Smoking is both a physical and psychological addiction. The psychoactive drug nicotine causes the physical cravings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), quitting smoking is as difficult as stopping heroin or cocaine use, despite the list of risky side effects, such as respiratory illness, lung cancer and peripheral vascular disease. The habits and lifestyle associated with smoking become just as difficult to stop. Hypnosis is a recognized alternative treatment for quitting that taps into the subconscious mind to aid in the effort.
Step 1
Commit to quitting. While hypnotherapy is a useful tool that provides suggestions for changes, doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that your free will remains intact under therapeutic hypnosis. You are merely more susceptible to subtle behavior modification suggestions; you still have control over your actions.
Step 2
Find a qualified hypnotherapist. Use a professional with a medical or psychological background. Ask friends and doctors for referrals. Avoid those who promise overnight results. Find out if the therapist is licensed in your state and how long he has been practicing.
Step 3
Get a good night's sleep prior to the hypnotherapy session to avoid falling asleep while you are under the hypnosis. Dress in comfortable clothes so that you can relax and remain open to the healthy suggestions without being distracted by a pinching waistline or tight shoes.
Step 4
Relax and follow the instruction of the hypnotherapist, who will guide you into a deep trance-like state. Let go of other thoughts that can distract you and prevent your being susceptible to the suggestions that you don't smoke anymore.
Step 5
Get a tape or CD and instructions on how to hypnotize yourself to take with you. Doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Center advise using self-hypnosis techniques between sessions to reinforce the lessons and suggestions given to you during the professional hypnotism.
Tips and Warnings
- Expect to spend 30 to 60 minutes in a deep trance with a professional hypnotherapist. You may find relief after one session if you are really motivated to quit or you might require multiple sessions to implant the suggestions.
- Hypnotherapy, or hypnosis, can cause side effects, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Adverse effects include dizziness and headaches, panic or anxiety and nausea. Additionally, false memories may emerge. Consult your doctor before starting hypnotherapy, especially if you are being treated for a mental illness.
Things You'll Need
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
- Home hypnosis guide
