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The Power of Breath: Harnessing Calmness in the Storm of Anxiety

 

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, anxiety has become a prevalent companion for many. Whether it’s the pressure of work deadlines, social expectations, or personal challenges, the weight of anxiety can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, amidst the chaos, there exists a simple yet potent tool: the breath.

The breath is more than just a biological function to sustain life; it’s a gateway to tranquillity, a pathway to inner peace. For centuries, various cultures and spiritual traditions have recognized the profound connection between breath and emotional well-being. Today, science is catching up, unveiling the physiological mechanisms behind this age-old wisdom.

Anxiety often triggers the body’s stress response, flooding it with hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, preparing for a perceived threat. This physiological reaction manifests as rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and tense muscles, perpetuating the cycle of anxiety. However, by consciously engaging with the breath, we can disrupt this cycle and invite a sense of calmness.

One of the simplest yet most effective breathing techniques is diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing. To practice this technique, find a quiet space where you can sit or lie down comfortably. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose, allowing your diaphragm to expand. Feel your abdomen rise as you inhale, and then slowly exhale through your mouth, feeling your abdomen fall. Continue this pattern for several minutes, focusing on the sensation of the breath moving in and out of your body.

As you engage in diaphragmatic breathing, you activate the body’s relaxation response, signaling to the brain that it’s safe to calm down. This prompts a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, fostering a state of relaxation and reducing feelings of anxiety.

Another effective technique is mindfulness meditation, which incorporates focused attention on the breath to cultivate present-moment awareness. By observing the breath without judgment, we learn to acknowledge and accept our thoughts and emotions without becoming entangled in them. This practice enhances self-awareness and resilience, empowering us to navigate challenging situations with greater ease

In addition to these techniques, progressive muscle relaxation involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in the body, coupled with rhythmic breathing. This practice promotes physical and mental relaxation, releasing stored tension and promoting a sense of calm.

Incorporating breathwork into your daily routine can yield profound benefits for managing anxiety. Whether practiced for a few minutes each day or during moments of heightened stress, the breath serves as a steadfast anchor amidst life’s storms.

However, it’s essential to recognize that breathwork is not a panacea for anxiety; it’s one tool among many in a comprehensive self-care toolkit. For individuals with severe or persistent anxiety, seeking professional support from a therapist or counsellor is crucial.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember the inherent power within us—the power of the breath to soothe, to ground, and to guide us back to the present moment. In the ebb and flow of life, may we find solace in the rhythmic dance of our breath, a constant reminder that calmness resides within us, always accessible, always available.

 

To your inner peace and happiness.

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Using hypnosis to overcome Anxiety and Stress:

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s no secret that anxiety and stress have become all too common. From the pressures of work and finances to the constant bombardment of information and social media, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and on edge. While traditional treatments like medication and therapy have their place, there’s a lesser-known but highly effective tool that’s gaining recognition in the realm of mental health: hypnosis.

Hypnosis, often misunderstood and misrepresented, is a state of deep relaxation and heightened focus where the mind becomes receptive to positive suggestions. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about losing control or falling into a trance-like state; instead, it’s a collaborative process between the individual and the trained practitioner to access the subconscious mind and promote healing and transformation.

So how exactly can hypnosis help with anxiety and stress?

Addressing Root Causes: One of the key benefits of hypnosis is its ability to delve deep into the subconscious mind to uncover the underlying causes of anxiety and stress. Often, these issues stem from past experiences, traumas, or negative beliefs that have become deeply ingrained over time. By accessing the subconscious, hypnosis allows individuals to identify and reframe these root causes, paving the way for lasting relief.

Changing Thought Patterns: Anxiety and stress are fuelled by repetitive negative thoughts and worries that seem to spiral out of control. Through hypnosis, individuals can learn to break free from these destructive thought patterns and replace them with more positive and empowering beliefs. By implanting suggestions for relaxation, calmness, and confidence, hypnosis helps rewire the brain to respond differently to stress triggers.

Building Coping Strategies: Hypnosis can also be used to teach individuals practical coping strategies for managing anxiety and stress in their daily lives. This may involve visualization techniques, breathing exercises, or self-hypnosis scripts that can be used whenever feelings of stress or anxiety arise. By practicing these techniques regularly, individuals can strengthen their resilience and become better equipped to handle life’s challenges.

Promoting Relaxation and Calm: At its core, hypnosis is a deeply relaxing experience that promotes a sense of inner peace and calmness. By inducing a state of deep relaxation, hypnosis helps reduce the physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, and shallow breathing. This not only provides immediate relief but also trains the body and mind to respond more calmly to stressors over time.

Empowering Self-Management: Perhaps most importantly, hypnosis empowers individuals to take control of their own mental health and well-being. Unlike medication, which can sometimes feel like a passive solution, hypnosis requires active participation and engagement from the individual. By learning to access the power of their own subconscious mind, individuals become agents of their own healing and transformation.

In conclusion, hypnosis offers a unique and powerful approach to overcoming anxiety and stress. By tapping into the subconscious mind, addressing root causes, and promoting relaxation and empowerment, hypnosis can provide lasting relief for those struggling with these common mental health challenges. Whether used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, hypnosis has the potential to unlock new pathways to healing and help you reclaim their peace of mind.

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10 Ways to Beat Anxiety and Take Control of Your Life.

Do you feel like anxiety has taken the reins of your life, steering you into a whirlwind of worry and fear? You’re not alone. Anxiety affects millions of people worldwide, but the good news is, you don’t have to let it dictate your existence. In this blog post I would like to share with you ten useful strategies you can implement now to help you beat anxiety and reclaim control over your life.

1. Practice Mindfulness Meditation: One of the most effective ways to combat anxiety is through mindfulness meditation. By focusing on the present moment and observing your thoughts without judgment, you can cultivate a sense of inner calm and reduce anxiety levels significantly.

2. Engage in Regular Exercise: Physical activity isn’t just beneficial for your body; it’s also a powerful tool for managing anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins, your body’s natural stress reliever, and helps regulate mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week for maximum benefit.

3. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Lack of sleep can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, so prioritizing good sleep hygiene is crucial. Set a regular bedtime and wake-up time, create a relaxing bedtime ritual, and avoid caffeine and screens before bed to ensure restful sleep.

4. Limit Exposure to Stressors: Identify sources of stress in your life and take proactive steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible. Whether it’s reducing your workload, setting boundaries in relationships, or practicing time management techniques, prioritize your mental well-being by reducing unnecessary stressors.

5. Cultivate a Supportive Social Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who uplift and encourage you. Having a strong support system can provide comfort during challenging times and serve as a buffer against anxiety.

6. Challenge Negative Thought Patterns: Anxiety often stems from irrational and negative thinking patterns. Learn to identify and challenge these thoughts by asking yourself if they’re based on facts or assumptions. Replace negative thoughts with more realistic and positive alternatives to reframe your mindset.

7. Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life. Therapy, counselling, and medication can provide valuable support and guidance in managing anxiety symptoms.

8. Practice Self-Care Regularly: Make self-care a priority in your life by engaging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s indulging in a bubble bath, spending time in nature, or pursuing a hobby you love, prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

9. Learn Stress Management Techniques: Arm yourself with a toolbox of stress management techniques to deploy when anxiety strikes. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization techniques can all help reduce anxiety in the moment.

10. Stay Present and Focus on What You Can Control: Instead of dwelling on hypothetical future scenarios or past mistakes, focus on the present moment and what you can control right now. Practice acceptance and let go of the need to control everything, allowing yourself to experience life with greater ease and resilience.

By incorporating these ten strategies into your daily life, you can take proactive steps towards beating anxiety and reclaiming control over your life. Remember, overcoming anxiety is a journey, but with perseverance and dedication, you can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. You deserve a life filled with peace, joy, and fulfilment – don’t let anxiety hold you back from achieving it.

To your well-being and happiness.

 

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Embracing Serenity: The Transformative Power of Mindfulness Techniques for Stress Reduction

 

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, stress has become an unwelcome companion for many. The constant demands of work, relationships, and the fast-paced world around us can leave us feeling overwhelmed. However, amidst the chaos, there exists a beacon of tranquillity – mindfulness. Following are a few effective mindfulness techniques you can apply to reduce stress and experience a calmer, more centred life.

At its core, mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. It’s about cultivating awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings with acceptance. By embracing mindfulness, you open the door to a powerful tool that can transform your relationship with stress.

  1. The Breath of Calm: Begin your journey to stress reduction by focusing on your breath. In moments of tension, take a pause and engage in deep, intentional breathing. Feel the rhythm of your breath, and let it anchor you to the present moment. This simple act can instantly alleviate stress and bring a sense of calm.
  2. Mindful Meditation: Dedicate a few minutes each day to mindful meditation. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and direct your attention inward. Guided meditations or simply focusing on your breath can help quiet the mind, reducing stress and promoting a sense of inner peace.
  3. Body Scan Technique: Conduct a mental scan of your body, paying attention to each area and releasing any tension you may discover. This technique not only promotes relaxation but also enhances body awareness, making it an effective stress-reduction tool.
  4. Gratitude Journaling: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude by maintaining a journal. Regularly jot down moments, people, or experiences you are thankful for. Shifting your focus to positive aspects of life can counteract stress and foster a more optimistic outlook.
  5. Mindful Eating: Transform your meals into moments of mindfulness. Pay attention to the colours, textures, and flavours of your food. Eating slowly and savouring each bite not only enhances your dining experience but also reduces stress by promoting mindful awareness.
  6. Nature Connection: Step outside and immerse yourself in nature. Whether it’s a park, a garden, or a quiet trail, being in nature provides a natural setting for mindfulness. Observe the sights, sounds, and sensations around you, allowing stress to dissipate in the embrace of nature.
  7. Digital Detox: Unplug from the constant stream of information by incorporating digital detox moments into your day. Turn off notifications, step away from screens, and allow yourself to be fully present in the real world. This break can significantly reduce stress associated with information overload.
  8. Mindful Movement: Engage in activities that combine movement with mindfulness, such as yoga or tai chi. These practices not only promote physical well-being but also cultivate a mind-body connection that is essential for stress reduction.

Conclusion: In the journey to stress reduction, mindfulness emerges as a guiding light, offering solace and serenity. By incorporating these mindfulness techniques into your daily routine, you empower yourself to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease. Embrace the present moment, breathe deeply, and witness the transformative power of mindfulness as it paves the way to a more balanced and stress-free existence.

All the best on your life journey.

 

 

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Unlocking the Power Within You: Navigating the Conscious and Subconscious Minds for Lasting Healing

In my daily life as a hypnotherapist, I am often asked about Hypnosis.  Let me tell you why I think it is one of the most effective tools for change. But first, to make what I would like to share with you here clearer, we first need to discuss the concept of:

One Brain – Two Minds

Although we all have one brain, we possess two minds or two phases of mind power – CONSCIOUS and SUBCONSCIOUS.

In the intricate tapestry of our minds, these two powerful realms coexist, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Understanding and harnessing the dynamics between the conscious and subconscious minds is not just a journey of self-discovery but a pathway to profound healing. Let’s embark on a journey together to unlock the power within you and navigate the realms of the conscious and subconscious minds for lasting healing.

Understanding the Intricacies of Conscious Awareness: Unveiling the Seen Realm

When talking about the conscious mind, we are talking about our everyday normal state of awareness. Our conscious mind is the captain steering the ship through the sea of daily experiences. It’s the realm of awareness, decision-making, and logical reasoning. Every thought you are currently aware of, every decision you make consciously, happens in this realm. It’s the tip of the iceberg, visible and tangible.

The beauty of the conscious mind is that it allows us to have self-awareness. It allows us to appreciate the good things in life and it allows us to decide what we want to experience more of in our lives.

The problem with the conscious mind, however, is that it is limited in that it is only able to process a small fraction of the information bombarding our senses, leading to a filtered and often distorted perception of reality. It’s susceptible to fatigue, stress, and external influences, making it a somewhat unreliable guide to our truest selves.

Understanding the Subconscious Mind: The Submerged Powerhouse

Beneath the surface lies the subconscious mind. The subconscious mind is where we record and respond to habits. It holds an ocean of thoughts, memories, and beliefs that operate outside our conscious awareness. It’s the vast reservoir where our past experiences, the happy experiences as well as unpleasant experiences. This is where your emotions and automatic functions reside. While the conscious mind is the tip of the iceberg, the subconscious mind constitutes the massive, submerged foundation. Most importantly, it is our connection with Higher Intelligence. Its potential is unlimited.

From the moment we get up to the moment we go to bed, we operate mostly from the subconscious.

The subconscious mind is not confined by logic. Instead, it thrives on emotions and symbols. It’s the storehouse of our habits, both empowering and limiting beliefs and the key to unlocking lasting healing. To create significant and lasting change, we must dive into the depths of the subconscious.

Unlike the conscious mind, the subconscious mind is not confined by logic; instead, it thrives on emotions and symbols. It’s the storehouse of our habits, both empowering and limiting beliefs and the key to unlocking lasting healing. To create significant and lasting change, we must dive into the depths of the subconscious.

The Silent Dialogue: Conscious and Subconscious Interplay

Healing is not a one-dimensional process; it’s a dynamic interplay between the conscious and subconscious minds. The conscious mind sets intentions and makes decisions, but the subconscious mind executes and influences the outcomes. It’s like the conductor and the orchestra working in harmony to produce a beautiful symphony.

Imagine this: your conscious mind decides to embrace positive affirmations for self-love. However, if your subconscious is programmed with self-doubt and criticism, the symphony becomes discordant. To achieve lasting healing, we must align these two forces, making them dance to the same rhythm.

Hypnosis: The Master Key to Subconscious Transformation

Now that we understand the terrain, let’s explore a powerful tool for navigating the subconscious—the art of hypnosis. Hypnosis is not a mysterious, theatrical act; it’s a therapeutic technique that taps into the subconscious mind’s potential for positive change.

During hypnosis, the conscious mind takes a step back, allowing direct access to the subconscious. It’s in this state of heightened suggestibility that deep-seated beliefs can be re-examined and rewritten. Hypnosis serves as the master key, unlocking the door to the subconscious where the roots of emotional wounds can be addressed and healed.

Healing from Within: The Hypnotic Journey

Picture this as a journey within yourself, guided by a skilled hypnotherapist. As you enter the realm of the subconscious, you confront and reframe limiting beliefs, traumatic memories, and emotional blockages. It’s a transformative process where healing begins at the root, ensuring a lasting and profound change.

Whether it’s overcoming anxiety, managing stress, or dealing with past traumas, hypnosis provides a tailored approach to your unique subconscious landscape. It’s a collaborative effort between you and the therapist, a journey that empowers you to rewrite your emotional script and foster resilience.

Why Lasting Healing Requires Subconscious Reprogramming

The conscious mind can set goals and intentions, but without addressing the subconscious programming, these aspirations often fall short. Imagine planting seeds in infertile soil and expecting a lush garden to bloom. Lasting healing requires us to nurture the subconscious soil, ensuring it’s conducive to the growth we desire.

As an expert in the field, I have witnessed the profound transformations that occur when individuals embrace the power of subconscious reprogramming. It’s not a quick fix but a sustainable solution that addresses the root causes of emotional pain, allowing for genuine and lasting healing to take place.

Embrace the Power Within

The journey to lasting healing involves navigating the conscious and subconscious minds in harmony. Recognize the limitations of the conscious mind, appreciate the vast potential of the subconscious, and leverage tools like hypnosis to bridge the gap.

As an expert guide in this transformative journey, I want to encourage you to embrace the power within you. Uncover the depths of your subconscious, rewrite your emotional script, and witness the profound healing that comes from aligning the conscious and subconscious minds. The power to heal is within your reach—unlock it and embark on a journey towards lasting emotional well-being.

 

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Who We Think We Are Vs Who We Are

Who we are is our True and Authentic Self that is always connected and one with Source Energy. On the other hand, who we THINK we are is how we show up in life. If we are struggling we will never be who we are. Let that sink in for a moment.

Who we THINK we are comes from listening to other people rather than listening to ourselves. For a large portion of my life I believed what others told me to believe. I learned early that what other people think of me is more important that what I think of myself. At least this is what I thought.

Living in the Flow and living in abundance is about focusing on WHO YOU ARE and what you can do in this moment. It is not about who you are not, what you cannot do, and what you don’t have.

WHO YOU ARE is everything. It is the ONLY thing that really matters because everything hinges on your ability to be yourself and to do that you must become intimately aware of the false beliefs you have about yourself and about the way life works.

When you live in the Flow and in Alignment with Source Energy you know you already have what you need. People who live in the Flow and in Alignment are more than just positive thinkers – they are attraction in action.

They accept life is not always easy and doesn’t always follow a straight and convenient path. They let life unfold through them instead of putting their life into a box of expectations.

Your greatness is not dependent upon anything you accomplish. You don’t need to prove anything to anyone – even yourself. I am here to tell you one thing – you and everyone that comes in contact with you are already great. To live your greatness, you must know WHO YOU ARE and you must do what you can do in THIS MOMENT.

Nothing else is required.

 

Entry # 35

30/11/2019

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Confidence in Social Situations

Do you sometimes feel shy or awkward in social situations?
Have you ever been to a social gathering where you’ve felt awkward and uncomfortable, or attended social events where you sometimes find yourself wishing you were someplace else?

Please know that are you are not alone. Many people, including me, admit to feeling the same way too. In fact, for a long period in my life whenever I was invited to a social gathering I would feel fear and panic and consequently made excuses for not attending the event. I did not understand why and felt confused because I knew that the social gatherings would be fun, especially since I would be surrounded by people whose company I enjoyed!

The truth is that even happy occasions can sometimes be the cause of much anxiety and self-consciousness. We may even feel like everyone else is having a good time except for us. Yet the truth is that everyone has felt shy and awkward on occasion. One of the best ways to overcome self-consciousness or get past your feelings of shyness at social gatherings is to focus on the people around you. If you can remember that other people might also be feeling awkward or shy, you might find the thought of speaking to them less intimidating or overwhelming.

 

Entry # 34

10/11/2019

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Tips On How To Manage Stress

Most of us find ourselves having high demands on our time and as a result experience stress on the daily. In this post I would like to share with you 4 simple tips on how you can effectively manage stress. But first, I have a challenge for you that is going to feel a bit uncomfortable.

Ready? I want you to try to eliminate using the word STRESS whenever possible, and instead, say, “I’m inviting GRACE AND EASE into my life.”
Why? Because energy grows where energy goes, and I want you to move in the direction of where you are going vs. where you’ve been for a long time. This shift in perspective was a huge one for me!

Now for my few tips on how to manage stress:

1. When your to-do list is a mile long, move some of your “by when” dates to more realistic ones.
2. Look at your list and see how many things fall into the URGENT category vs. the IMPORTANT category. Very few things are truly urgent, and when you operate in urgent mode all the time, it is hard to experience grace and ease.
3. Get it all out of your head and onto the list. Make your list, and then break down each item into smaller steps or sub tasks.
4. Practice deep breathing. Did you know that your body cannot experience stress while you’re taking deep breaths? The way you breathe affects your whole body. Breathing exercises are a good way to relax, reduce tension, and relieve stress.

Have you ever noticed how you breathe when you feel relaxed and how relaxed you feel when you breathe deeply?

How amazing is that?

Why don’t you have a go at these 4 tips now and see how you feel!

 

Entry # 33

15/10/2019

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Our Unique Purpose

Each one of us comes into this life with a unique purpose. There is something very specific that we are here to be, to do or to create, that will enhance the lives of all those we come in contact with, and bring us the greatest joy and deepest fulfilment in the process.

The natural next step is for us to create a clear vision for our future that is aligned with our true calling, so that we have something to actually live into. One of the ways of creating that clear vision is through meditation. Meditation is simply a way of quieting the mind, a way of silencing the mental chatter, so we can relax and hear our inner voice, the “small, quiet voice within” that always seeks to guide us toward a life of purpose, fulfilment, happiness and joy.

I want you to know that here is no coincidence in the Universe, and nothing happens by chance or by accident. Each event and adventure is called to our Self by our Self in order that we might create and experience who we really are. It is no accident that you find yourself reading this blog. It is an opportunity for you to seek and gain greater clarity around your life’s purpose and to align your life with it.

 

Entry # 32

07/10/2019

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Being Comfortable With Our Sadness And Grief

Last week was a particularly sad one for me as I mourned the passing of a loved one. As I shared my feelings of grief with a friend, I was reminded that, allowing ourselves to feel our sadness takes the courage to believe that we can bear the pain of our loss and still know that we will come out safely on the other side.

The last thing most of us want to hear or think about when we are dealing with profound feelings of sadness is that deep learning can be found in this place. In the midst of our pain, we often feel picked on by life, or overwhelmed by the enormity of some loss, or simply too exhausted to try and examine the situation. We may feel far too disappointed and angry to look for anything resembling a bright side to our suffering. Still, somewhere in our hearts, we know that we will eventually emerge from the depths into the light of greater awareness. Remembering this truth, no matter how elusive it seems, can help.

The other thing we often would rather not hear when we are dealing with intense sadness is that the only way out of it is through it. Sitting with our sadness takes the courage to believe that we can bear the pain and the faith that we will come out the other side. With courage, we can allow ourselves to cycle through the grieving process with full inner permission to experience it. This is a powerful teaching that sadness has to offer us the ability to surrender and the acceptance of change go hand in hand.

Another teaching of sadness is compassion for others who are in pain, because it is only in feeling our own pain that we can really understand and allow for someone else’s. Sadness is something we all go through, and we all learn from it and are deepened by its presence in our lives.

It has only been a few days since my dear friend Grace was laid to rest and so I am still dealing with profound feelings of sadness.
But I choose to believe that our own individual experiences of sadness carry unique lessons, and the wisdom gained from going through the process of feeling loss, heartbreak, or deep disappointment gives us access to the heart of humanity.

Your friend in unlimited prosperity,

Evelyne

 

Entry # 31

30/09/2019