When Public Health England launched their annual smoking cessation campaign in 2012, since then the month of October has been designated as ‘Stoptober’, encouraging smokers to abstain from their habit during those four weeks and hopefully to quit smoking for good. This has motivated many to stop, but for those who have tried in the past and failed, this can lead to disappointment and the belief that other attempts will be futile. Support to stop smoking with hypnosis in Brighton can be accessed at The Conway Practice, or during remote sessions with Jonathan Conway by Zoom, Skype or telephone.*
The holistic and therapeutic approach with hypnosis looks beyond the nicotine addiction by exploring the background to your habit, including why you first became a smoker and why you have continued.* Smoking is often used as a coping mechanism for various reasons, despite its well-documented and general awareness of the health risks, or the rising cost of tobacco products. This behaviour stems from many factors, including ineffective stress management and emotional challenges. You may for example find that smoking provides a momentary escape from the demands and pressures of managing a healthy work-life balance when you are facing professional deadlines with personal commitments.
Smoking is often used as a source of habitual comfort, especially during times of emotional distress and can be a way to combat sadness, anxiety and even anger issues. Holding a cigarette and the hand-to-mouth habit itself can be momentarily soothing, as it offers a sense of control and familiarity. During hypnotherapy sessions to stop smoking, new coping methods can be introduced with relaxation techniques, enabling you to manage fluctuations in mood without relying on a cigarette to briefly regulate your stress level.*
Smoking can also be a form of social bonding, providing a sense of belonging and friendship with fellow smokers. The habit often starts during adolescence and early influences or peer pressure can play a significant role in why people start smoking and continue to use it as a coping mechanism. Seeing friends or family members smoke can normalise the behaviour and make it seem like an acceptable way to deal with stress. Distraction tactics can be used to suppress the non-conscious triggers related to the compulsion to smoke, especially when you are in the company of fellow smokers*
Hypnotherapy is a pleasant and deeply relaxing experience, similar to how you feel during a day-dream.* Your subconscious mind will be more receptive to positive suggestion and forward-looking visualisation will enable you to picture in your mind how you will feel as a non-smoker, with a healthier lifestyle and a calmer approach.*
To make an appointment call Jonathan today on 07956 855 027
