As we progress through life, the following question comes up for each of us: ""Who am I really ?" Sometimes this question arises spontaneously, other times it may come about after a traumatic or significant life event. We then begin to wonder who are we really beneath the pain, resentments, injustices, hurts, and negative experiences we have encountered in our lives. As we contemplate this, the thought of what would really make us truly happy ,peaceful, content and fulfilled comes forth.

As a psychotherapist specializing in hypnotherapy, I have utilized hypnosis to guide my clients to healing and transformation. Through my experience, I have discovered hypnosis to be a very powerful modality to help others transform their lives in very powerful and meaningful ways.

Though the subject of hypnotherapy is complex, very simply put, hypnosis is a very relaxed yet focused state of mind. During hypnotherapy the client is guided into a very relaxed, peaceful yet focused state. At an initial session, the client and I spend as much time as needed clearing any fears, misconceptions or myths surrounding hypnosis. The predominant fear most clients have are of being 'controlled' during hypnosis. Thus, I emphasize that one is always in control during the hypnotic session. The hypnotherapist does not 'put you into a trance' but guides you into a very relaxed , calm and focused state of mind. In addition, hypnosis is a naturally occurring state of mind. What that means is that we all experience a trance state when we are daydreaming, engrossed in a good novel, play or movie, or perhaps experiencing 'highway hypnosis' when driving for long distances. We also experience the hypnotic state when we are drifting off to sleep or beginning to awaken in the morning. This is referred to as a 'hypnopompic' or 'hypnagogic" state of mind.

As one relaxes deeply in the hypnotic trance state, the critical factor of the mind is set aside so that one can focus deeply on the healing suggestions. Hypnosis is a very powerful yet subtle tool. It works by changing attitudes, beliefs, habits and perceptions. I have come to realize through working with clients , that the truth of who they really are was buried beneath layers of anger, hurt, judgment, resentment and past negative and traumatic experiences. As we go within during hypnosis, we are accessing the subconscious mind and guiding it to remove blocks to our happiness, peace, health, and success. We begin to build upon beautiful resources, strengths, and capabilities that were within always.

As I have the privilege of witnessing clients clearing out the blocks which were preventing them from loving/accepting self, from being at peace within, from reaching their goals and dreams; they are then free to create new positive and healthy messages within . This leads them to understand and uncover the truth of who they are beneath those previous layers of pain, dysfunction and negativity.

During hypnosis, one journeys within to a self-discovery process. Step by step one releases those things which no longer serve them and keep them from being at peace and achieving their goals and dreams. As the inner and outer selves align, new possibilities begin to open up and life becomes filled with exciting possibilities. Discovering who we really are is a journey each of us should take for it leads us on the path to fulfilling our passion, purpose and the healing which lies within each of us.

Please visit my website: www.womenstherapeutic.com for a free mp3 stress reduction download, a free self confidence mp3 download , a free pdf on stress reduction and information on learning self hypnosis , which is a life long tool to reprogram your subconscious, relaxing your mind/body and healing within.

Author's Bio: 

Dr. Mary Sidhwani is a hypnotherapist and has been in private practice since 2000. Mary is also an R.N. and certified in clinical hypnosis and cancer support. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science, a Master's in clinical hypnotherapy and a Doctorate in counseling psychology and psychotherapy. She is also a professional speaker who has presented at NASA as well as other institutions and is a contributing author in the "Heart to Heart: The Path to Wellness" book and created the CD series: "Recognize the Truth Within."