Could HYPNOSIS work for you?

Discover how this powerful technique could help you to reach your wellbeing goals

- ALI HORSFALL

Want to feel more confident, finally start that exercise regime you've been putting off or even deal with challenging menopause side effects? Negativity and deep-rooted habits hold us back from being happier and healthier, but there's evidence to suggest that tapping into your unconscious mind makes positive change much easier.

Sounds wacky? There's a misconception that hypnotherapy is mystical or slightly sinister, says Helen Kelynack, a solution-focused hypnotherapist specialising in women's wellbeing. 'But the idea that someone can be made to "quack like a duck" or behave out of their control during hypnosis is - thankfully - a big myth.'

In fact, when harnessed correctly, this complementary therapy can be a game changer - easing everything from stress, low self-esteem and sleeplessness to weight gain, hot flushes and chronic pain. Wondering if it could work for you? Here's what you need to know.

HARNESS THE POWER

Hypnosis is a trance-like state of attention, says Helen. 'It's the daydream space we enter on a long run or when listening to music, and it feels similar to when you're falling asleep but can hear things around you.'

In this deeply relaxed, yet focused, state, a hypnotherapist guides the subconscious mind with positive suggestions - laying building blocks for new thoughts and change. 'Hypnosis reduces the functioning that makes us overanalyse, and shuts off the brain waves that frazzle our minds with inner chatter,' says Helen. 'Through repetition of roughly 12 sessions, hypnotherapy strengthens neural pathways and effectively rewires the brain, making it possible to break bad habits or reframe limited beliefs - and the results can be life-changing.'

WHY IT WORKS FOR THE MENOPAUSE