There is an ever-increasing number of studies that demonstrate hypnosis to be an effective—in fact probably the most effective—approach to getting rid of a smoking habit. Research in Canada, the United States, Europe, and Australia, have shown that hypnosis offers a fast, permanent, and relatively inexpensive way to stop smoking.
There are many ways that hypnotherapy for smoking works.
First, there is the physical problem. Nicotine is an addictive substance. Over time, smokers develop physical dependence. When they stop smoking, they experience physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms—irritability, headaches, trouble focusing, and craving, among other things. The period of withdrawal is short but intense.
Hypnosis blocks withdrawal symptoms. In a trance state, you do not experience negative feelings or sensations. You are pleasantly relaxed and calm. As well, one of the things that a competent hypnotist like Gold Coast’s Greg Thompson will teach you is how to put yourself into a trance. You will have learned a new skill that you will be able to use in all types of situations.
Smoking is also a habit. It is a conditioned response. Your mind and body have learned to respond to any number of situations and feelings by lighting up. Waiting for dinner? Light up. Just finished dinner? Have a cigarette. Upset by something a coworker says? Pull out that pack and have a smoke.
Hypnotherapists have tools to help you recognise those smoking triggers and snuff them.
Many smokers also have underlying emotional issues that they have typically dealt with by smoking, because nicotine is a mood-altering drug that can calm you down when you are tense, jazz you up when you are down, and just generally mask over bothersome feelings. A competent hypnotherapist will help you identify such issues and deal with them.
If you really are ready to stop smoking, the route to success goes through the door of your hypnotist.