Here’s How Hypnotherapy Can Help You Cultivate Positive Thinking

Source: Alina Rudya/Bell Collective / Getty

“Think positive.” You hear it constantly. Gurus, life loaches, and your impossibly peppy friend tells you that positive thinking leads to good things. But let’s be real: it’s much easier said than done. Controlling the mind is not a simple task. If you could just snap your fingers and turn your mind into a happier environment, you would. Maybe you’ve tried some techniques, like meditation, mantras and motivational sticky notes all over your mirror, but they’re not working.

Adjusting your thoughts towards a more positive outlook is a worthy endeavor. According to the Mayo Clinic, a more optimistic outlook can help you live longer , fight cancer, boost your immunity and even lower your pain levels. Positive thinking doesn’t only fight the bad stuff, though – it can help you unlock your best life. Oprah is famous for touting the benefits of positive thinking and has often said it’s been the single most potent tool in her success story.

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t stop the rumination and negative thinking, it could be time to try something new. Hypnotherapy has reportedly helped people adjust their mindset to a sunnier one. If you’re ready to give it a try, here’s what you should know about using hypnotherapy for positive thinking.

How Does Hypnotherapy Work?

Source: StockRocket / Getty

There is a lot of information as well as misinformation about hypnosis. So, first, it’s important to understand that, unlike what you see in movies and TV shows, you don’t lose control over your actions during hypnosis. You remain awake and in control of yourself.

To start your session, your hypnotherapist will speak in a gentle tone and describe relaxing imagery. They will do this repetitively, and simple, rhythmic music might play in the background. The point of this is to cultivate a sense of deep relaxation, well-being, and a feeling of security.

When you reach a state of hypnosis, your breathing will slow down, your heart rate and pulse will drop, and your metabolic rate will slow down. Once you’ve achieved this state, the idea is that you have bypassed the conscious mind and have tapped into the unconscious mind. From here, you are open to suggestions about changing your behaviors.