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Journey into Hypnotherapy
Sarah’s passion for hypnotherapy isn’t just a professional endeavour; it’s a personal journey deeply rooted in her upbringing. With a father who was a GP and a mother who was a nurse, hypnotherapy was a common practice in her household. This early exposure proved beneficial, especially when Sarah used hypnotherapy to conquer her own fear of skiing in foggy conditions. Inspired by its impact on her life, she transitioned into the world of cognitive hypnotherapy.
Personalised Healing: The Core of Cognitive Hypnotherapy
One of the standout elements of cognitive hypnotherapy is its individualised approach. Unlike one-size-fits-all methodologies, cognitive hypnotherapists like Sarah treat every client as unique, tailoring their sessions through conversational techniques and word weaving. Sarah places a strong emphasis on creating rapport, understanding behavioral patterns, and helping clients envision their desired future state.
Techniques and Tools
Throughout the episode, Sarah elaborates on various techniques she employs:
1. **Ed Psych and Coping Techniques:** These form the backbone of her sessions, providing clients with practical tools to navigate their anxiety.
2. **Breath Techniques and Visualisations:** Employed to help clients reconnect with their body and manage physical symptoms of anxiety.
Addressing the Physicality of Anxiety
Sarah reminds us that anxiety isn’t solely a mental ailment; it also triggers physical responses. The body’s nervous system is constantly on the lookout for potential threats, reacting not just to real dangers but also to imagined future scenarios or past traumas. Sarah advocates for techniques such as body scanning, muscle relaxation, and softening one’s gaze to recalibrate the nervous system towards a state of relaxation.
Techniques to Foster Calmness
One popular technique Sarah shares is the “box breath,” which the pair demonstrate during the episode. This simple yet effective method involves measured breathing to reduce heart rate and induce a sense of calm. Another technique involves softening one’s gaze, releasing muscle tension, deep breathing, and affirming safety to oneself—powerful tools that can be seamlessly integrated into daily life.
The Importance of Finding the Right Therapist
A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to the therapist-client relationship. Sarah stresses the importance of finding a therapist with whom one feels comfortable and understood. Therapy is a collaborative effort, and clients should feel empowered to voice any discomfort or dissatisfaction. Sarah stands by her willingness to help clients, even if it means guiding them to a more suitable therapist.
Societal Pressures and Emotional Acceptance
Societal expectations, especially surrounding grief, can often compel individuals to suppress their emotions. Sarah and Tracey discuss the paramount importance of acknowledging and processing one’s feelings, rather than conforming to societal norms of ‘moving on’ quickly.