Neuroscientist Explores the Credibility of Hypnosis

Neuroscientist and author Marjorie Woollacott has penned an interesting read in the Huffington Post in which she asks a question often posed to me at one of my Hypnotic Experience shows:  Does hypnosis really work?

Woollacott explores a bit of the science behind hypnosis, discusses the use of hypnosis as a tool for pain mitigation and then shares her personal experience with its practice.

So…what is my answer to the question about hypnosis?

If you are open to it and sincerely desire positive outcomes in your life, then “yes”…hypnosis is a powerful vehicle for meaningful change.

Author and neuroscientist, Marjorie Woollacott

Hypnosis:  Does It Work?

By Marjorie Woollacott

Huffington Post (February 26, 2016)

“As a neuroscientist, I consider the effects of hypnosis to be amazing. How is a mental image translated into a physiological reaction that is physically transforming?”

“I was able to lose the ten pounds in ten weeks, but more importantly, I was aware of a shift in my attention, away from cravings for my favorite foods and toward other, more playful ways of enjoying myself: I began to make more space for myself to be at ease.”

“…internalization of a new way of being through the power of the mind. This can positively change our health and our reality.”

Ancient Vipassana Relevant in Today's World

A principal at one of the most respected management consulting firms in the world has published a fascinating blog post about how he employs Vipassana to create a more positive and productive outlook on his personal and professional well-being.

Vipassana  is one of India's most ancient techniques of meditation, having been taught for more than 2,500 years.  It translates to "see things as they really are."

Here is a link to the article if you'd like to read:

Want to be a Better Leader?  Observe More and React Less

Exercise, Health, Mortality - What New Research Says

Exercise is good for physical and mental health and well-being.  It fortifies our immune system and, when combined with wise eating choices, leads to a more productive and fulfilling life.

We all kind of get that, right?  Yet, there is also quite a bit of mystery when it comes to incorporating exercise into our daily routine.

How much do we need?  At what frequency?  How about intensity?  And, can we ever reach a point when exercise becomes more harmful than helpful?

Those questions (and more) were addressed in the current issue of JAMA Internal Medicine, which reports on the results of two new studies into the relationship between exercise and mortality in adults

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Here is a link to the article in the New York Times that does an excellent job of summarizing the results of this new research.

What’s the take-away?  About 150 minutes of physical activity each week with about 30 minutes of that being fairly vigorous.

Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.  That's what I tell my sons.

On March 6, It's Hypnosis for Exceptional Living

Volunteers at last year's Hypnotic Experience show hosted by the 20s/30s Meetup Group.

On Sunday evening, March 6 I will take the stage at the Chinatown Cultural Center in Washington, DC for a special performance of my Hypnotic Experience show.   

The event is hosted by 20s/30s Meetup Group, one of the most profile social organizations in the region with nearly 30,000 members.

Part comedy, part motivational and part hypnosis, this two hour event will focus on the power of positive visualization and its impact on career, academics, athletics and relationships.  It’s all about the practice of hypnosis for health, wellness and exceptional living.

Join me!  Here is a link to the promotional Web page for the event.  There is no charge to join the 20s/30s Meetup Group and a ticket to the event is only $10.

Chinatown Cultural Center in Washington, DC is an intimate venue.

Dental Hygienist Talks Health, Wellness and Hypnosis

Dental hygienists are on the front line of modern medicine.

It is because studies reveal oral health can provide warning signs for other conditions, especially heart disease.  Take care of your gums and teeth, and the likelihood of overall wellness dramatically improves.

Shavonne Healy

This is why I was excited to interview Shavonne Healy, an accomplished dental professional and rising star in the District of Columbia Dental Hygienists’ Association.   

Included below is a recap of our fast paced conversation in which we discussed the dental hygiene profession, health, wellness and…you guessed it…the practice of hypnosis.

Question:  When did you know you wanted a career in the health profession?

I had a modest upbringing, so financial security and independence were incredibly important to me.  

Admittedly, I originally thought I’d work in the culinary arts.  However, in high school I enrolled in the dental assistant program and really connected with the instructor who encouraged me to continue on to hygiene school.  She remains a mentor.

Dental assisting came naturally to me and there is stability in dentistry that appealed to me.  It took me some 

time though to develop a true passion for dental hygiene.

The turning point for me was when I was working in a pediatric dental office and had a special needs patient.  I treated him with respect and compassion, and learned from his mother that it had a significant and positive impact on his life. I realized that being a dental hygienist is more than scraping teeth.  

We touch people’s lives in so many ways.  I truly believe my life’s purpose is to help people.

Question:  Tell me about your health-based approach to dental hygiene.

Dental health is 90 percent home care and life style choices, and 10 percent professional care.  

It’s more than simply going to the dentist every 3-6 months.  It is critically important for a person to be educated and informed because it makes dental health a more positive and beneficial experience. As a hygienist, I am an educator first. 

 

Question:  How about your own personal health and wellness regimen?

According to the World Health Organization, the true definition of health is mental, physical and social well-being.  This involves physical activity, healthy eating, avoiding alcohol and self-love.  

I like to practice what I preach and I am mindful of how I treat my body and what I put in it. I also practice things like yoga and meditation to connect with my heart which helps build real and meaningful relationships with people. 

If more people had self-love and lived their life with compassion, this would be an easier world for all of us. It would be a healthier world to live in!

Question:  You have now tried hypnosis.  What do you think?  How do you feel?

My confidence feels grounded and rooted.  I feel stronger and mentally clear.  There are no negative thoughts in my head; no chatter.  I think this is how everybody should feel.