Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a method used by some people to quit smoking. By putting people in a trance like state, making people more open to suggestion. Hypnotism usually is performed by a hypnotist and starts with a series of relaxation methods before actual hypnotic suggestions are introduced. Research shows that people being hypnotized are actually in a fully awake state and not in a state of unconsciousness like many believe.
Hypnosis is said to work by putting the person in a relaxed state and focusing on the suggestion of smoking cessation. Through the power of subconscious suggestion, the person is then able to receive alternate suggestions to fill the spot where cigarette cravings usually come. Most hypnotists will offer a recording to listen to every evening while relaxing. This is said to reinforce the hypnotism process.
Cost
The cost of being hypnotized can vary. Generally it can run anywhere from 85 to $500 per session depending on the hypnotist. You can find a hypnotist that will usually fall in the $100 per session range, however, if you need multiple sessions, this can add up quickly. Another approach is group hypnosis. This is where a room full of people with the same goal of quitting smoking all get hypnotized at once. This is usually about $99 plus additional costs for tapes and other merchandise they will try to sell you.
There is another option of buying tapes anywhere from $60 to several hundred. This at home method will allow you to listen over and over without additional session charges.
Pros
- The positive side of hypnosis is that many people swear that it has worked for them. There are no real statistics available on the success rate.
- It is a small investment compared to the price of cigarettes and does not have any of the medication warnings or side effects.
Cons
- The cons of hypnosis can be far more than the pros. The whole idea of someone entering your subliminal mind can be scary to some. The concept of not being fully aware of what is happening is uncomfortable for some.
- There is no real proof that hypnosis works and you could get conned into purchasing additional sessions with the promise of success.
- Hypnotists do not have the credentials that doctors have so you really do not know who you are trusting yourself with.
Conclusion
There are products available that will help the craving for nicotine. Your physician may suggest a prescription medication or offer you a nicotine patch. There is also nicotine gum and lozenges. All of these products have been proven to increase the chances of quitting cigarettes for good. You will have to want to quit. These methods are only as good as your desire to be smoke free.
It is said that quitting smoking is one of the most difficult things to do. Some say it is harder than kicking a drug or alcohol habit. With the help of family and friend support, and the use of a stop smoking product, you can greatly increase your chances for a smoke free future. The damage that smoking does to your lungs is incredible. Being able to breathe is priceless. One of the leading causes of death in the United States is lung cancer.
