Every morning, I embark on a quirky routine that might make an outsider think I’m a bit eccentric. It begins with me poking my head out the window to catch a glimpse of the sun, though I’m careful not to stare directly at it. On particularly lovely days, I even venture into my garden, hoping my neighbors overlook the sight of me in mismatched pajamas. My first task is to heat a mug of bone broth, into which I mix a spoonful of apple cider vinegar, before taking it back to bed. I indulge in this moment, allowing the liquid to cool while I mentally prepare myself to be the best version of me—a person who resists doom scrolling, fights off stress eating, and curbs the urge to self-criticize. If this sounds slightly bizarre, I assure you there’s method behind the madness.
My journey into this unconventional routine began when a friend of mine faced a devastating break-up. The emotional turmoil that ensued led her to a breakdown filled with anxiety and self-doubt. She sought various solutions, including talk therapy, holistic treatments, and, ultimately, hypnotherapy. The transformation she underwent was striking; she emerged from her heartbreak not just intact but even more centered and self-assured than before. It made me curious: could those hypnotherapy tapes she had been listening to play a role in her newfound calmness?
Hypnotherapy, although often misunderstood, is not a mystical process involving swinging pendulums or mind control. Instead, it offers a pathway to deep relaxation and focus. According to neuroscientist Anne-Sophie Fluri, hypnotherapy is a state of heightened attention and suggestibility aimed at helping individuals reshape their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The process typically begins with a hypnotic induction—a series of spoken prompts designed to guide the participant into a relaxed state, allowing them to turn their attention inward. Once this deep relaxation is achieved, a clinician offers therapeutic prompts geared towards fostering positive change and moving the client toward their desired outcomes.
My previous experience with traditional hypnotherapy was aimed at conquering a fear of flying. I found it remarkably effective, easing the panic I felt whenever I approached an airport. However, this time my goals were less specific and more focused on personal growth and habit alterations. Given the financial aspect and my desire for something more readily accessible to me, I considered self-hypnosis a better fit. This approach would allow me to tap into the benefits of hypnotherapy whenever I needed it, without worrying about constant visits to a clinician or straining my budget.
As I delve into self-hypnosis, I’ve discovered that it’s not about a magical transformation overnight. Instead, it’s a gradual process of training my mind to shift perspectives and cultivate healthier habits. Each morning, while I sip my bone broth, I take the time to set intentions and visualize the person I aspire to become. It’s a practice of internal dialogue, reframing negative thoughts into affirmations that empower rather than diminish. This exercise feels grounding and serves as a delightful ritual, setting the tone for the day ahead.
In a world saturated with distractions and pressures, this morning routine serves as my anchor. It’s a brief period dedicated to self-care, self-discovery, and reaffirmation—a small yet powerful way to start each day. As I step into the hustle of daily life, I carry with me the calm collectedness I cultivate in those early hours. Through self-hypnosis and the quiet moments of reflection, I find a reservoir of strength, ready to face whatever challenges the day might throw my way.