Could Self-Hypnosis Be the Secret to Losing Weight?
Did you put on pounds over the holidays? Or make a New Year's resolution to get fit? Since diet and fitness are on everyone's mind this time of year, every Wednesday in January, we'll be bringing you special guest bloggers: experts in nutrition, diet, and fitness.
Today, Jana Klauer, an internist and author of The Park Avenue Nutritionist's Plan (St. Martin's Press), explains one unbelievably simple way to increase the odds you'll meet your diet goals: self-hypnosis.
Often excess weight and negative body image go hand in hand. Hypnosis brings together the visualization of a slender body and the importance of setting a healthy goal. Here's how to do it on your own.
Sit or lie somewhere quiet and peaceful. Turn off your Blackberry and the ringer on your telephone.
Take a deep breath, hold it for a few seconds, and then exhale. Repeat twice, each time relaxing more deeply and allowing stress to leave your body. Tell yourself, "I am in a safe place of peace and relaxation. My body is free from tension and stress." Take time to progressively scan each part of your body for stress. Your entire body and mind should be in a state of deep relaxation.
Now imagine a crystal clear lake. The water is just the right temperature. Picture yourself floating on the water. Tell yourself, "My body is strong. My body is perfect. I am the caretaker of this incredible vessel. Overeating is a poison. I will only give my body the foods that protect and honor my health." Focus on these thoughts for 3 to 5 minutes.
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As you emerge from the water, you feel happy and refreshed. Realize that you have the power to affect your own health. Repeat to yourself, "My body is a gift. I must protect it. Overeating is a poison. I will not poison my body."
As you ready yourself to leave the trance state, remind yourself to stay focused on your resolutions. Inhale deeply and as you exhale, open your eyes.
Practice this self hypnosis daily; doing the exercise before falling asleep is ideal. It will help you stay focused on your goal-in a positive way.
Related: How to Cut Down Your Cocktail Calories
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