Hypnosis
Quit Smoking with Hypnosis
By Connie Castanera, R.Hy., ACH
Apr 27, 2000

If you have ever tried to quit smoking, after having smoked for a period of time, you know that it can be difficult. Since we are all different, the degree of difficulty varies with each person. Some report that they experienced no difficulty, whatsoever, during the quitting process. Others report that they felt as though it were almost impossible. It is never impossible. With the use of hypnosis, the process of smoking cessation becomes much easier. The only requirement is that you truly have the desire to quit.

"Can you make me quit smoking?" I have often been asked that question by people who would like to have the desire to quit. Frequently, they are the ones that really enjoy smoking and are not ready to quit. I can't make anyone do anything that they don't already want to do. I don't have any control over anyone, other than myself and only wish that I had such magical powers. If I did, no one would be smoking.

Many are under the misconception that while in hypnosis, someone can control you. Nothing could be farther from the truth. You have far more control over your mind and body, when you are in hypnosis. This is why many people can quit smoking, easily manage the stress in their life, build self esteem and self confidence, lose weight, sleep soundly, attract healthy relationships and much more. The possibilities for achievement are endless.

How does it work? I believe that several components necessary for a successful hypnosis session. Trust is of utmost importance. If you don't trust the hypnotherapist, it won't work. Use your intuition. It's usually correct. Rapport is equally important. If you don't have a sense that the hypnotherapist understands you or what you want, it won't work. Desire to change is necessary for long lasting results. If you were persuaded by a friend, relative or significant other to seek out hypnotherapy, in order to make changes for their benefit, it won't work. You need to be the one that wants to quit smoking, for your benefit. Therefore, if you have the desire to quit smoking, hypnosis can be the answer for you.

All right, you have the desire. What comes next? There are several ways in which you can quit smoking, with the use of hypnosis. You can attend a group session, in which general suggestions are given. You can attend a private session that will address your specific issues and reasons for smoking. Last, but not least, you can use self-hypnosis. Some people are successful by attending a group hypnosis session. Others are not. I recommend a private session for those of you that were not successful with a group. Possibly the reasons that keep you smoking were not addressed in the group session. Everyone is different and unique. In a private session, the suggestions are tailored to suit you and only you. In my practice, I ask many questions about the individual's smoking habit. Understanding of that person's habit is necessary, to determine how to formulate the suggestions that will be useful for that particular individual.

Perhaps you have been told by your doctor that your health is in jeopardy, if you don't quit smoking. Perhaps your intuitive mind is sending you messages that it's time to quit. Perhaps you want to set an example for young people in the house. Perhaps you notice that you are frequently out of breath. Perhaps hypnosis is the answer for you.