As individuals seek holistic methods to quit smoking, Well+Good turned to hypnotist Jeffrey Rose for insights into success rates and methodology. This time of year typically sees an increase in smoking cessation clients, constituting approximately 30% of Rose’s practice. Both Rose and his clients incorporate hypnotherapy as part of a comprehensive lifestyle evaluation.

During this evaluation, various aspects are explored, including medical history, reasons for quitting, and the triggers associated with smoking. Additionally, factors such as sugar and caffeine consumption, diet, sleep patterns, exercise routines, and alcohol consumption are thoroughly discussed. Rose’s holistic approach involves gaining a comprehensive understanding of his clients, enabling him to assist them in making more resourceful choices to overcome their smoking habit.

By addressing the physical and psychological aspects of smoking and tailoring the hypnotherapy accordingly, individuals can enhance their chances of successfully quitting smoking and adopting a healthier lifestyle.

Hypnotherapy for smoking cessation typically involves a one two-hour hypnosis session, accompanied by self-hypnosis audios for ongoing support. Contrary to the sensationalized depictions of hypnotism in stage shows, real hypnotherapy is centered around focusing and narrowing one’s attention, and it cannot make an individual do anything against their will. Jeffrey Rose, a certified clinical hypnotist, emphasizes that the process begins with a thorough lifestyle discussion.

During the session, a 25-minute hypnotic video is used to introduce a future aversion to cigarettes. Following this, the hypnotist, in this case, Rose, guides the individual into a state of relaxation and encourages them to imagine a future free from smoking, emphasizing the health benefits and improved quality of life. This positive suggestion helps create new thought patterns and habits.

Additionally, the individual is asked to visualize someone else smoking and reflect on how unappealing and detrimental it is. Through hypnosis, the subconscious mind is trained to associate smoking with health risks and make it less appealing. This approach aims to reprogram the subconscious to favor healthier choices over smoking, ultimately aiding in the process of quitting.