As the days get longer and the temperatures rise (slowly), many of us may start thinking about shedding some pounds and getting in shape for the summer.
While diet and exercise are key for weight loss, hypnotherapy can help. The key is to do it for yourself and to focus on a healthy lifestyle with good habits all year round. Diets may work in the short -terms but they are unsustainable.
Hypnotherapy typically involves guiding individuals into a state of deep relaxation where the mind becomes open to suggestion and change. Using positive suggestions and mental imagery helps clients harness the power of their thoughts and modify behaviours, emotions, and habits.
It can help by examining some of the unwanted habits that may have formed related to food, and help boost motivation for exercise. Overall, it can be helpful in making better / healthier choices.
When it comes to weight loss, hypnosis may offer some surprising benefits. Research has shown that hypnotherapy may be more effective than diet and exercise alone for those looking to shed unwanted pounds. One study, which focused on individuals with obstructive sleep apnoea, found that participants who underwent hypnotherapy lost 2 to 3 percent of their body weight in just three months. And at the 18-month follow-up, those who received hypnotherapy had lost an additional 8 pounds on average.
Other studies have shown that hypnotherapy, when combined with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can lead to a small reduction in body weight compared to a placebo group.
What to expect with hypnotherapy for weight loss...
During a hypnotherapy session, the first part of the session will be an opportunity to talk through what you want to achieve, any barriers you may face work together to overcome these. Typically you are then guided into a state of deep relaxation before receiving positive suggestions to help change your eating and exercise habits. Using hypnotic language and vivid mental imagery can help you visualise yourself reaching your weight loss goals. While some people may see results in just a few sessions, the number of sessions needed will vary depending on your goals. Typically people will feel a positive benefit after just one session and really begin to notice a differece after around three.
One of the main benefits of hypnotherapy is that it allows you to enter a relaxed state where you may be more open to suggestion. However hypnosis is not a quick fix for weight loss. It should be used in conjunction with a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and other therapies for the best results.
In addition to hypnotherapy, there are several things you can do at home to support your weight loss efforts. Keeping a food diary, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, staying hydrated, and avoiding skipping meals are just a few examples. For extra support, consider seeking guidance from a nutritionist or other professional who can help you create an individualised weight loss plan.
So as summer approaches, many of us are eager to slim down and get in shape for the warmer weather. And while hypnotherapy provides many benefits for weight loss, it's essential to approach it with realistic expectations. Combining hypnotherapy with a healthy lifestyle, you can increase your chances of reaching your weight loss goals and feeling confident and ready for summer.
Get in touch to learn more about hypnotherapy can help you be more productive.
Malcolm Struthers Hypnotherapy - Dumfries & Galloway and online