http://www.trans4mationaltherapy.com/
on 04 September 2021
The brain's magic diet revealed

Have you ever had that feeling, that a belief you have is true but you cannot prove it? Well, scientists have very kindly confirmed a long-held view that I have, that the brain and mind create associations with words (auditory cortex) and sights (visual cortex) that stimulate internal mental states that effectively keep us locked into various mental health conditions . . .

more
on 02 September 2021
change the mind, change life

Isn't it nice to know that within your brain, there are individual cells monitoring your mistakes! It's even more interesting to know, that we can create states of mind that maximise the efficacy of those neurons to correct our mistakes; hypnotherapy can play a significant role in increasing the efficacy of our inbred error correction system . . . 

more
on 31 August 2021
PGO brainwaves

A few years back, almost by accident, I discovered the existence of PGO (Ponto-Geniculo-Occipital) brainwaves, so, it seems too coincidental that this research ends up in my inbox; or is it . . .

more
on 30 August 2021
Chronic stress, when the cracks appear

As a general rule, when working with a client, for any condition, I always look for the potential for stress and/or anxiety in any presenting issue. The rationale being, that stress and anxiety are known to limit or inhibit normal brain function. It is always going to be more difficult to help anyone when their brain isn't firing on all four cylinders! The research below adds a little weight to my treatment philosophy, as well as a clearer picture of the WHY factor . . . 

more
on 29 August 2021
copper the element of thought transmission

While the markets suffer and the price of commodities fluctuates more than the temperature of an English summer, it seems that one (precious) metal, copper, is proving to be priceless to who we are and how we develop! Want to find out 12 natural sources of copper for your diet? Then you can find them here

more
on 28 August 2021
pregnant woman

Tell a pregnant mother not to drink or smoke during pregnancy and she may look at you in astonishment! But what would she think if you told her not to take antidepressants, perhaps not so easy to swallow if you are clinically depressed?

more
on 20 August 2021
the zika menace the Aedes aegypti mosquito

Another threatening virus but mostly those affected aren't even born yet! The Zika virus is a strange one because there are little or no, observable, symptoms in the carrier and that makes it hard to detect. So, for now, all we can rely on is our own vigilance and follow the advice that may keep us safe.  Mosquitoes

more
on 15 August 2021
activated granule cells, doing their magic

Researchers activate previously dormant memory cells! It is my contention that both the upside and the downside of life is, not only contingent on memory but a cause and consequence of it. The research below seems to confirm and ratify my assumption.

more
on 20 June 2021
the association of memory and brainwaves

We live in a world where it's getting more and more difficult to tell real from fake: nevertheless, the brain acts on what it determines to be its reality. Researchers have discovered the reason that allows us to ignore facts and evidence and hold onto our beliefs .  .  .

more
on 24 April 2021
Laughing our way through life

Many people smoke, drink alcohol and/ or eat unhealthily, despite that, they appear to want to live a long and happy life! After all, they love their favourite death stick, couldn't live without that daily shot of hooch and that burger, yummy . . .

more
on 03 January 2021
sometimes you just need a good idea

Scientists claim an unknown effect on an inhibitory interneuron related to learning and memory. When over-activated memory and learning deteriorate and when under-activated learning and memory improved. So, how do we personally affect the activation of these interneurons? Simple; we get stressed . . . 

more
on 28 December 2020
the association of memory and brainwaves

While we sleep our brain sets about organising and reorganising our memories, a process called sleep-dependent memory (SDM) consolidation (for new long term memories) and SDM reconsolidation (updating current memories). Our life experience is, to a degree, the collateral effect of these processes  .  .  .

more
on 20 October 2020
Human behaviour

Serotonin and dopamine are or at least should be, as much of a household name as Kellogs Cornflakes or Heinz Baked Beans. However, unlike cornflakes and beans, there is seemingly no end to how much they continue to find out about these little neurochemical critters! But is there a connection to these findings and hypnotherapy  .  .  .

more
on 04 October 2020
synaptic transmission

Memories, we all have them, every thought, feeling or behavioural outcome is, in some way, related to some form of memory, be it genetic, explicit (declarative or implicit (non-declarative). But how often do you stop to think about how wonderful memory is and why you should do all that you can to enhance and develop it? Mostly and sadly, the answer is, very little! So, for a moment, think about that, then remember the most wonderful experience you've ever experienced in your life  .  .  .

more
on 27 September 2020
The magic of memory

Scientists discover a way to bypass brain damage and help patients re-encode nascent memories, leading to the natural formulation of long-term memory. Hypnotherapy can actually help you to do that; without the need for brain damage! Why wait for a tragedy or trauma as a prerequisite experience for a better life?, In some sense, the quality of life is a consequence of the quality of our memories  .  .  .

more
on 23 September 2020
synaptic transmission

Do you use or need Facebook or other social media platforms to give you an emotional boost and keep the lid on your emotions? If you do, this could be worth a read because you may well be on the wrong pathway to emotional stability .  .  .

more
on 17 September 2020
synaptic transmission

The way we perceive our environment, eventually influence the way our brain, then our body, responds to it. This also applies to your unborn child during pregnancy. If you are in a good place mentally, then so is your unborn child but it is also a two-way flow when you're in a bad place  .  .  .

more
on 14 September 2020
Thumbs_up

Every once in a while a real Gem appears about the efficacy of Hypnosis. Hopefully, as the cost of medical treatments continues to rise, alternative treatments, like hypnotherapy will help to lower costs! In this particular article about IBS, hypnotherapy is a shining example of how the human brain, via our ability to effectively communicate with it, shows its potential  .  .  .

more
on 27 July 2020
Brain Circuits

For most people I see, love, happiness and joy, are retrospective experiences. Something we become aware of through introspection or memory recall. Wouldn't it be nice to have more of an, at that moment, awareness (mindfulness) of life as it is happening? Hypnotherapy helps you discover the way to achieve that kind of life . . . 

more
on 22 July 2020
Brain Circuits

Love it or hate it, dopamine is our friend through thick and thin, good times and bad. But like most well-intentioned people, it can act against what we really want, even what is really good for us; that's the essence of most anxiety. Hypnotherapy is the natural and safe solution to the life you want . . . 

more
on 24 June 2020
Love is a many splendored thing

Love is a many splendored thing, well, that's the way they sold it in the 1955 movie of the same name. A love story between an American journalist (William Holden) and a Eurasian Dr (Han Suyin). Things have obviously changed a lot since then and the need to connect with the feeling side of life offers the potential for an effective solution . . . 

more
on 17 May 2020
The living brain

When life is going well, it seems like a harmonious rhythm of your favourite band or orchestra. When it's not going so well, it's almost like you being chased by sirens, the never-ending whaling of chaos and calamity but why . . . 

more
on 14 May 2020
Imaging seeing what is not there

See what you want and want what you see. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Wouldn't life be great if we could live by such maxims? Well, actually you can, for sure not all the time but enough to make life a great place to be. You see, it's what we do most of the time, the norm, that appears to shape the way our brain works . . . 

more
on 11 May 2020
children, mirrors of us

Have you ever noticed that some people are so complex, everything seems like a challenge to them? Each day is a contest, how can I make each molehill a mountain, what can I do today that will really screw it up?  On the other hand, others seem so simple in their approach to life, every tin can turns into gold, water always flows away from them; life is a breeze. While there are some genetic factors at play, mostly it's a case of non-conscious memory construction, based on life experience . . . 

more
on 09 May 2020
children, mirrors of us

If you want your children to have a great future, the earlier you start the better. Obviously, when I say the earlier you start, I am referring to you! You are the example your children use to interpret life and the greater the bond you develop, the more they are likely to imitate you because imitation is the greatest form of flattery and children will work you like a toy soldier to please you and to get what they want! After all, they are master manipulators . . . 

more
on 03 May 2020
moments in memory

What would life be like without memory, imagine having to relearn everything, every day? But while we know we won't have to, it is also useful to know that memory can be as much our nemesis as it is our friend and just like some friends, it's not that reliable either . . . 

more
on 01 May 2020
Brain_puzzle

A marvellous study that epitomizes how hypnosis works, it's about visualizing a different representation of an issue, connecting the dots . . . creating a newer more empowering outcome - Simple really!

more
on 30 April 2020
Asterix, the main man

While we know that being calm makes life feel better, we also know that the world is a dangerous place, it's a dog eat dog world and if you don't get "them," they'll get you; right? Well, actually, no, that's not the way life should be, hypnotherapy will help you create a life of real value, real pleasure but how? Read on . . . 

more
on 26 April 2020
The Memory Puzzle

Life doesn't just happen, it's an intricate lifelong journey of learning and adapting to a myriad of experiences, from birth to the day you decide to do something about it! Something that puts 'You' in control of that journey, is Hypnotherapy. That's simply because it is one of the most effective methods of discovering exactly how much you can control the way your life unfolds . . . 

more
on 22 April 2020
The Memory Puzzle

Some interesting news on new ideas about memories, how they are formed, retrieved and restored. It has long been accepted that the process thru which this occurs is thru protein synthesis, Clayton Dickson and his team have other ideas. Keep an ear out for future news but don't hold your breath, these things take time . . . 

more
on 20 April 2020
Signature_of_emotion

Scientists rejoice in finding a reliable way to predict negative human emotions through the discovery of a unique brain signature. Hypnotherapists rejoice when a client responds to positive active mind management; i.e. using the power of a positive mindset. That said, a positive mindset is more than the mere presence of positive thinking; it's as much about the absence of negative subconscious processing! That much is consequential in and of the teaching and learning that happens during hypnosis . . .

more
on 18 April 2020
Astrocytes

 A remarkable result on the role of one of the brain's glial (support) cells, astrocytes; the neural vacuum cleaners. This seems to be a real case of, prevention is always better than cure and with hypnotherapy, the cure is a very relaxing experience . . .

more
on 16 April 2020
I love that lucky lamp

In the world of fun, excitement, exhilaration and joy, we are mostly led to believe that a reward is something we experience in the presence of something good but that is not the way our brain sometimes experiences reward . . .

more
on 14 April 2020
Pavlov's dogs

Money is the thing that many seek, ostensibly because they believe it equals success. In reality, it is how and why you manage to accumulate money that says more about how successful you are. But one myth we must let go of, is, that money will make you happy, if it did, then everyone who had it would be happy and we know that is not true, don't we? So, are you happy, do you want to be . . .

more
on 12 April 2020
The hypnotic miracle

If you are experiencing challenges in life, feeling anxious, depressed or generally fearful, just ask a friend for help, they'll likely tell you to pull yourself together, that'll do it; right?  If it did, I'd be very surprised but good for you if it does! In reality, some go to a Dr others self medicate. The problem with either of these approaches, is, that the brain is a pharmacy but we are not pharmacists and without proper testing, neither is the Dr! So what can you do . . .

more
on 10 April 2020
The amazing brain

Imagine, you are having a great day, when, all of a sudden you have this overwhelming feeling of foreboding, your pulse starts racing, your chest is pounding and you say; for no reason, I became very anxious! Hmmm, the brain doesn't become anxious for no reason, so what is going on . . .

more
on 26 February 2020
mediterranean diet

Scientists have discovered that the fat is more likely to be the holy grail that extends life, not the previously thought resveratrol in red wine but the story doesn't end there . . .

more
on 07 January 2020
exercise, brain food

Hypnotherapy, the user manual for the brain, helps us better process life at levels below the conscious awareness of what is going on around us, e.g. the daily onslaught of bad news we are subjected to. While the media are plying us with bad news, presumably, because we have a right to know, scientists are finding ways to help us understand why things are going wrong and, hopefully, how to fix it . . .

more
on 05 January 2020
the brain

The dynamic role of sleep and REM sleep, in particular, is slowly but excitingly, being unravelled. The role of sleep states be it during our nighttime recovery mode and healing in hypnosis is awakening the power of the brain and how we can learn to manage it more successfully . . . 

more
on 02 January 2020
cheers

The challenges faced by frequent drinkers or alcoholics also has implications on how well we develop as life progresses. This is evidenced by the number of adults with an emotionally challenging life, as a consequence of being a relative of a drinker . . . 

more
on 30 December 2019
A sedentary lifestyle can lead to anxiety

While fear is a primordial survival mechanism, in modern life, it has been surpassed by anxiety; but aren't they the same thing? No . . . but they involve the same defensive system, just for slightly different reasons. So, how can we tell the difference . . .

more
on 28 December 2019
poor vision

What we see may not be as important to us as we believe. This is because, what the brain sees, or at least thinks it does, is what ultimately forms what we call the outcome. Awareness is merely a human perspective, a consequence of cellular level processes, resulting in an intracellular second messenger cascading effect, that finally results in what we see, or believe we do (the outcome) . . . 

more
on 12 November 2019
redrawing the way the brain works

This is a regurgitated blog from a year or so back but I thought it was worth a rerun or update because of my last blog! So, it's an add on to memory consolidation that occurs during sleep, occurs during REM and NonREM phase 2, and adding NonREM 3 to certain levels of memory and learning . . .

more
on 10 November 2019
balance is everything

Isn't it nice to know, that while we sleep, our brain is busying itself in preparation for the day ahead and building up our database of knowledge and new memories; that is why it is so important to get a good night's sleep; it can lead to a good day ahead and a better ability to remember it in the future . . .

more
on 04 November 2019
Why do we forget

That happy, calm, relaxed and motivated people will generally perform better in most, if not all areas of life, is old news. But despite knowing that, business owners and managers still persist in behaving in ways that stress and demotivate their employees! Oh my, oh my, when will they ever learn . . .

more
on 29 August 2019
Why do we forget

I notice many people turning up late for church, every week, at the start of the service the place is half empty (when it comes to tardiness, I'm a half-empty kind of guy). If you ask them why they were late, time or the lack of it would be in there somewhere! So where do they find the time to while away their day on social media . . .

more
on 25 August 2019
Why do we forget

Have you ever wondered why you have forgotten something or find your recollection of it a bit hazy? And why, sometimes, things we thought we forgot, actually pop up into our mind, long after we thought we had forgotten about it, e.g the name of that face. While you think you have forgotten, the brain carries on its search; while you just carry on . . .

more
on 13 August 2019
The magic of the brain

I often get asked, "how can I get rid of negative thoughts?" My answer is pretty much the same, it depends! It depends on what the thoughts are, over how they developed, how long you've had them (to a lesser degree) and how emotively strong they are etc. But the real cruncher; is, what is your language like . . .

more
on 07 August 2019
Them and uså

Sometimes we need to learn to think like a kid, not so much in the sense of being childish, just in a way that allows us to recapture our youthfulness, to regain that innocence and simplicity that comes from a young and uncomplicated brain  . . . 

more
on 05 August 2019
Life on Earth

Love is a feeling emotion but we mostly see it from a rhetorical perspective. So to feel loved, you have to move away from the semantics of it and get into the feeling side of life. Most clients I ask, "how do you feel" will tell me what they think. So, while it is said that Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus, from my perspective, they are both way more Earthbound they realise . . . 

more
on 01 August 2019
tiem to have fun

If you want to sharpen your brain, speak with more clarity, have more certainty in your life and just function better, then it's time to sharpen up your language! It's really hard to sharpen your mind with blunt ineffective language, hypnotherapy will help you make life more enjoyable and, you may live longer too . . . . 

more
on 28 July 2019
the sleeping brain

While meditation gets a lot of good press and deservedly so, clients who have tried it very often say that it is hard and I think that difficulty leads them to give up? The pot of gold that one can get (figuratively speaking) from becoming a master at meditation, is, for most, too far away to seem achievable. Hypnosis is just as efficient, if not more so, and infinitely easier to achieve mastery; try it . . . . 

more
on 26 July 2019
music to my ears

This research points out the positive connection between therapy and music. Scientists have discovered that certain music really can strike a chord or two that helps us to find a connection at the deeper levels of our mind . . . 

more
on 21 July 2019
Life's puzzle

It is said that a life without a purpose, is no life at all. However, life is a process of trial and error and life's purpose very often unfolds out the trials and tribulations of the way we respond to our life events. Although it is true, that some get way more to deal with than everyone else, yet, often a truly inspirational life still emerges after the dust has settled . . .

more
on 14 July 2019
Amazing brain

Another example of how highly emotional or even out of the ordinary experiences of everyday life can affect the way we see our world and be less empathic, more self-centred as a result. It seems a collateral effect of normal or calmer states of mind is that we have more time to think of others and, make a better life experience as a consequence. . . . 

more
on 07 July 2019
The answer to life's ripples

 Day by day science expands the envelope of brain research, so they are definitely moving in the right direction. So, hopefully, in the not too distant future, we'll get hooked up to brain analyzer, much the same way your car is when in for a tune up and come out in tip-top condition. Until then, I suggest you rely on a more traditional form of mental tune up, hyp[notherapy . . . 

more
on 17 June 2019
making the irrelevant, relevant

Learning to differentiate fantasy from reality. The brain uses unique skills to filter out the relevant from the irrelevant. However, we cannot always determine what is relevant, because, when it comes to survival, the brain prioritises its own sense of relevance and in the process, we get sidestepped . . .

more
on 09 June 2019
The answer to life's ripples

If life is not what you thought it would turn out to be, then you may be thinking . . . how can I change this? And that is a good question, so, I'll hopefully give you a good answer. If you want your life to take you in a different direction, then you need to start to do things differently, and, the best way to make that happen is through hypnosis . . . 

more
on 07 June 2019
The answer to life's ripples

Is life without a purpose actually a life? Well, in terms of how life is defined, heart beating, brain functioning etc. if you are reading this blog, you are alive. However, in terms of your life's quality, well, that's way more than a beating heart or functioning brain, it's defined by your purpose . . . 

more
on 05 June 2019
The answer to life's questions

A picture is worth a thousand words or so they say! So, assuming that is true, what is the value of a true friend? But what is a true friend and how do you define one, do you even do that? Maybe categorising them can help, class A, B, C and U (unclassified) can help. Otherwise, how do we differentiate one type from the other? Like it or not, there are differences in what we get from (or add to), friends and you fail to recognise that, at your peril . . . . 

more
on 03 June 2019
Hypnotherapy, hypnosis and the hypnotist

Imagine you had the power to heal yourself or perhaps make choices about how you want to feel as you begin your day?  Well, you actually already do have those abilities, you just might not know how, but I do. . . 

more
on 01 June 2019
Hypnotherapy and hypnosis

If you have a social anxiety disorder and you seem to have run out of options with medication, or, you just don't want to go down the "pill" route, why not consider hypnotherapy? It really can bring you happiness and inner peace . . . 

more
on 30 May 2019
Rene Descartes, I think

 There seems to be a lot of attention these days to self-centred, egotistical and, sometimes narcissistic, sociopathic personalities. However, some, or at least aspects, of those traits are quite normal and we all have them, at least potentially so! So, what happens when it goes wrong . . . 

more
on 27 May 2019
Lay back and get cured with hypnotherapy

Neurological conundrums - It's not always what you know or even what you think you know that makes life challenging. It's actually what your brain believes about what it thinks it knows; that's the problem . . . 

more
on 21 May 2019
life is the brain

Do you ever get that feeling, the feeling that who you are with, cannot be trusted or where you are, just isn't safe? Well, it turns out this is nothing other than the defensive mechanisms within our brain, essentially it no longer trusts your judgment, it just makes those decisions for you. The problem for you is, that you actually don't necessarily trust it either . . . 

more
on 19 May 2019
Ghrelin, the gremlin within the brain

We've all heard of Gremlins, those little pesky but cute looking little monsters that run amok throughout our world. But what Ghrelins? All things being equal, this peptide that lives in our gut, tips off our brain to signal that it's lunchtime and the need for satiation shortly follows that lead. However, how often are all things equal  . . . 

more
on 17 May 2019
A stressed brain is a no brainer

If you want to live a happy, productive and fulfilling life, you absolutely must keep anxiety and stress under wraps. You just cannot be highly stressed, for too long or, too often and there not be consequences but how do you achieve that . . . 

more
on 09 May 2019
life is the brain

When we are young, we are sharp, agile and, very often, decisive. However, once we pass 30 or so, that starts to move in the opposite direction, slowly at first and increasing with each passing decade. So, the best time to make decisions that will help you maintain your fitness and health, for longer, is obviously in your 30'. However, starting later, at any age, is better than never starting at all; here's why . . . 

more
on 28 April 2019
Smoking how it drags you down

If you are a smoker, then I'm sure that quitting has passed through your mind on many occasions but, here you are still smoking! So, the next time you want to quit, this one is just for you because the idea that stopping smoking is hard to do is one of the greatest myths of all time and here's why . . . 

more
on 24 April 2019
The inner circle

In a world where every day we read about the selfish and horrible acts of humans, against other humans, even animals don't escape this malaise that has existed since ancient to modern times, it's nice to see the seat altruism emerge . . .

more
on 20 April 2019
A sedentary lifestyle can lead to anxiety

We live in a world where mental health disorders are on the rise and, coincidentally or not, so is anxiety, stress and depression. Of course, this is a puzzlement because considering all that we have going for us, these should all be on the decline. So, why aren't they . . .

more
on 18 April 2019
The-mind, the innovator

Life is a funny old thing, we have a vague notion that we know what is going on but in reality, it is what is going on in our brain that ultimately decides what goes on, and, what of that we become aware of? In some sense, everything that we are is a consequence of what is going on; in there! After all, it's all in the mind or is it . . . 

more
on 04 April 2019
The birth of another cell

Hypothalamic stem cells are the birthplace of new brain cells (neurons) and, as it turns out, the more of them the better, albeit quality is way ahead of quantity. So, it makes good sense to do what we can to get more of them; but how . . .

more
on 02 April 2019
Quit_smoking_cigarettes

The more you actively engage in determining what you think about, in a positive sense, the more you get to direct your life. If you leave it up to your brain . . . well, you already know what that leads to. . . . 

more
on 31 March 2019
Subgranular layer of the dentate gyrus

Deep within your brain, some little critters called neuronal stem cells, are hard at work helping you build memories and, hopefully, a very happy and enjoyable life. The secret to that life though is while they are hard at work; you shouldn't be. . . . 

more
on 26 March 2019
Hypnotic power naps

If you are constantly feeling tired, not getting enough sleep or just feel like you have way too much on your mind to get a good nights sleep, then be warned, you are putting yourself at great harm, maybe not now but for sure at some point in the future. To prevent that, why not try a hypnotic power nap. . . . 

more
on 22 March 2019
The problem with nuts

I love the way life comes full circle! When I was young, if you weren't sane, they said you were nuts. Now they are saying you have to eat nuts to stay sane. Jokes aside, there is, apparently, something in these dietary marvels that help us remain cognitively sharper and mentally more healthy and that's nuts. . . . 

more
on 20 March 2019
The problem with negativity

It is really hard to have a good life experience with a negative mindset. And equally, it's really hard to shake off a negative mindset when your brain is off-kilter. Find out how hypnosis realigns your mind, putting both sides on the same page, so to speak . . . 

more
on 15 March 2019
the brain atlas

Your spoken language is the key to your success and happiness. Change the way you speak and you change the way you think; change that and you change everything . . . 

more
on 13 March 2019
sleeplessness, bad for the brain

We all know how important sleep is but did you know that too little, too often, really puts your life, both in terms of quality and duration, at risk. To make life better, we can use hypnotic power naps to enhance brain function and health. . . . 

more
on 11 March 2019
Hippocampus the secret learning system

The hippocampus has long been known to be involved in the creation, storage and retrieval of memory, scientists have now added a little more evidence to help understand how that happens . . . 

more
on 27 February 2019
The power of meditation the effect of hypnosis

Do you have an anxiety disorder? Researchers discover that just 10 minutes of meditation a day will help anxious people focus better. But hypnotherapy enables the brain more easily and is better able to be tailored for specific results . . .

more
on 24 February 2019
stop smoking, today

Despite what you know consciously about something, e.g. that smoking is bad for you and You Will die younger, your reward system can not only ignore that information, it can actually overwrite it and it so often does . . . 

more
on 10 February 2019
The Word

"It deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny ipmrtoant tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be at the rghit pclae. This is because a word is a picture and a picture is a thousand words, apaprnelty. . . 

more
on 07 February 2019
to change life you need the answer to the question

Life makes memories and memories make a life but did you know that some memories can actually break or distort a life? Luckily, there is an effective way to change the way memories express themselves and in the process, life changes. . . . 

more
on 04 February 2019
lay back, relax and change will happen thru hypnosis

Hypnotherapy and scientists working in a parallel way just with different ideas as to why something happens and why it sometimes doesn't. I have worked for years with a conviction that there was a scientific and neurological basis that explains how hypnosis happens in the brain, want to find out what. . . . 

more
on 01 February 2019
letting go of past trauma

If you want to resolve an emotional or mental issue, use hypnotherapy. And if you want to maintain a well balanced and functional life, use hypnosis! Prevention is better than cure but hypnotherapy is effectively both, i.e. the cure and the prevention . . . 

more
on 30 January 2019
man with memory loss

If you want to live a long and happy life, it is imperative that you have the mental awareness you will need to create the memories of a beautiful retirement. What's the point of living to a ripe old age, only to have every day appear as a totally new experience, void of the memories of yesterday  . . . 

more
on 28 January 2019
lay back and relax

The brain is an amazing piece of kit if you know how to use it. Sadly, it seems, many people's brain's use them, a consequence of the way our brain encodes experience, especially in those formative years . . . . 

more
on 25 January 2019
erasing memories of addiction

The brain has a duty of care to protect us but that only works when things are going well. When we are chronically stressed, the brain malfunctions and, unfortunately; so do we . . . 

more
on 22 January 2019
The brains little onion

Another role discovered about the brain's onion, the cerebellum, the onion-shaped structure at the lower back part of the brain. Previously its use was known for helping us to learn important motor skills, e.g. driving, a guitar, piano, or maybe darts but now there is more to add to its repertoire . . . 

more
on 20 January 2019
The power of positive feedback

Giving yourself positive and empowering feedback can be so easy to do but, it can also be very easy to not do and the truth appears to point towards too few people doing it. However, for those who do, the rewards are extremely beneficial. What would you do . . . 

more
on 18 January 2019
Take the stress ot of anxiety

As they say, the best way to secure the horse is to lock the stable door before the horse has bolted and the best way to increase your exam results, is to manage your anxiety ahead of creating it; if you are calm and relaxed, there's nothing to manage . . . 

more
on 13 January 2019
Laughing our way through life

Every one of our bodies comes complete with an onboard management system, the mind and an onboard entertainment system, laughter. One should never underestimate the power of both of these systems because laughter comes through the mind and feeds back into it! It is akin to the elixir of life. . . 

more
on 07 January 2019
The brain's magic diet revealed

If your life is off-kilter or if you find every day a challenge, one of the first places to start making changes may be your diet. It is hard to have a good life if you are not fulfilling your body's basic needs . . . 

more
on 03 January 2019
The brain's magic revealed

If you want a happy and productive life, you really need to manage psychological and oxidative stress and the anxiety that most often accompanies it. If you are looking for a solution to your stress, look no further; hypnotherapy is the answer you are looking for - Trust Me . . . 

more
on 01 January 2019
The brain's magic revealed

Acetylcholine (ACh), maybe you have heard of it, maybe you haven't but either way, it works in the background managing the way your brain manages your life. Essentially it is the manager of the management system and our mind. Hypnosis helps us to selectively better manage the mind and thus enabling a more efficient outcome to life. . . . 

more
on 29 December 2018
when we discover the mind, we discover the life

Life, to a certain extent, is the accumulation of all of our memories. The quality of our life is somewhat dependent on how those memories interact with each other and what the ultimate story of our life looks and feels like . . . . . 

more
on 26 December 2018
There is no hard cell in a soft mind

Recently on TV, the idea was posed to people in the street, the prospect of living to a hundred or more. Some liked the idea, others were mortified by the prospect. But what if you could do that and remain looking younger, feeling and being healthy well into your 90's, what would you think about that . . . 

more
on 20 December 2018
the deeper we go, the more we discover

It is often a sad reality, that the decisions we make, be it as an adolescent or adult, about how our life will pan out, are often made too late to be fully and effectively implemented. What often gets in the way are the emotional memories formed, outside of conscious awareness, as a child but, there is a solution . . . 

more
on 18 December 2018
the deeper we go, the more we discover

In life we are told to focus, to concentrate but rarely are we told how! It is, perhaps, this lack of how to do this, of knowing what it actually means, that leads us towards the difficulties and challenges that life often presents to us. Therefore, as a consequence, life moves us away from where we need to be, where we need to be in order to discover our life's purpose . . . . 

more
on 16 December 2018
brain magic while we sleep

We all know the importance of breathing but, according to much research, less than 10% of the world know how to breathe properly. Since breathing is essential, why not discover how to do it properly? Instead of just be willing to survive, why not breathe to thrive . . . 

more
on 12 December 2018
when it comes to the brain, it's in your hands

Life can be best described as occurring in those moments when we are aware, aware of what is happening and how it feels. Sadly for many, life is their awareness of what happened; after it happened. The lights were on but nobody was home. How much of each day are you aware of . . . 

more
on 10 December 2018
The wonderfl brain, in the background

While scientists focus on the centres of fear in your life, as an explanation of why life can be so challenging, hypnosis focuses on finding the centre within your mind, the place from where peace and calmness derive. Find that and you find the essence of life itself . . . 

more
on 07 December 2018
Our brain under attack

Is it true, that the more enabled we become, the more disabled we feel? Depression as a condition is on the rise, more people are being diagnosed with it, month by month, year by year. That, despite the fact that medical interventions have never been so good. So, if the medical profession is getting better, why are we becoming worse. . . . 

more
on 03 December 2018
At the end of the day, it is the front of the brain, that matters

The unknown side effect of the beautiful game that parents may not know about, but will it influence the choice they may want to make or the one they should. . . . 

more
on 01 December 2018
At the end of the day, it is the front of the brain, that matters

At the front of your head, just above your eyes, is one of the most important parts of our human selves, a part of the brain called the orbitofrontal cortex. In some sense, it is the part of you, that makes you "You," in terms of our humanness, it is the difference that makes each of us; different. Therapy aims to help us differentiate that difference . . . 

more
on 29 November 2018
Reduce stress, lengthen life

It is a strange world we live in, one where people, as a generality, are more concerned about what they put on their skin than into their bodies. Ironically, if you really focus on what you put in your body, you can be a little less concerned about your skin, good skin is mostly an inside-out process. But is this just the tip of a health iceberg . . . 

more
on 27 November 2018
Hypnosis helps you look younger, live longer

While we busy our way through every day, taking fewer breaks, working harder and longer, are we are engaging in a failed strategy? This and my own research definitely seems to suggest it is but if this is a failed strategy, what is a successful one. . . . 

more
on 22 November 2018
Hypnosis helps you look younger, live longer

Do you want to look younger, feel healthier and live longer? Sounds too good to be true doesn't it but it isn't, it's actually very attainable and the younger you start, the more effective it is, but what is it . . . 

more
on 18 November 2018
Lighten up the world

If we can teach infants how to react observationally in specific ways relating to efficiency and inefficiency, how come we can’t teach world leaders the same thing? I’m sure you can work it out, you can’t see the big picture with a short-term mindset . . .

more
on 16 November 2018
hippocampus

Scientists discover some insights into the correlation between recurring depression and a key component of our brain, the hippocampus. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in the formation, storage and retrieval of memories, so clearly an undersized hippocampus may imply a dysfunction to this very important area of the brain . . . 

more
on 13 November 2018
Hypnosis helps your meeting objectivity

How effective are your meetings? Research proves that being objective, focused, positive and empowering, before, during and after the meeting helps you to become more efficient, how are your meetings working out . . . 

more
on 11 November 2018
Hypnosis helps you see clearly

How vagueness ambiguity and negative thinking keeps us from reaching our goals and dreams. But to get what you want, you have to know what it is and define it clearly . . . 

more
on 07 November 2018
Hypnosis helps you forget to remember

It seems that we focus, maybe a little too much, on forgetting as being a bad or negative thing but in reality, forgetting has a really useful function in making life bearable. Who knows, maybe forgetting, what is necessary, helps to keep us mentally sharp . . . 

more
on 05 November 2018
Hypnosis helps you forget the yesterday and focus on the morrow

Depression often sneaks up on you like a thief in the night, one minute you are there and the next; you are somewhere else. All too often, that somewhere is not where you need or want to be; want to change that? Then read on . . .

more
on 02 November 2018
Hypnosis for indirect brain learning

I learned in a very subtle way, about 18 years ago, that society and certain bodies, including some in the medical profession, not only accepts that people drink, it actually expects them to do so; how odd is that . . .

more
on 29 October 2018
Power hypnosis brain learning

Hypnosis, the term coined by Dr James Braid, the father of modern hypnosis, was believed to be a sleep-like state and Hypnos is the Greek God of sleep, the name seemed like an appropriate, if not perfect nomenclature. But what did it mean, outside of its name . . .

more
on 27 October 2018
The highjackers guide to the galaxy

It seems that we sometimes believe that, consciously, we make a decision to have a drink, be it wine, spirits or beers but most often we've been duped because it is the deeper machinations of our brain, our mind and our genes that ultimately make these decisions; that we are in control is an illusion. But the brain is kind and it allows us to believe that we are in control; so cute . . . 

more
on 24 October 2018
One for the road, two for life

Discover the magic number of alcohol, that's right, there is a magic number and if you reach and maintain your alcohol at this magic level, you are absolutely guaranteed to have no damaging effects from your alcohol intake! So, what is this magic number? Read on to find out . . . 

more
on 20 October 2018
Astrocytes line up with the stars

Scientists discover an unexpected role in very important star-shaped glial cells, called astrocytes, and brain plasticity, the brain's ability to change and make new connections and build new networks, essentially the ever-evolving development of memory and behaviour . . . 

more
on 17 October 2018
The future starts in the mind

I like to think of consciousness as our ability to negotiate and appreciate the world from within and the world from without, it is the sense of a lack of purpose from the within that causes us to be over-reliant on the without . . .

more
on 15 October 2018
Log cabin in the midst of winter

We often hear people say, "think out of the box" although sometimes we need to consider going deeper into the box because it is inside the box where the prejudice, the bias and the judgment got its roots . . . . . . . . . . . . .

more
on 13 October 2018
Mind magic

Imagine watching a beautiful sunset and then discovering the awareness of the positive emotions that flow from it! This kind of mental imagery is now linked to improved well-being! What perplexes scientists though, is, why and how are some people better than others in keeping the feeling alive . . . 

more
on 11 October 2018
Quit_smoking_cigarettes

The mind plays tricks on us, quite frequently but did you know that two can play at that game, you being option two. To find out more about how you can play tricks on your mind or how you can turn a tragedy into a triumph, please read on . . . 

more
on 09 October 2018
Daytime naps are the same as hypnosis

While we may think we are conscious beings, consciousness forms a very small part of the world we live in and much of our life experience is in responding to things we were not consciously aware of . . . . . . . . . . . . .

more
on 07 October 2018
The Networkers

Perhaps the two biggest concerns for older people's future are too much life left over at the end of the money and too much life at the end of the memories. As we live longer, these fears become ever more present . . . . . . . . . . . . .

more
on 05 October 2018
The Networkers

I often guess the time, merely to see how connected I am to reality. Surprisingly I have noticed a connection between my estimation of the time and present states of mind. When I am experiencing certain negative emotions, my estimation goes awry and when I am feeling very well, it is more accurate . . . 

more
on 30 September 2018
Removing the tears

While an important discovery about the size of the hypothalamus of people with depression it is unclear whether depression makes it larger or a larger hypothalamus increases your odds of having depression . . . 

more
on 28 September 2018
BLUE JEANS FOR GENE BLUES

Hypnosis has certain parallels with sleep and dreaming, as both involve the presence of Theta brainwaves and, consequently, REM and NonREM sleep states. It is, perhaps, the collateral effect of other brain regions that explains what happens during hypnosis, that make it so effective . . .

more
on 25 September 2018
The magic of mindfulness

We so commonly talk of stress as one thing and that perception is mostly in the negative sense of the word; what, there's a positive side to stress? There most certainly is, in a sense, it's as close to Captain America (Super Woman) as you could ever get . . .

more
on 23 September 2018
The magic of mindfulness

In a busy world, it helps to know that the hustle-bustle isn't the only option in finding success, sometimes it can be found in the quietest of places . . .

more
on 20 September 2018
The magic of the mind

The answer to life's problems are not found in the absence of cognitive and emotional dissonance or anything else come to that but rather, in the presence of what is . . . . . . . . . . . . .

more
on 18 September 2018
The marvels of mankind

An interesting study into how Virtual Reality can enhance the learning experience, I couldn't help but think of the parallel of this type of VR and the type that is created during hypnosis; the ultimate virtual reality using the ultimate VR machine; "The Mind" . . .

more
on 16 September 2018
I keep on forgetting

There is a big difference in choosing to forget and normal or age-related forgetfulness but just as important are the reasons behind why we may want to forget . . . 

more
on 14 September 2018
The authority figure

Be it the expectation of having their staff work insane hours (for the same pay), to not paying those who have left or been fired, to bullying, the Singapore work environment is lightyears behind its other first world cousins, although, to be fair it's lightyears ahead in many other ways . . .

more
on 12 September 2018
The gatekeeper keeps us safe

While there is an amazing amount of research into finding a cure for dementia and Alzheimer's disease, by default, there are parallel discoveries on the why and how of the way our brain works, but, do you know how yours works . . . . . . . . . . . . 

more
on 09 September 2018
I Love Jeannie

Imagine you were strolling along the beach one day and happened upon a special container and by chance, when rubbing the sand off of it (stimulating its surface) out popped a "you know what," yes a Genie. What would you do next . . .

more
on 07 September 2018
We have to think outside of the potato

New research uncovers the reason why we ignore evidence to the contrary and hold onto our beliefs. When I read this piece, I thought ah, confirmation bias, apparently not; maybe it's her twin . . .

more
on 04 September 2018
Clearly we are nutsAt the end of the day, there is peace!

While Love may make the world go around; the ability for us to learn how to reproduce at will helps to keep us grounded. So, the perfect place to be, and hypnosis will take you there, is to have your feet firmly rooted on Mother Earth and your head in the Clouds . . . 

more
on 02 September 2018
New cells for sale

I just love our predilection, if not obsession, for naming things. Scientists have discovered a new type of brain cell (neuron) and they've come up with the name Rosehip neurons, apparently because they resemble a rose after it has shed its petals; how quaint is that, but, more to the point, what do these neurons do . . . 

more
on 31 August 2018
Clearly we are nuts

Have you heard of the "Amygdala?" Of course, you have but do you know what it does? Do you know what it doesn't do? Turns out you're not alone but you are in good company . . . 

more
on 29 August 2018
When life is as clear as mud

I often say to clients, that the 3M's are responsible for most of our life's difficulty. That has nothing to do with 3M, "Scotch Tape" it is to do with Miscommunication, Misinterpretation and Misunderstanding; sort those out and life just got a whole lot easier . . . 

more
on 27 August 2018
never do today, what you can put off until tomorrow

While the focus of this research is on the brain difference between doers and non-doers, it is important to consider whether this is a genetic anomaly or a learned one. From a practical perspective, I'd say it's a little of both but exacerbated over time by the experience of repetition . . . 

more
on 25 August 2018
young couple having an argument

It appears we married couples (although I think it is safe to say, "all romantic couples") might have to pay an unacceptable cost in proving our case? There seems to be little point in ultimately being proved to be "Dead, Right" . . .

more
on 23 August 2018
Right Way, Wrong Way

An interesting piece of research but I can’t help feeling there is an angle or perhaps an alternative perspective or viewpoint missing . . . 

more
on 19 August 2018
use your mind to create a younger brain

Whether our brain ageing, makes us feel old or whether feeling old, ages our brain, is not so clear but the advice is, hedging your bets, feel younger and hope that it helps keep your brain young too . . .

more
on 17 August 2018
the automatic brain, at work, again

It seems like the way your brain asses the day ahead, may actually end up fulfilling its own expectations. Maybe the source of, "I just knew that was going to happen" syndrome . . .

more
on 16 August 2018
Bobby Darin and confirmation bias

I remember from the movie, Beyond The Sea (the Bobby Darin story), the part when his career was flagging and he didn't know what to do, when his wife casually remarked, “people hear what they see.” In response, Darin successfully changed his presentation and his career! What are you hearing . . . 

more
on 14 August 2018
Naughty boy, naughty mother

It is pretty well known that the worst thing to be, when someone has had a bad day at work, is the family cat! Apparently, the kids don’t fare too well either . . . 

more
on 07 August 2018
Never say never

The way we use phenomes in our self-talk, even our everyday manner of speaking, has a greater and quicker connection with negative words than with positive ones. A survival tactic perhaps, that allows us to assimilate danger (real or false) more quickly . . . 

more
on 27 July 2018
A study of anxiety by memory

Anxiety, as a disorder, and its many types of behaviour are progressive by nature and seemingly store traces of similar memories of separate but similar events . . . 

more
on 26 July 2018
seeing may actually be misplacing

A frequent thing that drives people towards hypnotherapy is their unexplainable behaviour, the things they do, that consciously they know they don't want to do, Hypnosis can change all that . . . 

more
on 20 July 2018
seeing may actually be believing

Scientists, don't you just love em, have proved that you really can judge a banana by its skin and we use that same rationale to make a whole lot of other judgments . . . 

more
on 14 July 2018
changing minds of a problem

Because the brain can't tell the difference between real and imagined, the way you think about a problem might not reflect the reality, it might not even reflect the fantasy either . . . 

more
on 02 June 2018
Seeing is not alway believable

It is not uncommon for someone to say, when discussing their anxiety, "for no reason I became anxious!" But there will always be a reason, it just might not be one you are aware of . . . . . . .

more
on 17 May 2018
Oh for just one good nights sleep

Routinely disrupted sleep can alter our 24-hour clock, our body's rhythms, and lead to a whole range of mood disorders, replete with increased anxiety, adding fuel to an already well-lit fire . . .

more
on 03 May 2018
it ain't what you think, it's the way that you think it

Don't you just love scientists! There is such an uncanny similarity between this research and hypnotherapy. It is the strengthening of unwanted memories that bring the client into therapy and it is the strengthening of wanted memories that help them back to a normal life . . . 

more
on 27 April 2018
it ain't what you think, it's the way that you think it

I see many clients with life-challenging issues, very often, if not always, it will involve some level of anxiety or stress. Anxiety and stress determine how your subconscious responds to those states and, in turn, determines the scope of your radar detection system, aka; what you look for . . . 

more
on 24 March 2018
it ain't what you think, it's the way that you think it

There is an uncanny similarity to this research and the way I conduct my client sessions, both in the way the past is reviewed and then reframed. After all, the only thing that ever really changes as a result of any therapeutic intervention; is perception . . . 

more
on 22 February 2018
hypnotherapy for total mind management

Are you by nature an anxious person, have you "always" been that way? These are often terms used by clients, to describe themselves. Fundamental truisms, held at the level identity; that, ultimately, become you . . . 

more
on 17 February 2018
Total brain recall

Scientists at the Aalto University discover that emotional experience is felt across the whole brain, as opposed to just the emotional centres, that, perhaps, are merely the switching stations from where the emotionally charged sensory information starts its processing  . . . 

more
on 11 February 2018
No brain, no gain

Scientists at the University of Zurich discovered that sleep, following a traumatic event, can help lessen the effects of the trauma experience. Obviously assuming that you can get to sleep after such an event  . . . 

more
on 05 February 2018
The amazing multi functional brain

The perfect way to explain the reasons behind why we keep on repeating behaviours we don't want or why some people respond in a variety of ways to the same thing? It seems our brain is capable of learning sameness and difference in a variety of ways!

more
on 25 January 2018
No train, no gain

Scientists are getting closer and closer to understanding basic brain functions, i.e. how and why it does what it does. The most important of those, if only for the purpose of understanding our lives, is memory. In the meantime, we can practice different ways to improve our memory, with speed-of-processing training being mooted as a front runner!

more
on 11 January 2018
manage the mind, manage life

It is often so exciting to see how science mirrors or discovers things that have been known to professional hypnotherapists for many years. After all, the only thing we have to work with is the client's brain/mind! The mind comes replete with a huge store of hidden talents, not least of which is . . . . . . . . . 

more
on 09 January 2018
It is the choices you make, that make the difference

Having worked for what seems like two lifetimes, with the first one being very hard, both physically and mentally. I see a direct correlation in the research below and how life feels for me at the moment; which is rather nice. But how is life right now?

more
on 04 January 2018
there is nothing like a tasty colour

Sometimes I look for ways to show how scientific findings aptly demonstrate what happens when we apply hypnosis (hypnotherapy) and sometimes, it seems, they look for me (laws of attraction) this study feels like it was made with me in mind. For sure I have found studies like this unusual to find although I am fairly pleased it did . . . but why?

more
on 01 January 2018
THe forces that separate imbalance

I frequently look for ways to demonstrate the parallel between scientific findings and hypnosis (hypnotherapy) and this one is a good example. The language we use, in the context of oft-repeated words and phrases we use, plays a big role in the emotional states we experience most . . . what are the words that you use, that are keeping you where you don't want to be?

more
on 31 December 2017
the terrible price of war

A marvellous piece of research to help those suffering from PTSD, or any stress-related disorder come to that! Hypnotherapy is another mind and brainwave changing modality that is an effective - and also a non-Invasive method for driving life change and one that has been helping people live better lives for many, many years . . .  could hypnotherapy help you?

more
on 28 December 2017
no pain no gain

It is well known that stressed people do not usually perform at their best and the more stressed you become, the less effective you are! However, it would also make sense that if there were no form of discipline or punishment, performance may also be impaired . . . So what is the answer?

more
on 21 December 2017
The trouble with the brain

The feelings associated with depression will always be the result of neural processing, a chemical soup that permeates certain brain regions. However, when treating a client, I think it's really important to hear their story because experience tells me that depression is not always the result of dysfunctional neural processing. Sometimes life sucks and that can cause chemical malaise that is described as depression . . . 

more
on 19 December 2017
The amazing brain

I guess we are all familiar with the old saying, "practice makes perfect"? Of course, if we do something and mess it up, then it makes more sense that we'd get better at messing it up but somehow we don't; we improve! Researchers at McGill University have made a remarkable discovery that a "single neuron" can be responsible for dynamic change in the way we learn! this process continues until reality meets the expectation. The takeaway from this is; to improve brain/body function, learn more new things; change your brain, change your life!

more
on 18 December 2017
Counting sheep is merely shaunism

Sometimes certain people seem to lack the ability to visualize in hypnosis, even though I create a visual context, they claim they cannot see or visualize what I am describing. So, it is interesting to put a scientific name to the non-picture!

more
on 16 December 2017
When life has too much stress

The power of hypnotherapy to reduce chronic and unnecessary stress is almost universally accepted, sadly though, it is not so universally known or adopted as a treatment protocol, which really is a shame for cancer patients! I often wonder why that is . . . 

more
on 15 December 2017
Identity theft

Sometimes in life we just don't meet our own expectations, we fall short of the mark. In part, it's because of the way the "I want it now" culture has evolved. Credit cards, overdrafts, store cards etc. make it too easy to get out our depth . . . for some it can be a life and personality changing experience, but, is it really your fault?

more
Have you ever wondered why it is that good people do bad things? - 4.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 05 December 2017
The creativity of the brain

Is hypnotherapy real, can it be felt, can it be proved? It has long been the case that the efficacy of Hypnotherapy is difficult to prove, if only from a scientific perspective, but then so is the existence of God . . . but do we know why? 

more
on 02 December 2017
those early discussions with mum

Given the massive rate of brain (neural) learning taking place in babies and toddlers, it is always encouraging to hear how we can advance our young one's ability to learn. Anyone who has a child will know there's a lot going on in their little minds, even though we may have no idea what it is? So, anything that can assist parents in helping their child's development is worth a mention. It seems that the sooner, and perhaps clearer, we communicate with our young, the better!

more
on 23 November 2017
Your future, in your hands

I am always looking for ways to better explain hypnosis and, through science, the parallel to what happens in hypnosis is becoming ever more clear and scientists are the ones leading the charge . . . 

more
on 04 November 2017
Your future, in your hands

With a consistency akin to that of soft butter, it's hard to think of the brain as being rigid; hard-wired but before Donald Hebb, that's exactly what most scientists believed it to be . . . 

more
on 02 November 2017
Fresh fruit and vegetables for healthy livingåç

The treatment of anxiety, stress and depressive related disorders has been the focus of my work for many years now. So, it is delightful to publish this post because it confirms many of my observations; which are . . . 

more
on 31 October 2017
Default mode network

Could scientists be on the verge of explaining what we call the subconscious? It seems the default mode network takes over when we perform routine tasks, BUT . . . 

more
on 31 October 2017
The power of meditation

Meditation, as a state of a brain/mind phenomenon, has striking similarities with hypnosis. The main difference, simplistically, is how each state is induced. How can you access these states . . . . .

more
on 12 October 2017
Woman_sleeping

Having just returned from a month-long visit to the UK, I was not looking forward to the usual prolonged effect of jet lag. it seems, apart from being an inconvenience, it could be harmful to health . . . . . . .

more
on 01 October 2017
Riding the brain waves

This article is interesting, interesting because it gives a better understanding of the role and functioning of the hippocampus, a very important and valuable scientific milestone. It also should mean quite a bit for the hypnosis community too!

more
on 10 August 2017
image of the instagram logo

The treatment of anxiety, stress and depressive related disorders has been the focus of my work for many years now. So, it is delightful to publish this post because it confirms many of my observations; which are . . . . . 

more
on 23 July 2017
curiosity killed the cat

I guess having a questioning mind, maybe even being a little bit of a nosy parker, may actually be helpful? Although I would assume the motive could play a larger part in that . . . . . .

more
on 21 June 2017
Dishonestly, honestly

When it comes to developing good moral values, if you’ve ever been cheated, maligned or abused, you will no doubt value honesty and integrity a tad more than if you hadn't  . . . 

more
on 07 June 2016
do talk to strangers, it may improve your life

Have you ever heard of the 7% - 38% - 55% rule of communication?  It is often stated, that in any communication 7% is communicated by words, 38% by voice inflexion and 55% by body language; but is this correct?

more
on 24 May 2016
memory stop the erasure

As we age. and if you're not there yet, good for you, we slowly begin to forget things, the name to the face, our mobile, bus pass etc. So, I hope this research gives you (and me) some effective tools to keep the grey matter grey and the white matter white! perhaps the best bit of advice I have found useful is not to accept that you cannot remember things but rather, develop an attitude of persistence!

more
on 09 May 2016
Neural networks empowering life

I can't help but wonder if this sheds some light on those who are fickle-minded or downright indecisive? It would appear, based on the findings of this study, that they lack flexibility at the individual neuronal level or instability at the network level; maybe even a combination of both? Perhaps the bigger question though, is, were they caused by a lack of neural growth or just a poor life experience?

more
on 08 February 2016
the mindful presence of everything

Mindfulness, described as conscious awareness of each moment in time, the deliberate, wilful focus on "NOW." The perfect description of hypnosis! The focusing of one's mind on mindful awareness of an imagined presence of the solution to one's issue.

more
on 23 December 2015
the truth

The immortal words of George Washington, if psychologists are to be believed were themselves a lie, albeit unwittingly. It seems that life would be extremely difficult if we were, to tell the truth totally. So, if asked "are you honest" the only honest answer is no! So, what are the psychological ramifications of believing ourselves to be honest, while accepting that this is not totally possible?

more
on 20 December 2015
the processing brain

A very interesting piece of research about our ability to restructure the way the brain functions and one that may possibly have some benefit to those who suffer from anxiety disorders . . .

more
on 18 December 2015
kindness behaviour

As an anxiety specialist, I am very aware of the role the amygdala plays in creating and maintaining fear and or anxiety in our everyday lives. So, naturally, I found this article both interesting and comforting!

more
on 11 December 2015
young doctor

This is both of some concern but also interest, especially if you have just been diagnosed with depression. Depression can be an illness in and of itself, as well as associated with other conditions, e.g. chronic stress, anxiety or even physical illness. So, it is important to have a proper evaluation, but do most Doctors actually do this . . .

more
on 01 September 2015
parents

It seems if you want your children to have good social and behavioural balance, you need to embrace them yourself and preferably before your child is born! Whether elements of these traits are transferred in-vivo is not mentioned but the fact that the foetus experiences the mother's emotions may suggest its involvement  .  .  .

more
on 26 August 2015
The-mind

I loved the concept of this study, time travel, out of body experiences are as frequently used in hypnosis as adverts are on each episode of Dr Who. Hypnosis is all about using one's innate ability to explore their mind. The object being, to create a sense of an altered reality that takes each client to where they want to be?

more
on 25 August 2015
Treat yourself to a coffee power nap

We live in a curious world, do we not? One minute a thing is good for you the next it's not; then, again, it is! Well, I do love a good cup of coffee, mind you, I mostly have one good strong cup a day. So, having just returned from a month in the UK and still suffering some form of jet lag, I found this article really intriguing and useful, I can now have a short coffee power nap and not eat into my nighttime sleep!

more
on 22 August 2015
mammogram_image_machine

It sometimes surprises me, how science is so surprised by its findings! Psychologist and psychoanalyst Dr Stanley Fisher PhD is a leading figure in what is termed preoperative hypnosis. His basic hypothesis is, that the human anaesthetized body cannot tell the difference between the scalpel of a Doctor and the blade of an attacker. Basically, once the body is invaded by a sharp weapon, the muscles contract. The severity of the stress experienced (at the level below conscious awareness) can affect the way the body reacts, heals and the physical appearance of the scar tissue? That is why some scars look like they were inflicted by a butcher than a Dr (no offence Butchers)?

more
on 20 August 2015
A_group_of_friends

It is good news that researchers have found that being around depressed people, will not harm us. It is even better news for someone suffering from depression because the disappearance of friends can exacerbate one's depression and lead to isolation and loneliness . . .

more
on 18 August 2015
hippocampus

A great piece of research, hopefully taking us a little bit closer to a better understanding and a cure for Alzheimer's Disease; every little helps!  These are actual photos taken by the life-blogging app used by people in the study. Participants were later shown these photos while in the fMRI and asked to recall the memories associated with the pictures. Credit: Per Sederberg

more
on 10 August 2015
The Memory Puzzle

This research poses a potential dilemma, do people with mental illness smoke because of their illness or does smoking, with all its known harmful effects, maintain and or promote the illness, if only to some small degree?

more
on 08 August 2015
it is a lovely day

Another interesting piece of research, who hasn't experienced seeing something that wasn't there; or not seeing something that was? In fact, our eyes can be notoriously unreliable. When we consider that a huge portion of the entire brain relates to the visual field and associated areas, can we truly say that; "seeing is believing"?

more
on 07 August 2015
An_open_mind

An interesting piece of research, although not that new. It is well known that memory is not that reliable and every time we recall a memory new proteins synthesize relevant, new data, to the memory. E.g. a witness may recall what he read about an incident, rather than what he witnessed. Although he will likely be certain that what he is saying is what he witnessed. Recalled memories are subject to interference and, therefore, can be manipulated, a process called reconsolidation.

more
Scientists identify that memories can be lost and found - 4.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 05 August 2015
Social networks

It seems that scientists have uncovered the reason why some people are more susceptible to addiction than others. Whether this will prove to be instrumental in fighting addiction depends largely on the ability to seek a cure for this specific type of gene mutation. The downside may be, though, that either way drug-taking may be considered safer!

more
Science understands molecular mechanisms and human addiction - 4.5 out of 5 based on 2 votes
on 04 August 2015
debt ridden couple

If you are already in debt, or you are seriously planning to do so, this research may help you! Hang on a minute; did I say seriously planning to do so?" Yes, because there are subconscious processes at work behind most instances of overspending and or debt accumulation . . .

more
on 04 August 2015
Man_with_chicken_on_head

Whether or not playing around with your children is a precursor to a good sense of humour, I do not know. But what I do know is, people that have humour and fun in their life, generally have a good balance towards life and living and consequentially, less anxiety! The research below will hopefully help parents understand the need for and value of humour for their children to be well balanced in life.

more
on 03 August 2015
Depressed_woman

Savouring a beautiful sunset and the positive emotions associated with it can contribute to improved well-being, according to research. But why and how are some people better than others in keeping the feeling alive . . . 

more
Maintaining those positive feelings - The science of savouring emotions - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 28 June 2015
The power house of nutrition in New Zealand blackcurrents

I remember when growing up and eating blackcurrants by the ton, or at least it felt like that after gorging for hours on them. They used to grow wild all over the place, in post-war Britain there was an abundance of cleared bomb sites and we were not that far from a place we called, "the country" where there were acres and acres of fields and forests. Of course, there were lots of other fruits too, but blackcurrants were a particular favourite of mine. What about you?

more
on 26 June 2015
sibling conflict

Who'd have ever thought that our children could be the source of successful conflict management? I guess every one of us has known or known of a precocious child, or perhaps even a child that appeared way savvier than their parents! So in one sense, this research should not come as a surprise. Nevertheless, the parental benefit was an unexpected but very encouraging side effect!

more
on 23 June 2015
Pile_of_sand

We have likely all heard the term, "the elastic brain"? It derives from the notion that the brain is capable of expanding, not in its physical size but rather in the capacity and connections. Currently believed to contain approx. 85 billion cells and trillions of synaptic connections, the brain is a remarkable piece of hardware! But that is nothing compared to the software, the "mind", the mind is . . . 

more
on 17 June 2015
The_electric_brain

With attention to the clarity of mind and emotional balance, I have long believed that what we focus on both creates and maintains our mental and emotional states. Are we drawn to things in our outside world that have some prevalence in our inner states?

more
on 16 June 2015
The_electric_brain

If ever there was a study that gave a hint of what happens during hypnosis; this is it! Hypnosis quite naturally puts the brain into a peaceful and resting state, therefore, relaxation is merely a side effect of hypnosis, not the state itself!

more
on 09 June 2015
Sad_in_midlife

OK, so being happy in your later years can help extend both the quality and longevity of life, but what about all those guys that are only halfway there?

more
on 09 June 2015
Happy_elderly_couple

It should not come as any surprise, at least if we think about it holistically, that the happier we are the more likely we are to live longer. I believe that it is perhaps the relative absence of stress that is the larger factor in having a happy life experience.

more
on 08 June 2015
Brain_speedo

If someone told you, you can use your brain much more quickly and way more effectively, would you believe them? Would you listen?

more
Researchers have found a built-in speedometer in the human brain - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 07 June 2015
eyes on the world

I guess at times we all have some difficulty in making eye contact with certain people? So I found it interesting to note a link between personality and eye contact, avoidance and neurosis!

more
Personality shapes the way that our brains react to eye contact - 4.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 04 June 2015
moral reasoning

A solid case for improving our moral code and we become nicer people too! It seems that high levels of moral reasoning correspond with increased grey matter in the brain!

more
Higher moral reasoning equates to increased grey matter in the brain - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 22 May 2015
Depressed_brain

If we ever needed a good reason to treat depression it is this! People with depression may be more likely to develop Parkinson's disease.

more
People with depression may be more likely to develop Parkinson's disease - 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 votes
on 22 May 2015
personality counts

Has anyone ever said to you, "you are so predictable"? Well, that's simply because it is true! But you are not alone as it seems that our personality really does make us predictable. Perhaps even reliable too!

more
Scientists now confirm it official, personality really does count! - 4.5 out of 5 based on 2 votes
on 22 May 2015
Robotic_arm

What was once a dream, is now a reality. The use of technology and the mind at the cutting edge of a new life and new hope for disabled people.

more
New hope for the disabled with robotic prosthetics - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 19 May 2015
Man_meditating_on_the_grass

Although not strictly seen as meditation, hypnosis is every bit a form of meditation like any other. Empirically speaking hypnosis allows us to focus more acutely at both the conscious and subconscious levels. The outcome is observable behaviour change in line with the client's wishes, e.g. to stop smoking, lose weight, to experience calmer and relaxation (thus reducing or eliminating stress and anxiety).

more
Instantly more adaptive behavior through meditation - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 14 May 2015
sadness_on_a_mans_face

For anyone that has ever suffered from depression, they will be well aware of how horrible it feels and how meaningless life appears. However, what they may not know is what other risks there are! So, I thought this research is worth sharing . . .

more
Depression leads to an increased risk of stroke in middle age - 4.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 07 May 2015
Take_a_power_nap

Naps of any form are anathema to most bosses, yet, there is growing evidence that it could enhance employee performance, customer satisfaction, as well as lower stress, increase job satisfaction and more. Essentially, if we were to have a paradigm shift in the ways in which we view productivity; life would be better for many!

more
on 27 April 2015
Social_networks

Are we overlooking the value of online forums in favour of the ever-growing and popular social networking sites, e.g. Facebook and Twitter? Perhaps a more focused online experience will prove to be more beneficial to our overall well being; or will it?

more
Online discussion forums good for well-being, study shows - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 21 April 2015
Beating_Heart

An interesting study that identifies an interesting parallel between the accuracy of the sensory awareness of self. In that the more accurate your brain/body awareness, the better your experience of self and reality is likely to be!

more
on 21 April 2015
Anxious_Woman

Having had a family history, as well as a personal experience of depression, I guess gives me some insight into what it feels like, that said, depression is a very subjective experience! From a therapeutic perspective talking therapy has a long history of effectively helping sufferers, so any corroborative research can only help in an understanding of the treatment regimes and their effectiveness!

more
on 20 April 2015
Mitachondrial_energy

It has long been my contention, from a therapeutic perspective, that calm, peace and relaxation are at the core of our existence. Meaning, the calmer peaceful and relaxed we are; the more effective we become. In addition to that, we find the essence of self. I believe it is the absence of such inner peace that makes us seek this through other means, e.g. drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling etc.

more
on 17 April 2015
Smoking under arrest

We often hear or see children holding up a poster on Facebook, saying that if they get so many likes their daddy will quit smoking and I guess some do, but most won't! Why is that?

more
on 16 April 2015
Woman_blowing_her_nose

For years people have been arguing about the validity, if not the efficacy of placebo; e.g. does it really work! Well here is another interesting example of how the mind takes every opportunity to protect itself. I guess the real logic to this study is: If you are in the proximity of someone who is sick; it makes sense to rev up your protective system. What do you think?

more
Just looking at someone who is sick could boost your immune system - 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 16 April 2015
Fish and fish oils

While it is likely the debate over the efficacy of supplements will go on for a long time, there is a growing awareness of the health benefits associated with fish oil, most specifically Omega 3'. Now for some more of the scientific front in this debate

more
The oily but nutritious truth about fish oils and the developing brain - 4.0 out of 5 based on 1 vote
on 16 April 2015
EEssential_Ingredients_for_brain_health

One could argue forever about whether brain health is second in importance or the most important factor of life; but nevertheless, no one would deny its importance! Truth be known, the brain is just like a computer, garbage in, garbage out . . .

more
on 08 April 2015
People_in_a_meeting

Human emotion perception is a natural function, perhaps what is not so natural is when we think too much or reflect on what we think we observe. I often flinch when I hear people give a body language diagnostic, which in many cases is totally way off the mark! So, perhaps relying on intuition is the better choice? However, the extent to which intuition has been eroded in this largely cognitive world we live in; is another subject entirely???

more
on 05 April 2015

Good news for anyone suffering from Parkinson’s Disease is on the horizon. A debilitating disease, caused by a reduction in dopamine production in a part of the brain called substantia nigra (Pars Compactum), a part of the basal ganglia. This part of the brain, among other things, controls the regulation of fine motor movement; hence the jerky movement and tremors associated with Parkinson’s.

more
on 24 March 2015
Apple logo

How much attention do you really pay to the everyday things you see? Apparently, we think our memory is better than it actually is!

more
on 23 March 2015
A_walk_in_the_sun

Whilst we balance the need to be cautious of the dangers associated with too much sun, we also need to be mindful of the benefits of our daily dose of sunshine! Like anything in life; the secret to success is in the balance!

more
on 17 March 2015
soldiers charging

In a world where all we hear daily, is that X number of people have died fighting a war or other armed conflict, it was so nice to hear this refreshing news! Apparently we, in general, are getting fed up with wars!!! Having seen the devastating effect WWII had on my own father, I'm longing for the day when wars end - Hope you are too?

more
on 15 March 2015
violin_and_music

The sweet sound of music really does awaken parts of your brain that enhance learning, which means that when we listen to music, we aren’t just simply processing sound, like background noise or the sound of a car engine. Music is more meaningful to our brains than just any sound: It's repetitive, melodious, organized.

more
on 12 March 2015
Man_writing

Trust is such an important part of living a happy and productive life and the loss of trust necessarily will have an impact on the way we live and experience life. Perhaps this is even more important to those who feel they have been dumped; abandoned by society; people they trusted in . . .

more
on 11 March 2015
couple_drinking

I guess with the benefit of a little alcohol a mirror has often given us the aesthetic edge as if by magic a transformation has taken place there before our eyes. Of course in the cold light of day, the illusion fades and we are confronted with our reality! But. . . . . .

more
on 08 October 2014
glass jar and golf balls

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle. When 24 Hours in a day is not enough, Remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee  .  .  .

more