muscles and to your baby

•Increases the production of birthing hormones 

•Helps get rid of toxins and lactic acid

Instinctive deep, autonomic breathing can come naturally within a birthing scenario - but what about the rest of time? In daily life we often hear the deep exasperated sigh of someone who is feeling 'brassed off'. A natural antedote for frustruation. Perhaps it is a case of staying in tune with our bodies - and really breathing properly when we need to? Perhaps incorporating deep breathing on a day to day basis is the way forward... Incidentally the process of hypnosis is synonymous with deep breathing and just another benefit of hypnotherapy.

Yogis have known for centuries all about the benefits of good breathing and it seems science is finding more and more reasons that we should take advantage of this rich and free medication. So whether or not you are preparing for birth, whether or not you are feeling stressed out.
Keep on (deep) breathing ;)

Yoga and breathing 

Relaxation Techniques 
 

Hypnosis Blackpool

 

Word of Mouth

My aim for Calm & Contented Hypnotherapy is to reach women and help them to help themselves. I am 100% dedicated with helping clients overcome the issues and challenges they face in order that they feel better about themselves and have a happier life.

Whether it be hypnotherapy for smoking or hypnotherapy for anxiety - or something else... There are many applications for hypnotherapy. If you are unsure whether hypnosis can help you please give me a call.

Being boastful isn't such a good quality

 but every so often I think you need to blow your own trumpet 

 

I've had a run of wonderful testimonials for both hypnobirthing and clinical hypnotherapy. I could tell you anything...but it is the word of my clients that speak volumes. 

"Gemma is very relaxed and informal. Easy to talk to and easy to relax around. Explained everything very clearly."

"Gemma is an incredible hypnotherapist! She has such a welcoming personality that you can't help but feel instantly at ease with her. She has a deep understanding of her practices and the human mind, but what sets her apart is her genuine compassion and understanding, and her areas of specialism. If you're considering hypnotherapy then Gemma is your lady!"

 "So welcoming and reassuring. A bit like having hypnotherapy with a friend"

 And a lovely birthing story...

"We just wanted to let you know that we safely delivered our baby daughter on Friday 23rd October at 12.04am! She weighed 6lb 14.5oz. 

"It wasn't the most straight forward scenario as my waters broke on Tuesday morning at about 1.30am. We went to hospital and they sent us home for 24hours as nothing was happening. When we returned 24 hours later, they had no delivery suite available so we were put in a room on the ward to wait for a delivery suite to become available so I could be induced. In the end we were taken down to delivery suite at 3.30pm. They left us on our own for an hour and s half by which time I had started contractions on my own. I managed to just use hypnotherapy to get through everything til I was eventually induced at 10.30pm to speed things up. Then I used hypnotherapy and had gas and air to help. Our daughter was born quickly in the end, arriving an hour and a half after induction! I felt great afterwards, despite having stitches! The midwives and doctors were very impressed that I didn't require any drugs except gas and air. They said they couldn't remember the last person to deliver after induction without drugs. Ended up being a bit of a celebrity as people kept coming in to see us because they'd heard about our amazing birth! 

The midwife came back to tell us it was the most beautiful delivery she had ever been involved in!

 

She also complimented my husband on what a supportive birth partner he was and said it was very helpful! 

Our baby is a very calm and contented baby into the bargain!

All in all the birth was a fantastic experience, thanks to you and your brilliant natal hypnotherapy course. Thank you very much for all your help, advice and support."

Other peoples experiences of hypnotherapy might just convince you that its time to address an issue that you are facing in your life. Life is too short to be stuck in a rut. So if you think its time to make a change please contact me www.calmandcontentedhypnotherapy.co.uk 

Standard sessions £50* or block book 5 sessions for £200

 *Hypnotherapy for Smoking Cessation £75

Concessions for under 25's and over 65's

Looking forward to seeing you soon

Gemma Webster x

 

 

Colouring for Adults

 

Colour Away your Stresses

Believe it or not colouring-in is taking the world by storm. No-longer just for kids...Adults have taken to this past time with great enthusiasm. It is reported that 6 of the top 20 best selling books on Amazon.com are colouring books for grown ups! My favourite is Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom - A Colouring Book Adventure.

Switch Off

If you have ever given it a go, you will know that it is immensely rewarding. So many of us find it difficult to switch of and do 'nothing'. Colouring is proving to be an enjoyable past time across the UK - de-stressing and allowing us to find a simple creative outlet. Not all colouring books are just for colouring in - some of them include a doodling section which allows the colourer to freely express their creativity.

The concept is so simply that a colouring book and pencils (or fine point pens - which seem to be popular) can be taken anywhere - no mess - no fuss - and easy to pick up where you left off last time. I sound like I am selling! But I am truly a colouring in advocate.

Psychological Benefits of Colouring In

Clinical psychologist Ben Michaelis says "There is a long history of people colouring for mental health reasons," Michaelis says. "Carl Jung used to try to get his patients to colour in mandalas at the turn of the last century, as a way of getting people to focus and to allow the subconscious to let go. Now we know it has a lot of other stress-busting qualities as well."

Colouring and Mindfulness

So not only is colouring in fun! But it has relaxation and health benefits. Colouring in has been compared to mind meditation. Mindfulness is certainly a buzz word and there are many studies looking at the benefits of mind meditation. For many though - focused attention in a busy world is something difficult to achieve without practise. Focusing your attention through colouring in is a simple process - and even if your concentration is momentarily broken, it is easy to return your attention to the task in hand. You are in essence returning your attention to the moment aka mindfulness.

Colouring Benefits

Less Stress - Less Anxiety

"Numerous studies have put France among the world’s top consumers of antidepressants, and with the colouring book craze publishers may have hit on a way to fight stress and depression that avoids the side effects of popping pills"

Pen or Pencil?

In June last year it was reported in the telegraph that the colouring trend was sweeping France - predominantly popular with french women.

"Women - publishers say the vast majority of adult colourers are female - have formed groups on Facebook and other social media where they proudly post their work and share tips on new books or where to buy the best crayons. Cynthia Riviere, who administers a Facebook group of more than 1,000 colouring book fans, says she spends at least an hour a day filling in the gaps with coloured pencils."

My personal favourites are these fine point Colouring Pens.

I hope you have been inspired!

Gemma x

 

Hypnotherapy for Anxiety

 

 

 

 

 

 Anxiety

Do you have feelings of nervousness, fear, continuous worries? If so, you may be suffering from anxiety. 

 

Some degree of anxiety is healthy.

It keeps us on our toes, it keeps us safe and prevents us from taking risks, but for some people anxiety is so much more than this.

Isn't is normal for most people to become anxious before meeting new people? Doing a presentation? Or having a job interview? Well to a certain extent yes. A shot of adrenaline to ensure that we perform at our best and don't become complacent. Anxiety extends beyond this, for some feelings of nervousness and worry can have a huge impact on their day to day life.

You may find yourself avoiding situations or people that make you anxious, you may have a continous stream of negative self talk that drives you to distraction and prevents you from enjoying the moment, you may even have morbid thoughts which are really scary to you.

And what about physical sysmptoms, insomnia, sweating, diarrhoea or changes in appetite?

Hypnotherapy can really help to give you confidence in dealing with stressful situations such as driving tests or exams - help for situations where you would expect to be anxious - and for many people this is exactly what they need.

Many people without anxiety don't realise these worries can be on going - not just exam nerves or slight concern for the future. For anxiety sufferers, these feelings dominate and can be there much of the time. Anxiety can really affect wellbeing, health, employment, relationships - it can impact on all aspects of life.

Hypnotherapy can really help you to understand why anxiety is there and to help you become much more calm in thought and feeling as well as physically at ease. The hypnotic trance alone will help to support your para-sympathetic nervous system by relaxing deeply and learning autonomic breathing techniques.

If you are feeling anxious, the first place you may turn is to your GP. I would always, always recommend seeing your GP whenever you have health concerns. It is the unfortunate that anxiety can not be 'cured' in a 10 minute appointment - though your GP may diagnose it and signpost you in the direction of further help.

The hypnotherapist is there to facilate change, but all changes come from within. Hypnotherapy sessions will give you the time to explore your anxiety in a safe environment and will help you to reframe your fears and put thoughts into perspective. No credible therapist would ever guarantee results, but hypnotherapy can be very successful if you are motivated and have a true desire to change.

For more details see No more anxiety

Birth and the Media

Quite often the media is responsible for sensationalising birth. Simply put: Drama sells, normal does not.

More often than not we find ourselves reading articles which stir up our birthing anxieties and question our own abilities to have babies - even though women have been doing it since the beginning of time!

At the moment though, the media seems to be giving hypnotherapy a boost in the right direction with the news that Kate Middleton and Kim Kardashian are embarking on hypnotherapy.

It would be fantastic to see more women in the public eye practicing Natal Hypnotherapy™ and promoting their positive birth experience xx

Kate Middleton
Kim Kardashian

Second Time Around

Second time Mums-to-be who have had a bad experience first time around sometimes favour a c-section. If the root of birth anxiety can be unlocked these women can begin to feel in control of their bodies once more. Natal Hypnotherapy™ workshops are one way of doing this.

Simon Mehigan Consultant Midwife at Liverpool Women's Hopistal says

"They think about what happened last time - when they had no control - and it makes them very fearful." His approach is to see them regularly during their pregnancies, build up their confidence and unpick the causes of their fear."

It would be interesting to read more about his methods for instilling birth confidence...

BBC Article - Are women with a fear of childbirth bein supported?

For more info on C-sections please see Caesarian Section?

Home Birth

On home birth Doula Rebecca Schiller states

"Perhaps the next step is to look at how we can nurture our anxious society so that it has the information at hand, the education as standard and the support as needed to make positive decisions based on knowledge rather than fear."

Women should be empowered to make informed decisions on their birth choices. More Home Birth articles to follow...

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