DebbieDona

client relaxes in Wisdom Hypnosis session

The Healing Within: Hypnosis as Sacred Conversation

Written by: Debbie

In the quiet of my office, something sacred happens.

Clients don’t always come to me because they believe in hypnosis. Often, they come because something else hasn’t worked—medications, talk therapy, sheer willpower. They come because they’re in pain. Emotional. Physical. Spiritual. And somewhere deep inside, they’re still hoping for relief. For change, for a way home to themselves.

That’s where the healing begins.

Hypnosis is Not Sleep

Not only is hypnosis not sleep, it’s also not mind control. It’s a gentle shift in awareness—one that opens a door between the conscious mind and the deeper self. In that space, the body softens. The breath deepens. Old fears loosen. This form of awareness could be described as a form of hypnosis, where new possibilities begin to root.

For some, it’s the release of trauma stored in the nervous system. For others, it’s a quiet reintroduction to peace, perhaps for the first time in years. I’ve witnessed chronic hiccups silenced and I’ve seen grief begin to melt under the warmth of self-compassion. I’ve watched people rediscover their strength, their voice, and their worth.

Hypnosis is not magic but hypnosis is sacred

Hypnosis, at its best, is not something I do to someone. It’s a conversation—between the conscious and unconscious, between old stories and new truths. It’s the art of listening deeply enough to hear what the body and soul already know: that healing is not a destination, but a return. A remembering. This process is often an application of hypnosis principles.

I tell my clients: You’re not broken. You’re becoming.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, afraid, exhausted—or simply curious—consider this your invitation. Hypnosis might not be what you expect. But it may be exactly what you need to discover the potential within you.

And in the silence… you just might know.

Call to set up your opportunity to explore how hypnosis can help you heal:

727-215-0283

Sunlight streams through a decorative stained glass window onto a stone wall.

Why You Should Use Hypnosis in 2025

Written by: Debbie

As we step further into the 21st century, our fast-paced world presents unique challenges to our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In 2025, hypnosis continues to emerge as a powerful tool for personal transformation, stress relief, and health improvement. Whether you’re seeking a way to break free from limiting beliefs, manage chronic conditions, or achieve peak performance, hypnosis helps by offering a safe, effective, and science-backed solution.

Here are 7 uses of hypnosis for you:

1. Mental Wellness in a Busy World

The increasing demands of modern life have led to a significant rise in stress, anxiety, and burnout. Hypnosis provides a pathway to deep relaxation and mindfulness. It helps individuals manage these challenges by calming the mind and reducing the physiological effects of stress. Hypnosis helps to train your mind to focus on positivity and resilience. This gives you the mental edge needed to thrive in 2025.

2. A Natural Solution for Health Challenges

As more people turn to holistic health solutions, hypnosis stands out as a natural, non-invasive approach to managing physical health. In 2025, hypnosis is widely recognized as an adjunct to traditional medical treatments for conditions such as chronic pain, IBS, migraines, and even side effects of cancer treatments. By tapping into the power of the subconscious mind, hypnosis helps individuals create healthier habits and reduces reliance on medication.

3. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Habits

Old habits and negative thought patterns often hold us back from reaching our full potential. Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, or overcome fears, hypnosis works by reprogramming the subconscious mind. This is where these habits and beliefs are stored. In this way, hypnosis helps you break free from the patterns that no longer serve you and replace them with empowering beliefs.

4. Enhancing Performance and Focus

The competitive nature of today’s world makes personal performance more important than ever. Hypnosis has gained popularity among athletes, professionals, and students for its ability to enhance focus, motivation, and confidence. From improving sports performance to excelling in exams or presentations, hypnosis unlocks the mental clarity and inner drive needed to achieve success. It further proves how hypnosis helps improve performance.

5. A Personalized and Flexible Tool

One of the greatest advantages of hypnosis in 2025 is its adaptability. Sessions can be conducted in person or virtually, allowing clients to access the benefits of hypnosis from anywhere in the world. Techniques are tailored to individual needs, making hypnosis suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds. Clearly, hypnosis helps by being a flexible option.

In 2025, hypnosis is no longer shrouded in mystery–it is recognized as a legitimate therapeutic approach supported by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

6. Backed by Science and Growing Awareness

The scientific foundation of hypnosis continues to expand, with research demonstrating its effectiveness for a wide range of issues. In 2025, hypnosis is no longer shrouded in mystery–it is recognized as a legitimate therapeutic approach supported by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Its credibility has also grown thanks to advancements in neuroscience. Studies using functional MRI reveal how hypnosis affects the brain, showing how hypnosis helps in various ways.

7. Empowering Self-Discovery

At its core, hypnosis is a journey into your inner world. It helps you reconnect with your authentic self. It also helps uncover hidden strengths and align your actions with your values. In 2025, more individuals are embracing hypnosis as a tool for self-discovery, healing, and transformation in a world that often pulls us away from our true selves.

Conclusion: Why Wait?

In 2025, hypnosis is not just a tool for addressing specific problems–it is a pathway to a better life. With its proven ability to transform the mind and body, hypnosis is an investment in your well-being, resilience, and future. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, break bad habits, or unlock your full potential, hypnosis is here to help you create lasting change. Yes, indeed, hypnosis helps individuals achieve more in life.

Why not make this the year you harness the power of your mind? The possibilities are endless.

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Lungs made of vibrant flowers and greenery symbolizing health and nature.

Smoke Cessation through Hypnosis and Jin Shin Jyutsu: A Holistic Approach to Quitting Smoking

Written by: Debbie

Quitting smoking is one of the most significant decisions you can make for your health and well-being, but the journey of smoke cessation can be challenging. While conventional methods such as nicotine patches or medications address physical dependence, they often fail to tackle the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction. This is where alternative therapies like hypnosis and Jin Shin Jyutsu can offer transformative results. With expert guidance from a qualified practitioner like myself, you can approach quitting with confidence, tapping into the power of your mind and body to achieve lasting change.

Why Is Smoke Cessation So Difficult?

Smoking is both a physical addiction and a deeply ingrained habit. Nicotine alters brain chemistry, making your body crave it, while emotional and behavioral patterns reinforce the urge to smoke. Triggers such as stress, boredom, or social situations create a cycle that can feel impossible to break without the right tools.

The Major Challenges Smokers Face:

Physical Withdrawal: Irritability, headaches, and intense cravings when nicotine is no longer in the system.

Emotional Dependence: Using smoking as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety.

Behavioral Cues: Associating smoking with daily routines like coffee breaks or relaxing after work.

Addressing these challenges holistically can make all the difference in your success.

Hypnosis: Reprogramming Your Mind

Hypnosis is a proven technique for breaking habits and changing behaviors by accessing the subconscious mind. As a skilled hypnotherapist, I help you uncover and reframe the thoughts and beliefs that drive your smoking habit, replacing them with positive, smoke-free patterns.

How Hypnosis Helps You Quit Smoking

Rewiring Triggers: Hypnosis identifies and neutralizes the specific situations or emotions that prompt you to smoke.

Instilling Positive Beliefs: Guided suggestions help reinforce your commitment to a smoke-free lifestyle.

Alleviating Stress: Deep relaxation during hypnosis reduces anxiety, making it easier to resist cravings.

Fostering Long-Term Change: Hypnosis creates a mental framework that supports lasting habits.

Through tailored sessions, I work closely with you to address the root causes of your smoking behavior, ensuring that the changes we make are both powerful and sustainable.

Jin Shin Jyutsu: Balancing Your Body’s Energy

Jin Shin Jyutsu, an ancient Japanese healing art, complements hypnosis by focusing on harmonizing the body’s energy flow. Smoking disrupts this energy, leading to imbalances that affect your physical and emotional well-being. Jin Shin Jyutsu uses gentle touch to restore harmony and help you overcome the effects of addiction.

Benefits of Jin Shin Jyutsu in Smoke Cessation

Reducing Stress: Specific energy holds calm the nervous system and reduce the urge to smoke.

Supporting Detoxification: Helps the body eliminate nicotine and other toxins more efficiently.

Easing Cravings: Targeted flows diminish the intensity of cravings.

Promoting Emotional Balance: Releases deep-seated emotions tied to smoking.

Simple Techniques I Teach You:

Holding the Thumb: A quick, effective way to soothe anxiety or worry—common triggers for smoking.

Lung Flow Practice: Restores vitality to your respiratory system and clears toxins from your body.

Daily Self-Care Routines: I guide you in practicing simple, effective techniques at home to support your journey.

The Synergy of Hypnosis and Jin Shin Jyutsu

By combining hypnosis and Jin Shin Jyutsu, we address both the mental and physical aspects of smoking addiction. This dual approach ensures a holistic transformation:

Mental Clarity and Reprogramming: Hypnosis reshapes subconscious behaviors.

Physical and Energetic Healing: Jin Shin Jyutsu restores balance and aids recovery.

Emotional Resilience: Together, these therapies build the strength to resist triggers and maintain a smoke-free life.

Many of my clients have found that combining these two modalities creates a powerful synergy, making their smoke cessation journey smoother and more successful.

Why Work With Me?

As a qualified practitioner in both hypnosis and Jin Shin Jyutsu, I bring years of experience helping individuals like you overcome smoking addiction. My approach is compassionate, personalized, and results-driven. Here’s what you can expect when you work with me:

Tailored Sessions: Your session is customized to your unique needs, triggers, and goals.

Step-by-Step Guidance: I walk with you every step of the way, offering support and strategies for success.

Holistic Techniques: By addressing both your mind and body, I provide a comprehensive solution that fosters lasting change.

Empowerment Tools: Beyond our session, I equip you with self-care practices and techniques to maintain your progress.

My goal is to not just help you quit smoking but to empower you with the confidence and skills to embrace a healthier, happier life.

Ready to Quit Smoking for Good?

The journey to becoming smoke-free starts with a single step. By choosing hypnosis and Jin Shin Jyutsu, you are investing in a holistic, natural approach that addresses every facet of addiction. Together, we can create a plan that works for you, supporting your mind, body, and spirit as you take back control of your life.

Take the First Step Today

Contact me today to schedule your first consultation. Let’s work together to transform your life—one breath at a time.

Kick the Habit: How Hypnosis Can Help You Quit Smoking for Good

Written by: Debbie

Are you tired of trying to quit smoking with little success? You’re not alone. Many smokers struggle with the addictive nature of nicotine and the psychological habits that keep them reaching for another cigarette. While patches, gums, and medications can help with physical cravings, they often don’t address the deeper, subconscious reasons behind smoking. That’s where hypnosis comes in.

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural, relaxed state of focused attention that allows the mind to be more open to positive suggestions. It’s not about losing control or being manipulated; instead, it’s a collaborative process where the hypnotherapist guides you into a state of deep relaxation. In this state, your subconscious mind becomes more receptive to new ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.

How Hypnosis Helps with Smoking Cessation

Reprogramming Subconscious Triggers: Smoking isn’t just a physical addiction–it’s also a deeply ingrained habit. Many smokers light up when they’re stressed, bored, or need a break. Hypnosis works by identifying these triggers and reprogramming the subconscious mind to break the association between smoking and certain emotions or situations.
Reducing Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms: Hypnosis can help reduce the intensity of nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms by focusing the mind on new, healthier habits. By reinforcing positive behaviors, hypnosis makes the quitting process smoother and more manageable.
Boosting Confidence and Motivation: One of the most significant barriers to quitting smoking is the belief that it’s impossible. Hypnosis can build a sense of self-efficacy, making you feel confident in your ability to quit. You’ll leave the session feeling more empowered, motivated, and in control.
Managing Stress Without Smoking: Many smokers use cigarettes as a coping mechanism for stress. Hypnosis teaches relaxation techniques and other methods to manage stress, allowing you to handle challenges without turning to nicotine.
Visualizing a Smoke-Free Future: During hypnosis, you’ll be guided to visualize your life as a non-smoker–breathing easier, feeling healthier, and enjoying a new sense of freedom. This mental rehearsal makes the goal of quitting feel more attainable and reinforces the desire to stay smoke-free.

What to Expect During a Hypnosis Session

Your hypnotherapy session will start with a conversation about your smoking habits, triggers, and motivations for quitting. This helps me (the hypnotherapist) tailor the session to your unique needs. Also there are many practical tips that can be shared with you. Tips that make the stopping easier.

Because stress is often a trigger, there are simple actions that can be taught to reduce your daily stress. During the hypnosis, you’ll be guided into a state of relaxation where you can let go of old habits and embrace new, healthier behaviors.

Sessions are typically comfortable and calming. You remain in control throughout and can even bring yourself out of hypnosis at any time. Most people find the experience pleasant and deeply relaxing.

Is Hypnosis Right for You?

Hypnosis isn’t a magic bullet, but it’s a powerful tool that can significantly boost your chances of quitting for good. It’s especially effective when combined with a strong personal commitment and a comprehensive quit plan that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of smoking. Quitting becomes your new addiction.

Quitting becomes your new addiction

Taking the Next Step

If you’re ready to quit smoking, consider giving hypnosis a try. With the right mindset and the guidance of a skilled hypnotherapist, you can finally break free from the grip of nicotine and enjoy the benefits of a smoke-free life.

Final Thoughts

Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your health, and hypnosis offers a unique and effective approach to making that change stick. If traditional methods haven’t worked for you, it might be time to explore the power of your subconscious mind. You don’t have to do it alone–reach out and start your journey toward a healthier, smoke-free you today.

Call today: 727-215-0283

Active Listening Improves Your Relationships

Written by: Debbie

Active listening is a communication skill that involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding thoughtfully to what someone is saying. This is unlike passive listening, which is merely hearing words, active listening requires engagement, empathy, and a genuine effort to comprehend the speaker’s message. This skill fosters deeper connections, reduces misunderstandings, and builds trust in personal and professional relationships. By developing active listening skills, individuals can improve their ability to support others, resolve conflicts, and create a positive environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

Unlike passive listening, which is merely hearing words, active listening requires engagement, empathy, and a genuine effort to comprehend the speaker’s message.

Here are some steps and tips to help you become an active listener:

1. Give Full Attention

Eliminate Distractions: Put away your phone, close your laptop, and focus entirely on the speaker.

Face the Speaker: Maintain eye contact and face the person speaking to show that you are engaged.

2. Show That You’re Listening

Use Nonverbal Cues: Nod occasionally, smile, and use facial expressions that match the speaker’s tone.

Verbal Acknowledgment: Use small verbal comments like “I see,” “I understand,” or “Go on” to encourage the speaker.

3. Avoid Interrupting

Don’t Interject Your Opinions: Let the speaker finish their thoughts without interruption.

Resist the Urge to Plan Your Response: Focus on understanding the speaker’s message rather than preparing what you’ll say next.

4. Reflect and Clarify

Paraphrase: Repeat what the speaker has said in your own words to ensure you understand correctly. For example, “So what I hear you saying is…”

Ask Questions: If something isn’t clear, ask questions to clarify, but do so in a way that shows you’re interested in their perspective, not just seeking information.

5. Don’t Judge

Stay Neutral: Avoid forming opinions or judgments while the speaker is talking.

Empathize: Try to understand the speaker’s feelings and perspectives, even if you don’t agree.

6. Respond Thoughtfully

Take Your Time: Before responding, take a moment to think about what was said.

Provide Feedback: Offer thoughtful responses that relate directly to what the speaker has shared, showing that you have truly listened.

7. Practice Patience

Allow Silence: Sometimes, a pause in the conversation allows the speaker to gather their thoughts and express themselves more fully.

Be Comfortable with Pauses: Don’t rush to fill every silence; it can be a powerful tool in active listening.

8. Develop Emotional Intelligence

Recognize Emotions: Pay attention to the speaker’s emotions and respond in a way that shows understanding and compassion.

Manage Your Own Emotions: Stay calm and composed, even if the conversation becomes intense.

9. Follow Up

Revisit Conversations: If the topic is important, follow up later to show that you were truly engaged and that you care about the outcome.

Apply What You Learned: Use the information you’ve gathered in future interactions to reinforce that you were listening.

10. Practice Regularly

Engage in Active Listening Daily: Practice these skills in every conversation, no matter how small, to build your active listening abilities.

For 10 minutes, sit quietly & listen to the sounds around you Don’t judge the sounds, just notice them Whether it’s the hum of a fan, birds outside, or distant traffic, focus on listening Enhance auditory awareness and improve listening skills preparing you for active listening

To become an active listener takes practice and patience, but it can significantly enhance your interactions with others, whether in personal or professional settings.

Active Listening Exercise: “Reflect and Respond”

This exercise is designed to enhance active listening skills by encouraging participants to focus, reflect, and respond thoughtfully during conversations.Objective:

To improve active listening skills by practicing attentive listening, reflection, and appropriate responses.

Materials Needed:

A quiet space

Two participants (Listener and Speaker)

A set of conversation prompts (optional)

Duration:

10-15 minutes per round

Instructions:

Pair Up:

Choose one person to be the Listener and the other to be the Speaker. They will switch roles after the first round.

Set the Topic:

The Speaker will choose a topic to talk about for 3-5 minutes. It could be about their day, a recent experience, or a personal story. Alternatively, use a prompt like “Describe a recent challenge you faced” or “Talk about something you’re passionate about.”

Listen Without Interrupting:

The Listener’s job is to give their full attention to the Speaker. It is important that they maintain eye contact, use body language that shows engagement (like nodding), and refrain from interrupting or planning a response while the Speaker is talking.

Reflect and Paraphrase:

Once the Speaker finishes, the Listener will reflect back what they heard. This can be done by paraphrasing:

Example: “So what I hear you saying is that you felt overwhelmed by the project deadline but found relief when you completed it successfully.”

Ask Clarifying Questions:

The Listener can ask open-ended questions to clarify or explore further, such as:

“Can you tell me more about how that made you feel?”

“What did you find most challenging about that situation?”

Switch Roles:

After the first round, switch roles and repeat the process with a new topic.

Feedback and Reflection:

After both rounds, take a few minutes to discuss the exercise. Reflect on what felt natural, what was challenging, and how each person felt during the conversation. Discuss any insights gained about the importance of active listening.

Tips For Success:

Stay present and avoid distractions.

Focus on the Speaker’s words, tone, and body language.

Use empathy to understand the Speaker’s perspective.

Practice patience, allowing for pauses and silences.

Outcome

This exercise helps participants practice giving their full attention, reflect on the speaker’s message, and respond in a way that shows understanding. Regular practice of this exercise can significantly improve active listening skills, making conversations more meaningful and effective.

Five Senses Countdown Exercise

Written by: Debbie

To Improve Focus

Objective: The goal of this exercise is to ground yourself in the present moment, thereby reducing distractions and calming the mind. In doing so, you enhance your ability to focus and regain mental clarity.

Instructions:

Find a Comfortable Spot:
- Before you start, sit in a comfortable chair or on the floor. Ideally, choose a relatively quiet space where you can spend a few minutes undisturbed and fully dedicated to your focus exercise. This allows your nervous system to begin settling almost immediately.
Breathe Deeply:
- Next, close your eyes and take five deep breaths. Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your chest and lower belly to rise as you fill your lungs. Then exhale slowly through your mouth. With each breath, notice your body beginning to relax.
Notice Five Things You Can See:
- Once settled, open your eyes and gently look around. As you do, pause to acknowledge five things you can see. Spend a moment considering their colors, shapes, and textures. By observing carefully, you anchor your attention in the present moment.
Notice Four Things You Can Touch:
- From here, shift your attention to four things you can physically feel. This might include the texture of your clothing, the surface beneath you, or the weight of your body supported by the chair. In this way, you deepen your sensory awareness.
Notice Three Things You Can Hear:
- As you continue, listen carefully and identify three sounds in the background. You might notice traffic, birds, or the soft hum of a nearby appliance. Rather than judging the sounds, simply observe them.
Notice Two Things You Can Smell:
- After that, bring your awareness to two things you can smell. If strong scents aren’t present, notice subtler ones — perhaps the scent of the room or even your own skin. Even faint sensations are enough to strengthen your focus.
Notice One Thing You Can Taste:
- Next, focus on one thing you can taste. It might be a lingering flavor from a recent meal or simply the natural taste in your mouth. Again, the goal is gentle awareness, not effort.
Return to Breathing:
- Finally, close your eyes once more and take a few slow breaths. As you exhale, imagine releasing any remaining tension. With each breath, allow yourself to feel more centered and steady.

Completion:

When you finish the countdown, slowly bring your attention back to the room. Notice how your body feels more relaxed and your mind feels clearer. Because you intentionally engaged your senses, you have strengthened your ability to return to focus whenever needed.

Debunking Hypnosis Myths

Written by: Debbie

Hypnosis is a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation that allows individuals to become more open to suggestions. It is often used therapeutically to help people manage pain, reduce stress, or change certain behaviors, like quitting smoking or overcoming phobias.

Common Myths About Hypnosis Debunked:

Myth: Hypnosis is mind control or brainwashing.
- Reality: Hypnosis cannot override someone’s will. Instead it offers suggestions that the person may choose to accept or reject. Throughout the session, the individual remains fully in control and aware.
Myth: You can get “stuck” in hypnosis.
- Reality: No one gets stuck in hypnosis. If a session ends abruptly or the hypnotist stops speaking, the person naturally returns to full awareness or simply drifts into ordinary sleep and wakes normally.
Myth: Hypnosis is the same as sleep.
- Reality: Although hypnosis involves deep relaxation and may feel like sleep, the brain functions differently during hypnosis. Most people remain aware of their surroundings and can hear the hypnotist’s voice while deeply relaxed.
Myth: Only weak-minded or gullible people can be hypnotized.
- Reality: Hypnosis requires focus and willingness. In fact, people who think clearly, concentrate well, and use their imagination easily often respond more effectively to hypnosis.
Myth: Hypnosis can make you reveal your deepest secrets.
- Reality: Hypnosis does not remove personal boundaries. No one can force you to say or do anything you would normally refuse. Your moral compass and judgment remain intact.
Myth: Hypnosis is dangerous.
- Reality: When a trained and certified professional guides the process, hypnosis is safe. People enter natural hypnotic states every day — for example, when they become absorbed in a book, a movie, or even a long drive.
Myth: Hypnosis is a magical or mystical practice.
- Reality: Researchers and clinicians recognize hypnosis as a legitimate therapeutic technique. Rather than magic, it serves as a practical tool that helps people access internal resources and create meaningful change

Final Thought

Hypnosis offers a powerful — though often misunderstood — method for personal growth and healing. When used skillfully and ethically, it helps people strengthen focus, reduce distress, and move forward with greater confidence..

A serene sunset with a calming stress-relief quote about deep breaths.

Coping With Corona Virus

Written by: Debbie

Hypnosis for Stress Relief During Crisis: A Calming Technique You Can Use Anywhere

During times of uncertainty — including the COVID-19 quarantine — many people experienced heightened anxiety, disrupted routines, and emotional overwhelm. In this professional training presentation, I joined Dr. Nancie Barwick and Dr. LindaJoy (LJ) Rose to share practical tools for emotional regulation and resilience.

In my portion of the presentation, I teach a simple hypnosis-based calming method designed to help you steady your nervous system during any crisis.

Whether the stress comes from health concerns, family challenges, world events, or personal transitions, your body responds the same way: increased tension, shallow breathing, racing thoughts, and difficulty focusing.

The good news? You can interrupt that response.

Why Hypnosis Helps During Stressful Times

Hypnosis works by guiding your attention inward in a structured way. Rather than allowing the mind to spiral into fear, it gently redirects focus toward breathing, sensory awareness, and controlled thought patterns.

When you shift your focus intentionally:

Your breathing slows.
Muscle tension decreases.
Heart rate stabilizes.
Mental clarity improves.

This isn’t mystical. It’s neurological.

By calming the nervous system, you regain access to rational thinking and emotional balance.

A Practical Calming Method for Any Crisis

In the video, I demonstrate a grounding approach that you can use immediately when you feel overwhelmed. The technique focuses on:

Controlled breathing
Intentional awareness
Redirecting attention away from fear-based thoughts
Creating a moment of internal stability

This type of hypnosis-based grounding can help you:

Reduce panic symptoms
Improve focus
Sleep more easily
Feel more emotionally steady
Respond thoughtfully instead of reactively

Importantly, this method does not require special equipment or a long session. You can use it at home, at work, or anywhere you need to regain calm.

Creating Joy and Resilience

Following my segment, Dr. Nancie Barwick shares strategies for cultivating joy and emotional resilience — even in difficult circumstances. Dr. LindaJoy (LJ) Rose facilitated the discussion, helping weave together practical psychology and real-world application.

Together, the presentation offers tools for both calming the nervous system and strengthening emotional well-being.

When to Seek Professional Support

While self-guided calming exercises can be extremely helpful, persistent anxiety, panic, or crisis-related stress may benefit from individualized hypnosis sessions.

As a professional hypnotherapist serving Palm Harbor and the greater Tampa Bay area, I work with clients experiencing:

Anxiety and high-functioning stress
Medical stress and chronic illness
Sleep disruption
Fear responses
Emotional overwhelm

If you find that stress continues to interfere with daily life, professional hypnosis can help retrain your stress response more deeply and effectively.

Watch the Full Presentation

You can watch the full video above to learn the calming technique and hear the additional tools shared in this collaborative class.

If you would like personalized support, you can schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to discuss whether hypnosis is right for you.

📞 727-215-0283
Palm Harbor, Florida (Virtual sessions available)

How I Am Coping During The Quarantine

Written by: Debbie

This is my story, maybe it will help inspire you, maybe it won’t. What I am not going to do is tell you how you should be dealing with the quarantine. There are plenty of experts who are offering advice. Also,there are a ton of talking heads stirring up your worst fears and then offering ways to calm them down again, until the next headline. Furthermore, there are too many Hollywood stars doling out admonitions from the comfort of their spacious mansions, creating a resentment from their fan base. I am simply going to share what has worked for me and kept my spirits up.

We started early in the quarantine as my husband’s company decided to start work from home (WFH) almost immediately and why not? The company has the technology to do so. This created a change in my living and working as I was already WFH, however, that included most of my clients coming to see me in my home office. Because my husband and I are no spring chickens and because he has a history of heart concerns, we decided that I needed to move towards online work, via Zoom or Facebook Portal or other means.

Initially, I kept busy

with my clients as my schedule always has been, just done exclusively by remote. Then I noticed the palpable fear of the medical professionals and so I added free sessions to anyone in the field. That has taken over a good number of my sessions. I trust that I will be able to get back to a more balanced schedule soon enough, in the meanwhile this is my way of paying it forward.

I like structure in my life. For me, this means I have continued with a routine. Awakening early every morning to walk the dogs and feed them, followed by my normal schedule of cleaning my home and exercise for my body. Next, I ablute and once dressed, head downstairs to my office. If I have sessions scheduled, I begin with those. Otherwise I am working on paperwork and all the background stuff that I do to keep in business.

Downtime

There is more downtime simply by the nature of this quarantine. That is where it has become particularly important that I use it well. By that, I mean find ways to nurture me. Today, I overheard the backyard neighbors’ little children shrieking with delight as they ran through the water sprinkler. I moved my laptop out to my back porch so I could enjoy the unfettered joy. With my husband home that has given me cherished “water cooler time”. That is time to take a break and just talk about nothing in particular. At the end of our workday, we walk through the park with our dogs. We are in almost total isolation, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

I have taken the time to learn new recipes, nothing earth shattering mind you. Still I discovered that enchilada sauce doesn’t have to come from a can. And egg drop soup is relatively easy to make. Claiming a shortage in the meat department, I have even included more plant-based meals into our diet. He is enjoying them!

Although I am unable to physically visit with my sons and their partners, we are fortunate to have the Facebook Portal. Therfore, we have held family happy hours and chat sessions. Most of that time is spent in gales of laughter, just like the old days around our dinner table. Speaking of dinner, we are having our food and supplies delivered. Without the distraction of shiny displays I am saving money! In support of local businesses, we get take-out a few meals a week.

I have had projects waiting for me to have free time. Some of them will still wait, I guess they weren’t a priority. Others, such as going through old photos and scaling back the quantity has given me the gift of recalling some wonderful memories. My plants are happy with the attention given to them now, just like some of my friendships. It is fun exchanging funny memes and thoughts and inspirations with friends and loved ones. It helps me to look for and read what feeds my soul. Selfishly, I am enjoying all the time I have with my husband.

What I am not doing

is overdosing on news. I watch enough to be aware, not so much as to ride the roller coaster that media would provide. Nor am I joining in negativity and trash talking; whether it is social media, texts or phone calls. If a dark moment seems to encroach on my mind or my soul, I do self-hypnosis or meditate. Using the other tools in my toolkit to reframe that moment as well. I am doing my best not to judge anyone else for how they are reacting to this quarantine, no one needs or wants my opinion anyway. Let me note, I refuse to feel guilty if I don’t behave perfectly, these are imperfect times.

Just as I started this, this is my story, it is not meant to “should” on you. I hope it may inspire you. If you have ways of coping that will inspire me, please share! I am always open to new ideas.

Woman receiving a relaxing shoulder massage with a calm smile.

Self-Care In Times Of Stress

Written by: Debbie

I often see people during a time that they consider to be the worst time of their life. Whether it is due to parenting challenges, loss of a loved one, career struggles, divorce, or any stressful situation, they turn to me for handling stress. Hypnosis is an amazing tool to use for coping with stress. So I love assisting these people. I have several protocols I use with clients. I used them myself during the stress I recently endured with the care and loss of family members. Just as important for me was self-care. The same applies to my clients.

When stress strikes, self-care often takes a backseat. The ability to care for oneself is related to the ability to go within on a consistent basis. It requires listening with open, compassionate ears. However, during those stressful periods, we tend to focus outward. We diminish or disregard our inner life, ignoring our needs and limits.

This can lead to even more stress. A lack of proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise will help to wear the body down. I will check in with my clients to be sure they are taking care in those areas. Once we have explored that, it is time to look at other ways we care for ourselves. This helps us live more fully. Listed below are some great ways to be sure you are taking care of you!

Deep breathes. Anyone who has ever met me or read anything I have written knows how valuable I feel deep breathes are. Even better, go outside and get deep breathes of fresh air!

Wiggle your toes. Yes, whether it is in the water, in sand, tall grass, or just naked tootsies on the couch, wiggling toes helps you release the stress you were storing up in those little piggies!

Listen to music. Whether it is slow and relaxing music or up-beat dance music, music heals the soul.

Create. Painting, crafting, or sculpting makes it easy to get lost in the creation of your project. It helps you tune into your inner genius.

Go for a walk. If you have a dog, that pup will love to join you on an adventure. If not, take along a camera and capture your surroundings.

Work on a puzzle. Crossword, jigsaw or word search. Get lost in the solving and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment when you have completed your puzzle.

Read a good book. It is so much fun to get caught up in the narrative of a great read. It is also mentally stimulating.

Dance. Dance like nobody is watching. There are so many benefits to dancing including improved mood and lower stress and anxiety. According to research carried out by The Arts in Psychotherapy, when the chemicals and hormones are unleashed, they help improve one’s mental state. Even one “lively” session of dance can reduce depression.

Scale back. No is an option, use it as a response when you feel your plate is full.

Ask for help. Our friends and loved ones are not mind readers. Give those who love you the opportunity to be there for you.

Be more social. There will be times you need alone time. There are also times that lunch with a friend, hitting a movie with your partner, or participating in a book club helps. It gets you outside of your thoughts.

Whatever works for you, just be sure that you take care of you. Remember that whatever you are experiencing isn’t likely to be permanent. On the other side will be a whole lot of newfound wisdom.

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