Modalities

Including Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), Guided Imagery, Biofeedback & Hypnosis

Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)

Neuro Linguistic Programming was developed in the 1970's by Richard Bandler (mathematician) and Dr. John Grindel (linguist) who studied and modeled exceptional communicators in the domains of therapy, business, law and education. They created a repertoire of tools and techniques in order to enable people to model human excellence in a wide variety of fields, to communicate effectively in any kind of context, to become influential with others and to make effective choices in order to attain goals.

Neuro refers to the autonomic nervous system through which we process experiences via our five senses (Visual-Auditory-Kinesthetic-Olfactory-Gustatory). Our emotions are the results of our perceptions. We can learn how to manage our emotional state in order to master our behaviours.

Linguistic refers to language and non-verbal symbol systems, which are the "maps" that translate our personal representations of the world as well as our organization of thoughts. We can learn to communicate more effectively.

Programming refers to the process of getting ourselves into regular and systematic patterns of responses, those responses that habituate into dependable habits. We are able to change unwanted programs, which lead us to limiting habits, and ultimately take control of our lives.

You will learn to:

• Understand your patterns and modify limiting behaviors

• Create resourceful states for yourselves and others

• Become effective in reading other people's behaviors and learn to respond accordingly

• Structure your language in order to influence others with integrity, at both conscious and unconscious levels

• Improve your communication skills and enrich your relationships with others

• Use your mind as a resource in order to become the master of your destiny

Guided Imagery

A relaxation technique used to assist clients in coping with stress, tension, uncertainties, pain, depression or illness. It can be used to promote a sense of inner calm and peace when presented with a stressful situation.

It is a process using the power of the mind to assist the body to heal, maintain health or relax. It involves an "inner communication" using an active imagination with visualization. The process can engage memories of all the senses to gain insight from within while forming an emotional connection between the mind, body and spirit.

Imagery has a remarkable affect on heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen intake, brain waves, body temperature, digestion, sexual arousal and hormonal balances. Certain symptoms and illnesses seem to be more receptive to imagery such as conditions caused or aggravated by stress (i.e., angina, blood pressure, blood sugar, cardiac symptoms, headaches, pain, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory conditions, insomnia, auto-immune disorders, etc.)

Relaxation is essential for imagery success as it allows the mind to be open and receptive to new information. Not only does it reduce muscle tension, but also enhances the production of images and triggers the subconscious, which stimulates the emotions. When the mind is calm and clear, it is able to accept positive images and suggestions that may enhance physical and emotional healing.

Imagery can enhance coping with lifestyle changes (i.e. losses, job changes, and illnesses) and relationships. It can assist with weight loss programs, smoking cessation or with conditions that require medical or surgical interventions. It can be a vehicle to identify and communicate one's inner feelings and be beneficial to those in need during stressful or difficult times. It allows those to feel more comfortable expressing themselves when dealing with a representation of the issue. Imagery provides an opportunity to focus on positive thoughts and images, thus allowing a much welcomed "temporary mental refuge".

Biofeedback

Biofeedback uses an electronic device to measure physiological responses. Some of the technology used is; EMG (electromyogram measuring muscle response), TEMP (peripheral blood flow measure), heart rate, SCL (adrenaline mediated responses) or EEG (brain waves).

As the subject learns deep breathing relaxation techniques, the physical responses are displayed on the devices readout. The subject can see the effect that their efforts at relaxation are producing.

One of the more advanced systems in use incorporates biofeedback into a computer game environment. This system uses SCL (skin Conductance Level) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV). SCL measures sweat gland activity. Increased perspiration indicates increased autonomic nervous system activation which is associated with increased energy-both positive, like excitement and negative, like nervousness.

HRV is calculated from the differences in heart rate from one heartbeat to another. No two intervals are exactly the same. Greater HRV is a healthy goal. People who exhibit this tend to live longer and enjoy life more. The study of HRV is the fastest growing area of interest in Biofeedback. It provides important methods of working with our own physiology.

Early research strongly indicates that increases in HRV, creates coherence in the spectrum of brainwave patterns and HRV boosting the immune system. Also in the state of coherence, the desired vibration pattern ripples around the subject affecting the natural electromagnetic field in a doughnut shape that is detectable up to eight feet away. This even shows up in other people the subject touches.

Biofeedback becomes a powerful tool in creating a relaxed healthy state. As the subject gains experience with biofeedback, the responses learned can be created at any time.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a treatment intervention comprised of inducing the client into a relaxed, suggestible state and then offering post-hypnotic suggestions for relief from symptoms. This is a focused concentration where the body is relaxed but the mind is alert and aware. Direct access to the subconscious is achieved through hypnosis, thus, bypassing the critical mind to effect the change desired and releasing the unwanted behavior with ease and comfort. Now your subconscious is working for you instead of against you.

A client's responsiveness to hypnosis is greatest when he believes that he can be hypnotized and has confidence that the Hypnotherapist is competent and trustworthy. Clients who undergo hypnosis usually feel that the undertaking is safe, appropriate, and in harmony with their wishes. The client is always in control of his thoughts, feelings and actions. Rapport must be established between the Hypnotherapist and the client. Hypnosis is conducted in a safe environment and in confidence.