Wisdom Hypnosis

Leap Into Heart Health

2012-02-18T11:14:00.000-05:00

February is Heart Health Awareness Month!

Maybe you have been helping your heart while improving your weight through diet and exercise. Maybe you have taken time to relax or pamper yourself. Isn't it time to take the next step to better health? You wouldn't burn your home or fill it with toxic fumes, because your home is where you live. Well, you need your heart to live, so it's time to love your heart.

This group hypnosis event will begin with the wonderful wisdom and inspiration of Dr. Cesar Lara, MD. If you haven't had the opportunity to hear him speak, you are in for a treat. Next, sit back, relax and let your mind wander while Debbie Lane helps you make the change to nonsmoker.

Your investment in your health? Only $55.00

Debbie and Dr. Lara have agreed that they will donate a portion of the proceeds to the American Heart Association. because they love to dream of a future with healthy hearts for all!

What's your excuse?

2012-02-07T16:28:00.000-05:00

Hello Friend. It's been a while. I know how things go, life takes over and the best of intentions become excuses. It becomes easy to put off taking care of ourselves with the many demands made upon us. Maybe you find other expenses cause you to postpone giving yourself the boost you need so badly, your goals seem to be getting further and further out of reach.

Well, I understand. I've decided to do something about it. Let me help you reduce at least the financial excuse so that you can get Back On Track and on your way to success!

Just click on this link and get yourself Back On Track!

First Time In Hypnotherapy

2012-01-13T15:25:00.000-05:00

Last week I received a call from a local journalist who wanted to experience hypnosis. We arranged a time for her to come to my office and experience hypnosis. Today I was delighted to see her review of the whole experience posted at Tampabay.com.

Here is a link to her story: http://www.tampabay.com/features/fitness/first-time-in-hypnotherapy-getting-sleepy-and-loving-it/1210316

If you are considering hypnosis for change, but you aren't sure if it's for you this article might help you decide.

Why Smoke? By Gloria Constantas

2011-10-13T19:17:00.001-04:00

As a hypnotist I know many reasons NOT to smoke. I think we all know the devastating effects on a smoker's health, and even on the non-smoking spouse of a smoker. Among them are: lung cancer, heart disease, strokes, throat cancer, breast cancer, and so many other potentially fatal conditions.

So today I am wondering not about why Quit smoking, but why smoke?

Most people start in their teens. The statistics say 80%. Just try to imagine a 50 year old person sitting at their desk at work, thinking. Why don't I start smoking? How about a 30 year old who has just completed running in the park, Hmmmm, maybe I should have a cigarette. Or a 40 year-old at a convenience store having the impulse to buy a carton of cigarettes on sale. I just have trouble imagining how one would get the inspiration to light up after being a teen.

Teens start for social reasons. They want to be like their friends, they want to be liked, they think it makes them grown up as it is illegal for minors but not for adults. How bad could it be? They know many smokers, may even live with one. Sometimes they think they can do it temporarily, so they can hang out with their friends now and when they graduate college, it will be easy to stop. No teenager I ever spoke to admitted they were addicted.

But what is an addiction? There are choices all along the way. I don't know anyone who was forced to take up smoking. After 30 years, it doesn't seem like a choice, but during the first few years, you have to force yourself to continue, you have to persist or it won't become a habit.

But it's easy to quit smoking. Mark Twain said,

Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know because I have done it thousands of times!

He was trying to be humorous, BUT the fact is, people quit every day. Some use hypnosis. Some use other methods. The statistics say that 15 million people attempt to quit smoking every day, yet less than 3 percent of these people succeed. That means less than 5 million. So let me assert that 4 million people quit permanently every day!

Gloria D. Constantas M.A. has been a certified hypnotist for over 10 years. She earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling, Human Services, and Guidance in 1995, and then became certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists in 1996. She is also certified as an instructor of professional hypnotists since 2006. She has guided her clients to overcome many barriers to success, including phobias, anxiety, poor self-image, and low motivation, using hypnosis. She is the president of the Tampa Bay Chapter of NGH and on the adjunct faculty of the annual NGH convention.

Clever Combo of Dr Seuss and Eckhart Tolle

2011-09-02T20:44:00.000-04:00

Had to share this...

Does Chinese chocolate taste better than Swiss? Depends on when you find out

2011-07-27T21:48:00.001-04:00

This information was interesting to me because it helps demonstrate how we form opinions. Re-frame your expectations to re-frame your experiences.

When consumers taste a chocolate bar they think is made in Switzerland, they'll prefer it over one supposedly made in China, according to new study in the Journal of Consumer Research. But if you tell them where it's from after they taste the candy, they'll prefer the Chinese chocolate.

"Imagine being at a wine tasting and finding out that a wine is expensive after tasting it," write authors Keith Wilcox, Anne L. Roggeveen, and Dhruv Grewal (all Babson College). "Will learning the price afterwards affect your evaluation differently compared to if you had learned the price beforehand?"

The authors found that the answer seems to depend on whether the information is favorable or not. In the chocolate study, undergraduates were given unbranded squares of Trader Joe's chocolates to taste. Half of the participants were told the chocolate was made in Switzerland; the remaining students were told the chocolate was made in China. But some were told this information before eating the chocolate and some were told afterwards. "When they were given the country of origin before tasting, the students liked the chocolate more when they were told it was from Switzerland," the authors write. "This was expected because Switzerland has a strong reputation for chocolate whereas China does not. Surprisingly, when they were given the country of origin after sampling, the students that were told the chocolate was from Switzerland liked it less than those told it was from China."

The authors found similar results when they told the participants that the chocolate was expensive versus inexpensive. The students enjoyed the same chocolate less when they were told it was expensive after sampling.

Finally, the authors conducted a study in a Boston-area liquor store. Customers were told the store was conducting a blind taste test of a new wine. After tasting, half the customers were told the wine was from Italy; the remaining customers were told it was from India, a region not known for producing fine wines. "As in previous studies, people liked the wine more when they were told it was from India after sampling compared to when they were told it was from Italy," the authors write. And nearly twice as many people opted to take a $5 coupon for the wine (instead of a gift of similar value) when they were told it was from India.

This blog post has been adapted from a news release issued by the University of Chicago Press Journals

Expand Your Mind While You Shrink Your Size!

2011-07-07T17:05:00.000-04:00

Cesar A. Lara, MD; Center for Weight Management is now making hypnotherapy available in his Clearwater office. Debbie Lane C.Ht. will be taking appointments on Wednesdays beginning July 13, 2011. Dr. Lara feels that lifestyle change is the key to successful weight loss, and hypnosis is a tool that can affect behavior and lifestyle quickly and effectively. Dr. Lara’s vision is not only to help his patients achieve their desired healthy weight, but more importantly, to help each patient develop a healthier lifestyle that will keep the weight off. He believes that the addition of hypnosis will enhance the experiences of his patients.

Lane states, “Hypnosis is powerful, when you use hypnosis to help your weight loss efforts, you get amazing results. Through hypnosis you work directly with the part of your brain that controls your habits, so it becomes easier to instill new habits and breakold ones. Patients in medical weight loss programs or meal plans find that hypnosis is the skill set that helps their success.

The Clearwater office of Cesar A. Lara MD; Center for Weight Management is located at 1217 Ewing Ave., Clearwater, FL 33756. The offices can be reached by phone at 727-446-3021.

We're Growing!

2011-06-27T18:45:00.000-04:00

Wisdom Hypnosis has been around since 2002, when Debbie Lane got certified in hypnosis. Debbie Lane is well known in this part of FL, for her charitable work and working with weight maintenance clients. She is also nationally known as the hypnotist who quieted the hiccups of the hiccup-girl.

Hypnosis is a valuable tool that helps people to make positive changes and eliminate undesirable behaviors. Since Hypnosis is a natural state, there are no bad side effects. Debbie Lane asserts, "Hypnosis is good for you, smoking is not." Because so many people need the services of an experienced certified hypnotist, Wisdom Hypnosis is expanding. Now more people who wish to expand their horizons can overcome former limitations. Wisdom hypnosis has added another hypnotist to their staff and is now open on Saturday mornings to better serve the needs of the community. Debbie and her staff are available every day except Wednesday and Sunday. See www.wisdomhypnosis.com for more information.

Hypnosis For Weight Loss, on the Dr Oz show!

2011-06-21T15:16:00.001-04:00

See what's coming up next on The Dr. Oz Show.

I work with clients all the time with weight issues. I can see you in my office, work by phone or even by Skype. Imagine shedding extra fat from the comfort of your home, so easily, you can do it with your eyes closed?!

Thumbs Up!

2011-06-16T10:41:00.000-04:00

This is a great example of how it feels to conquer something that once seemed impossible. Even as adults we can relate to this young man.

Save The Boobies Fundraiser

2011-05-20T17:25:00.000-04:00

Hypnosis Is Safe, Smoking Is Not

2011-05-20T10:39:00.000-04:00

Hypnosis has made the headlines again. The people want to know if it is safe. Well, Palm Harbor hypnotherapist Debbie Lane is giving a hypnosis seminar on Wednesday, May 25th, at 7:00 p.m. It will be a two hour session that will explain all about hypnosis. After finally putting the myths to bed, Debbie will lead a group hypnosis that will help smokers quit.

The event will be hosted by the Tarpon Springs Elks, 1719. The Elks Lodge is located at 237 S Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs. The suggested donation is only $55.00 and 100% of the proceeds from the door will be donated to the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. Team Rose Buds will be present to help ensure all smokers are comfortable and ready to quit. Team Rose Buds will be walking for the 3 day, 60 miles.

Lane states, "I have a very high success rate with smokers quitting through my sessions. My clients often call me after they have tried every other method and are feeling like a failure." Lane continues, “Hypnosis is used widely by licensed medical professionals and also is emerging as a recognized distinct profession with a rigorous code of ethics. She promises that no one will replace smoking with quacking like a duck, although they may experience the best night's sleep they have had in a very long time. Lane will explain in depth what hypnosis is and what it is not.

Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Lane as seating is limited. She can be reached at 727-781-8483

Another client reviews

2011-05-18T08:57:00.000-04:00

This wonderful lady has visited with me twice. Her son gave her the gift of two visits for Christmas. She was skeptical and it took until May for her to decide to come in. Now she is returning for more sessions and wants friends and family to come in.

We will follow her progress and post again!

Go Lightening!

2011-04-27T11:07:00.002-04:00

Pretty Little Bre

2011-04-26T18:58:00.001-04:00

A year later and still sending me new clients!

Learning about hypnosis

2011-04-01T17:51:00.002-04:00

Radio Interview

2011-03-02T15:49:00.004-05:00

Ready to stop? Here is an interview I recently gave on how to make those cravings go away!

2011-01-23T19:56:00.001-05:00

Debbie Lane - Wisdom Hypnosis

2011-01-05T23:10:00.000-05:00

Debbie Lane - Wisdom Hypnosis

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Happy-Holidays-from-Wisdom-Hypnosis.html?soid=1102397697317&aid=dl784EvfErU

2010-12-23T13:17:00.000-05:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Happy-Holidays-from-Wisdom-Hypnosis.html?soid=1102397697317&aid=dl784EvfErU

Hypnosis Has A Heart

2010-11-04T09:32:00.002-04:00

Smokers can quit in time for the Great American Smoke Out. I will be conducting a group stop smoking session and The Tarpon Springs Elks 1719 will be hosting this event to raise money for the American Heart Association.

On Wednesday, November 17th, at 7:00 p.m. there will be a two hour group session.

The Elks Lodge is located at 237 S Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs.

The cost is only $49.00 and 100% of the proceeds from the door will be donated to the American Heart Association.

I chose the American Heart Association asmy husband was treated for heart disease and felt this was a way of giving back. He underwent a quadruple bypass on Sept 8, 2010.

Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Lane as seating is limited.

I kissed a pig....

2010-07-27T12:32:00.000-04:00

I kissed a pig and I think he liked it!

Cruise Control, How To Stay Vacation Healthy

2010-06-23T10:35:00.002-04:00

It's that time of year. We have worked out to get into shape and now we are off on vacation. So many of my clients love to cruise.

BUT THE FOOD! Oh the FOOD!

It is true, the food is fabulous on a cruise, still that doesn't have to mean you give up all you have been working for. Imagine going on a cruise, having the time of your life and dropping weight? It is possible! My clients have done so, I did too!

I am now releasing my new audio,

Cruise Control, How To Stay Vacation Healthy
Not A Pound to Lose , With A Hypnotic Cruise

Just listen to this audio and enjoy all the adventures your cruise has to offer you!

The CD is available for sale here: Cruise Control

Animal Magnetism?

2010-06-19T12:08:00.005-04:00

In hypnosis, we harken back to Friedrich Anton Mesmer,a German physician and astrologist, who invented what he called magnétisme animal (animal magnetism),a presumed intangible or mysterious force that is said to influence human beings. The term was used to explain the hypnotic procedure that he used in the treatment of patients. Mesmer believed that it was an occult force or invisible fluid emanating from his body and that, more generally, the force permeated the universe, deriving especially from the stars.

Hypnosis has come a long way since then. Still, there are those who enjoy exploring man's ability to mesmerize animals. Not a part of my practice, but still this is fun to watch!

Daytona Bound!

2010-05-24T20:22:00.003-04:00

From around the world, a diverse and highly innovative group of educators, scientists, trainers, coaches and practitioners will converge during Hypno-Expo 2010. With over 88 lectures, workshops and courses to choose from, this promises to be the hypnosis event of the year. I'm going to be a speaker/presenter and invite you to join me.

Full conference includes 42 speakers, 48 lectures, 3 full days of shopping in the exhibit area, Friday evening social, Friday evening piano performance, Saturday evening awards dinner and live entertainment, Saturday evening Fireworks display off the pier and continuing education credit.

The location is incredibly perfect for combining education and vacation. With each room overlooking the ocean, activities for the entire family abound! There's a boardwalk and beach to entertain folks of all ages.

I am most excited to be teaching a class titled, Return To Love: Couples Therapy. I also call it, Beyond The Real Love Potion Number 9. First there was The Real Love Potion Number 9, a 'how to' for finding your life mate. Now, I take couples to the next step, to an enduring and fulfilling love that lasts.

I am giving a presentation on hiccups! Everyone asks a million questions when they realize I am the hiccupnotist that silenced a famous case of hiccups. I will answer any questions you may have regarding hiccups, burps and well, you know what else! ;-) I am also going to give a workshop on promoting your practice for free or almost free!

In addition to my presentations, you'll be learning from other leading experts on business practices, internet and website marketing, coaching, inductions, techniques, script writing, medical hypnosis, legislative affairs, scientific research, clinical interviews and more (people who walk their talk, including several highly esteemed and prominent names in the profession)

Best of all, I may have new shoes for each and every event! I plan on bringing my camera to take my famous great shoe shots! So, please step up and say CHEESE if you see me at the convention!

If you'd like more info or to make a reservation go to:
http://www.hypnosisalliance.com/conference.php
If you haven't yet solidified your plans, I encourage you to do so today! With the event being held over Memorial Day weekend, the block of rooms reserved is already near 'sold out' capacity.

Hypnosis a Powerful Tool in Complementary Cancer Care

2010-05-19T08:23:00.002-04:00

Complementary therapies, while not given the attention that more traditional cancer therapies may receive, are perhaps equally important while undergoing treatment for certain types of cancer. Patients diagnosed with difficult to treat malignancies will often use these types of therapies in conjunction with traditional surgical, chemotherapeutic, or radiology techniques to form a more comprehensive and effective treatment regimen. Among the most important and effective alternative therapies utilized by those diagnosed with cancer is hypnotherapy.

Hypnotherapy has been used for many years in clinical settings. Hypnotherapy’s role in cancer management however, is relatively new and indications are that its utilization has not been fully maximized yet. Effective cancer treatment often depends on the patient’s ability to not only defeat the cancer through treatments but also to maintain their health and mental spirit throughout the painful side effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
Often, the symptoms and effects of the cancer itself on the body are negligible compared to the pain and other side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. This is where acupuncture has been said to be most effective. Cancers such as peritoneal mesothelioma, which are often unable to be removed by surgical means, are often treated with some combination of chemotherapy and radiation. While these potent therapies can be effective in eliminating some of the tumor mass and growth, they also profoundly affect the health of the surrounding tissue. Symptoms of these effects including fever, nausea, and general pain have been dramatically reduced through the utilization of hypnosis. Patients, who are able to withstand these symptoms and recover quickly, will often be able to be more aggressively treated, increasing the efficacy of the treatment regimen as a whole. Some specific hypnotherapy techniques utilized in pain management include altering the neurophysical configuration of pain, control of anticipatory anxiety, and targeted imagery.
Hypnotherapy techniques may not be appropriate for all patient’s pain and individual symptoms but it’s certainly worth exploring as it can do very little harm in experimenting with integrative therapies. The goal with alternative therapies, as with traditional mesothelioma treatments, is always to increase the effectiveness of treatment as a whole. If hypnotherapy can assist in any way in helping patients recover or manage symptoms of chemotherapy or radiation, then it will have contributed to the treatment regimens overall efficacy and should certainly be utilized.

References
Erickson MH: Hypnosis in painful terminal illness, in Haley J (ed): Advanced Techniques of Hypnosis and Therapy: Selected Papers of Milton Erickson, MD. New York, Crune & Stratton, 1967.
Sunnen, Gerard M.D. , Hypnotic Approaches in the Cancer Patient Ozonics International, LLC

Vegetative State Patients Can Communicate

2010-02-04T13:15:00.002-05:00

While this isn't a surprise to me whatever, it is exciting research! It leaves so much potential for future research and work.

I have stolen the entire article as it appeared in it's original source, so the link to it is provided above.

Groundbreaking research has found that patients left in a vegetative state for devastating brain damage are able to think and respond to questions.

British and Belgian researchers have been able to reach into the mind of a man who suffered a severe traumatic brain injury in a road accident in 2003 and communicate.

Their research involved a new brain scanning method called functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) imaging.

The man was asked to give yes and no answers to simple questions such as "is your father's name Thomas?" with the help of a hi-tech scanner that monitored his brain activity.

For yes answers, he was told to think of playing tennis, a motor activity. For no answers, he was told to think of going from room to room in his home, visualizing everything he would expect to see there.

"We were astonished when we saw the results of the patient's scan and that he was able to correctly answer the questions that were asked by simply changing his thoughts," said Adrian Owen, co-author of the study from the Medical Research Council.

"Not only did these scans tell us that the patient was not in a vegetative state but, more importantly, for the first time in five years it provided the patient with a way of communicating his thoughts to the outside world."

Researchers report say five patients thought to be in a persistent vegetative state showed brain activity indicating awareness, intent and, in at least one case, a wish to communicate.

Looking For Participants, Weight Away Tamp Bay

2010-01-09T12:10:00.003-05:00

Once again we are looking for participants in our exciting FREE program, Weight Away Tampa Bay. If you think you qualify and are interested in applying go to :

Weight Away Tampa Bay Applications

Stage Hypnosis

2010-01-08T22:09:00.003-05:00

I love a good stage show, I really do. In fact two of my buddies will be performing here in my area locally in the next few days.

Patrick McInnis:

http://www.comedyhypnosisexperience.com/safetyharborspajan72010.html

and Glenn Miller: http://www.improvtampa.com/calendar.aspx?d=1%2f13%2f2010+8%3a00%3a00+PM

so I just had to share this video. A client of mine this week told me about this, hoping not to offend me. Offend me? I haven't stopped laughing.... this is the best!

Free Hypnosis. part 2

2009-12-31T09:33:00.003-05:00

OK, so I need to do some self hypnosis to be sure I am more efficient when posting notices. New goal for 2010.

Anyway, the talk and free session I will be giving is on
Sunday, January 03, 2010 at 12 noon.
It will be held at Oak Trail Books, 1219 Florida Avenue, Old Downtown Palm Harbor.

Oak Trail Books Phone number is (727) 785-1960.

Also, this will be my first talk of the new year and the new decade. Can you believe it? A whole new decade.

Blessings to one and all for 2010. Happy New Year!

FREE HYPNOSIS!

2009-12-29T17:25:00.003-05:00

I will be giving away health and happiness - free of charge - in celebration of the 6th Annual World Hypnotism Day. World Hypnotism Day is the day when hypnotists from over 20 countries around the world strive to inform the public about the benefits of hypnosis. It is my plan to motivate and inspire anyone who attends away from stinking thinking and towards a successful mindset.

This event will include a group hypnosis exercise, during which I will hypnotize people to eliminate stress, stick to their resolutions and accomplish their goals. 2009 was an extremely stressful year for many and this is a chance to make 2010 much better! I want you to learn how to reprogram your mind, to create a healthy mind set and eliminate feelings of overwhelm and fear.

This event is a free gift from me and Oak Trail Books to anyone who would like to experience a deep trance.

Flushing Meadows

2009-10-18T12:08:00.007-04:00

I know this has nothing to do with hypnosis, but hey, it was just too funny to pass up. Besides, I am always saying to look for reasons to laugh, here I am offering you just that chance. Yesterday my husband and I stopped at a breakfast restaurant and after we ate, we wandered behind the hotel that is next door. We stumbled upon a real find! Tennis courts filled with toilets. We took a picture, I posted it on my facebook page and told the world my son had named it Flushing Meadows. Well, today some of our friends returned with us, to get their pictures taken.

I am posting my favorite shots and I ask you to please help me find a good caption!

You're Not The Boss Of Me!

2009-10-16T08:56:00.004-04:00

Today is National Boss' Day, according to my calendar. I joked with my friend yesterday that seeing as I work for myself, I should send myself flowers and a card. I love fresh flowers, so maybe I will! It did get me thinking though, how often I have joked in the past about working for the worst boss in the world. When others complain about being overloaded with work or not getting a raise they believe they deserve, I have joked about how my boss (me) way over schedules and underpays me.

If our words have power, it is time to re-think those statements. Perhaps, it is time for me to start saying aloud, I have enough time for all the activities my boss plans. My boss gives me plenty of time to refresh and enjoy the service I render. I also want to remember a Bible verse I heard my father quote many times while growing up: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." Colossians 3:23

I remember my father whistling as he worked around the house. He always spoke with pride about the company he worked for and the responsibilities they trusted him with. He was clear that he worked the hours he owed them in fair exchange for the pay they promised him.

When I stop and think of what I do and how much I love the changes I am allowed to observe as they occur, I feel truly blessed. My days are filled with authentic moments, isn't that how I want to live my life?

When I think about payment, I have to remember the Law Of Attraction. Is it really smart for me to state how cheap my boss is? I wonder if the Universal Intercom System is on and my words have been overheard? YIKES! All of my needs are met and I have many luxuries in my life as well, so I guess the Universal Bank Account has been plenty generous with me.

Friday Silliness On Monday

2009-09-28T16:18:00.001-04:00

This caught my attention and I just had to share. After all, imagine if you could heal thyself?

They Asked, So I Answered....

2009-09-22T11:17:00.002-04:00

Skirt.com states that they are all about women....their work, play, families, creativity, style, health and wealth, bodies and souls....skirt is an attitude! I guess I must have attitude, because they interviewed me for their monthly item called 24/7.

They asked questions such as if I were a superheroine, who would I be? Well, thanks to Ms. Eleni that was an easy answer! They wanted me to quote my mother's favorite quote. (Poor Mumsy, I did too!) Anyway, for those who want to know the truth and those who just want fodder for teasing me, here is the interview: Debbie Lane Skirt.

Quantum Physics or Bunny Hop?

2009-09-10T12:15:00.004-04:00

Definition of quantum in regards to physics:

The smallest amount of a physical quantity that can exist independently, especially a discrete quantity of electromagnetic radiation.

My son and I were laughing together over the use of the word quantum. We often hear people speak as if it were a huge quantity, yet in physics it is the smallest amount. So we pondered, is a quantum leap really a bunny hop?

Either way, the smallest of shifts can create huge change. Think of the difference 1 degree makes in water, from hot to boiling! I had a friend tell me how a simple 3 foot variance in the engineering of a highway changed whether it went through a skyscraper or a right of way that was already in existence. (Ironically the engineer argued with her knowing this would make a difference of millions of dollars and months of labor, not to mention the number of businesses that would have to relocate!)

What if you made one small change today? What if you decided that no matter what, you would not allow a complaint to pass your lips for 24 hours? What if you could only use words that up lifted the people in your life? Would that change how they react to you? Would it at least change how you feel about yourself?

My husband and I had a 24 hour challenge like this over the weekend. We both noticed how much more we enjoyed one another's company. We laughed more, traffic improved, store clerks were more efficient. It was crazy, crazy good that is!

Online Hypnosis?

2009-09-03T10:32:00.009-04:00

From time to time I get calls from people who want to work with me, yet they live a distance that is not conducive to having a face to face visit. When possible, I refer to a local hypnotherapist. However, in some cases, there is no one nearby, or the individual has made the choice that I am the only they want to work with. Other times, there are folks, who for a variety of reasons are shut-ins. In the modern era of internet communications, there is an easy solution. We can now work together as if we were in the same room, even when separated by thousands of miles!

I even kept in contact with my son while he was out of the country this way! As shown in this picture ~~~>

The question has been asked if online therapy is as good as face to face. An interesting review was written on CNNHealth here: Therapy Online: Good As Face To Face?
"A new study in The Lancet suggests that real-time chat therapy with a psychotherapist is successful in helping people with depression.

Of the 113 people who did online therapy, 38 percent recovered from depression after four months, compared with 24 percent of people in the control group. The benefits were maintained at eight months, with 42 percent of the online therapy group and 26 percent of the control group having recovered.

The level of benefit shown in the study is about the same as could be expected from traditional therapy, although the researchers did not compare the two as part of the experiment, said Dr. Gregory Simon, a psychiatrist and researcher at Group Health Cooperative in Seattle, Washington, who wrote the editorial that accompanied the study."

This study was limited to instant messaging! I prefer to use Skype whenever possible. That allows me to read the client and they can see my expressions as well. When a client uses a headset as well, they can block out any other interferences easily and relax into a wonderful state of trance.

Only problem is, they tend to want to trance every time they put on their headsets once they have experienced how peacefully and easily they make changes!

Just 3 Cigarettes?

2009-08-31T17:30:00.003-04:00

Yes, it is true, only 3 cigarettes a day puts you at risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. CBS News released information stemming from a new report that the reason smoking is so dangerous is because it increases blood pressure, constricts blood vessels and decreases HDL or good cholesterol. The study also found air pollution and secondhand smoke increase your risk of cardiovascular disease by 30-percent.

Smoking affects your looks, your wallet and your health. Are you ready to quit?

This Just In....

2009-08-31T10:28:00.002-04:00

A new study shows that smoking just three cigarettes a day can substantially increase your risk of death from heart disease. Breathing moderate to high levels of secondhand smoke and polluted air can also cause deadly heart disease.

The study will be released later today and I will share more information.

Debbie Lane's Wisdom Hypnosis

Ready To Quit?

You told me you want to quit smoking
You said money was tight
You said you don't like large groups
You missed the last group
You've called and written requesting another opportunity

I listened:

Tuesday
September 01, 2009
6:30 p.m.
3060 Alt. 19, N.,
Palm Harbor, FL 34683

ONLY: $65.00

For an intimate group of people who want to become smoke free. This includes the class, hypnosis, a recording and email support. (As well as a few other surprises!)

It is my intent that this group is not only smoke free, but feels more prosperous in these times as well.

Juxtaposition

2009-08-26T23:57:00.005-04:00

Walking through the streets of Buenos Aires, we came upon these two buildings. The first word that came to my mind was juxtaposition. The two buildings, side by side, so very different. One, older and full of character, houses families. The other, so modern and sleek, houses businesses. Neither one right or wrong, each serving a different purpose.

In hypnosis, we work to see life situations in a similar fashion. If we remove the emotions, they are simply events, neither good nor bad.

Today, in my office, I had a client who wanted to eliminate the fear that had been instilled in her that ,"everything is a sin". She has been ruled by guilt and therefore experiencing some very limiting physical ailments. When I pointed out the origin of the word sin ( an archery term meaning to miss the mark) her countenance changed. I asked her, "what if your experiences were simply life lessons? What if you removed the judgments of good or bad and simply made them a part of your personal tapestry? How would you be different?"

She imagined the events side by side, similar to those buildings, as neither right or wrong, but rather as simply a part of the story of who she is. Suddenly, she was able to package up her guilt and ship it to some place far off, some place where it could be handled by those who process guilt. For her, guilt, worry and sin were no longer necessary to hold on to.

Lessons Learned While In Argentina

2009-08-24T11:16:00.004-04:00

I was fascinated by this window. It let the light in, but because it was alabaster instead of glass, you could not see through it. It just seemed like an appropriate metaphor for life. How often do we see the light without seeing the full picture?

It takes a certain amount of faith to believe that even in some of our most trying times, things will work out. We determine how we want things to go and when they don't seem to go our way, we worry that nothing will ever be OK again. We tend to determine that everything is working against us. If we stopped to review our past, that is not usually the case.

The trials I have experienced in my life are what helped me become the person I am today. In the past, during those trials, I could not see that. I ranted and raved, to no avail. Thank heavens, I did not get my way at the time. It is now my sincere desire to recall those lessons when I am faced with an obstacle.

Recently, while sitting in quiet contemplation at St Michael's Shrine, I realized how often I have gone there to request a change. Prayer for me had become constant "I wants". Even if the wants were for others, it was still always a want. Gratitude seemed to be missing from my prayers. I began in that moment to focus on gratitude. When things get difficult, I recall my gratitude prayers and somehow, I become calm with the knowledge that once again I will be fine.

I may not see the answers or the outcomes, but I do see the light.

Friends Across The Pond...

2009-08-19T10:43:00.004-04:00

I received a lovely note from a directory group in the UK. Unfortunately, my lack of savvy when it comes to all things technical prevented me from a simple cut and paste of their article. I am way too preoccupied with the Prodigal Son's imminent return to retype the whole thing.

What I will share is that this group offers folks looking to find a hypnotherapist near them a list of qualified individuals whose credentials have been verified. They post their location, what areas the hypnotist deals with, their training and their fees. They also have many articles written by hypnotherapists regarding any number of issues.

The service is free! I work by Skype and phone with people around the world. However, there are just times when you want someone in the same room as you. That is very understandable. This is a great way to find such a person near you if you are in the UK.

Please stop by their site, it is lovely. To quote them, "Don't suffer in silence. Help is available and most importantly it's available in a simple, easy to find way."

www.Hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk

Facebook, Twitter, Blogging And Shedding Weight

2009-08-15T17:42:00.003-04:00

Weight Away Tampa Bay has been active for a couple of months now. Our participants are showing great results. Through Dr. Lara's weight loss clinics, hypnosis and social networking these ladies have had the tools and support they need to make big changes. Dropping weight and improving attitudes in a fabulous way.

Mark Schantz of The Suncoast News stopped by my office to check on how things were progressing. This is the fabulous report he gave:

Mind over body mass

The International Association of Counselors and Therapists named Debbie Lane International Hypnotist of the Year in 2007 for helping a 15-year-old St. Petersburg girl to stop hiccupping after 38 days.

Lane has taught people how to overcome eating disorders, stop smoking and understand anxieties and fears that sometimes control their lives.

(Continue reading...)

We have made use of Twitter, Facebook and the blog at Weightawaytampabay.com to keep these individuals motivated. Isn't current technology awesome in the opportunities it affords us?

I was out and about when I made a quick stop. As I parked, I looked ahead and there was a newspaper box in front of the parking space. I was smiling from that newspaper! That's right, they put me on the front page! How fun was that. More importantly though, are the individuals who have read the article and realize that there is a chance for them to get help as well.

I Love A Happy Ending!

2009-08-10T09:33:00.003-04:00

A few months back I had a client visit with me, who wanted to make a change in her life. A fairly big change, as the issue we met for was affecting many areas of her life. It had a very real impact on her love life as well. She had someone special in her life, yet this issue kept the relationship from going to the next level.

I know I am being ambiguous, that is in order to respect her privacy. For you see, she recently sent me an email that since our visit, she has been free of the issue. Her life has changed and she wanted me to see just how much! With her permission, I give you the end of her story, or maybe it is just the beginning.....

What A Great Week Ahead

2009-07-26T16:41:00.006-04:00

Women's Wellness Society Gulf Coast Kickoff Event

I will be speaking at the inaugural meeting of this group, what an honor. So, I had to make this talk something special. I hope the title says it all:
How To Live An Amazingly Juicy and Awesome Life, Even Now!

This event will be held at the Grillsmith New American Cuisine. (So, even if you don't want to hear me speak, the food there is great!) That is on Countryside Blvd, in Clearwater.

I hope any of my readers who are locals can make it, I will be ready to have great fun. The following day is my birthday and I leave for Argentina! I have many stories I want to share, really fun stuff that happens with hypnosis. I am sure there will be more when I return. It has been so busy I have been remiss in posting. So, I ask your indulgence just a bit longer, dear friends.

Until then, breath, think juicy thoughts and keep aware of your feet on the ground even if your head is in the clouds!

One Man's Opinion

2009-07-09T22:22:00.003-04:00

I had lunch with my youngest son today. We were chatting about his job, he works part time for a local grocer. (He is a student, so the job is for date money.) Anyway, I was asking him if he noticed trends in terms of who bought what. He commented on a variety of typical purchases that accompanied a variety of either personality traits, socioeconomic standings, etc.

Then he said, "I always know when someone is going to buy cigarettes." I asked him how he knew that. He said that cigarette smokers over 30 looked older than their age, they look tired and dull skinned. He says he recognizes the look now, when they want to buy cigarettes and wishes he could refuse to sell them as these people all look like they need to quit.

Interesting.....

Ready To Stop Smoking?

2009-07-03T14:08:00.003-04:00

For the past several days I have posted just a few of the many reasons people are choosing to stop smoking. My wonderful friend Ms. Eleni listed another, smoking is related to heart disease. Recently I have experienced a huge surge in requests for smoke cessation sessions. It is such a thrill to know people are making choices for better health.

In this economy, people are having challenges meeting their bills. So, even though it is cheaper to quit than to continue to pay for cigarettes, the initial outlay is sometimes more than they can come up with at once.

I have avoided holding large group sessions, I tend to enjoy being more intimate with my clients. I enjoy the getting to know each person and helping them on their journey of change and self discovery. Well, having taught classes of many sizes for many reasons in the past, it finally dawned on me. Groups of 10 people are very manageable, still intimate and successful for the client.

I am pleased therefore to announce that I will be holding Smoke Cessation Groups. Intimate groups of only 10 people in a wonderful, cozy atmosphere. An audio to take home, additional materials to help make the change and full email support from me! All for only $65.00.

The first group will be held Tuesday, July 14, 2009 @ 6:30 p.m. at my offices, 3060 Alt. 19, N., Palm Harbor, FL 34683

Contact me to reserve your spot. Do so quickly, I have already had reservations before I could even get this posted!

727-781-8483

email:
contact@wisdomhypnosis.com

WARNING!

2009-07-02T09:16:00.004-04:00

The Food and Drug Administration has said it will immediately require two smoking-cessation drugs, Chantix and Zyban, to carry the agency's strongest safecty warnings over side effects including depression, behavior changes, agitation, hostility and suicidal thoughts.

The new requirement, called a "Black Box" warning, is based on reports of experiencing unusual changes in behavior, becoming depressed, or having suicidal thoughts while taking the drugs. The antidepressant Wellbutrin, which has the same active ingredient as GlaxoSmithKline PLC's Zyban, already carries such a warning.

There have been 98 suicides and 188 attempted suicides reported with Chantix users and 14 suicides and 17 attempted suicides with Zyban and Wellbutrin (and generic equivalents).

Maybe it's time to quit the healthy, safe and natural way. Hypnosis does not involve chemicals and there are no boxed warning labels!

The List Continues....

2009-07-01T08:38:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I posted 3 More Reasons To Quit Smoking. Reason # 2 stated that today taxes on a pack of cigarettes increase by $1.00 (or approximately $30 per month to the pack a day smoker) here in Florida.

There are so many reasons to quit, so I thought I would add more to the list today.

4. Research studies show a higher risk of influenza infections among smokers when compared with nonsmokers. Further, the mortality rate of influenza among smokers is higher than that of nonsmokers. (Anyone concerned about the Swine Flu?)

5. Smoking increases the risk of impotence.

6. Stop it or you'll go blind! OK, so Mom wasn't talking about smoking, but there is a correlation between smoking and macular degeneration. Quitting smoking lessens the risk.

Ready to Quit?

3 More Reasons To Quit Smoking

2009-06-30T09:53:00.005-04:00

1. There is a study that will be published in the July issue of the Journal of Neurochemistry that suggests a direct link between smoking and brain damage. This research, led by Debapriya Ghosh and Dr Anirban Basu from the Indian National Brain Research Center (NBRC) found that a compound in tobacco provokes white blood cells in the central nervous system to attack healthy cells, leading to severe neurological damage. This research has found that a chemical known as NNK exists in all forms of tobacco and is therefore equally as dangerous in second hand smoke as well as for those who chew tobacco.

2. Here in Florida, the taxes on cigarettes are raised another $1.00 on July 1st.

3. Smokers sleep less soundly than non-smokers. They are also more likely to snore, disturbing their sleep and the sleep of their partner. (Want to improve you relationship?)

The I.R.S. recognizes only one form of smoke cessation, hypnosis! In fact, it offers a tax credit for smokers who want to make the change. That means 100% of the money spent on smoke cessation with a hypnotist is deducted from your income!

Walk On - ESPN Video

2009-06-19T09:32:00.001-04:00

Keeping with the theme of overcoming obstacles and in addition the fact that this weekend is Father's Day I wanted to share a video that I sent to my husband. As a golfer, he loved it and shared this with many of his buddies.

more about "Walk On - ESPN Video", posted with vodpod

It's All Small Stuff

2009-06-02T11:17:00.005-04:00

It is so easy to get caught up in the day to day stuff that comes up. Traffic slows to a halt, friends disappoint you, money is tight. Over the weekend, my son who is in Argentina could not access his money through the ATM machines. He is 13 hours by plane away, does not speak Spanish, is unfamiliar with the city as he just landed there on Tuesday and was 45 minutes from the campus of the University of Buenos Aires (by bus) where he is working for the summer. The night before he got off at the wrong bus stop and it took two hours of wandering to find his apartment.

I was on my way into a restaurant for dinner when I got his call. He called using Skype. (How I love Skype!) However, he has to call me, as he had not yet purchased a local cell phone. He was down to 12 pesos and it was now Friday night. There was a banking strike in Argentina. It is winter, so it was colder than he is accustomed to here in sunny Florida. The details continued to pile up (electric was down, so he lost communication, etc.) and of course, it was extremely easy for me to go into awfulize mode.

However, that would not change or improve anything. My son is bright, and truth be told, he is 21, a man! So, I reminded myself of his ability to problem solve and focused on what an adventure this is for one his age. I was reminded of a time when I traveled for a company as a young model and I would call my mother from the hotel with some panic. Later, the panic was done and I would go out for the evening. Not bothering to call her back, I couldn't understand her being so upset with me the next day when I got around to checking in.

I spent Sunday breathing deeply and enjoying the friendship of a long time friend. We walked the beach and then enjoyed a glass of wine together watching little ones splash in the water. By Monday morning, my son sent me an email, things were restored back to normal and he had great fun with his fellow comrades who live off campus with him there. He had made good use of American Express and so had his friends. He paid for their purchases, they paid him back in pesos. Simple enough.

I recently came across this video and I have shared it with clients. I think it is a great lesson in recognizing just how much we really are capable of overcoming and puts the little stuff into perspective.

I hope you enjoy this, get a tissue ready!

Weight Away Tampa Bay

2009-05-21T14:31:00.003-04:00

I have been remiss in keeping up with my blog and with Twitter and many other forms of social media recently. I apologize to my many friends whom I know through these venues. Perhaps you will forgive me when you see what it is I have been working on.

Several months ago, Cesar Lara, M.D. and I met to begin discussing a way that we could give back to the community. We are both feeling very fortunate in our respective practices and we have mutual clients. These conversations led to the birthing of our new project. We are giving the gift of health to a selected group of individuals in the community as part of a new program called Weight Away Tampa Bay.

While the economy, job losses and depression dominate the headlines in our community, we've decided to donate our time and expertise to bring positive, healthy changes to individuals as part of a scholarship-based weight loss program. (That's right, scholarship based, as in FREE!) This program's mission to not just change the person's physical appearance but also their outlook on life. We believe that we can help change our community by starting with just one individual. However, we are actually looking for 10 candidates!

Through a combination of a proven medical weight loss program and weight management hypnosis, the selected participants will have the tools needed to find solutions in their lives, including the self awareness and self esteem it takes to overcome obstacles.

Tampa Bay residents can apply for this once in a lifetime opportunity or nominate a loved one, simply by gong to www.weightawaytampabay.com and filling out the form on the application page. There is a catch, the deadline for application is Friday, June 5, 2009.

So time is of the essence.

Mesmerizing The Cats?

2009-04-22T07:46:00.002-04:00

While wandering through the Blogoshere a while back, I happened upon a blog named Henson's Hell. The humor caught my eye as I do love to laugh and believe so much in the healing power of laughter. Furthermore, the author Henson Ray tells of his misadventures in a sleepy little town called Plainfield N.J. The place of my birth! OK, I was hooked.

Henson creates adorable videos. Today, he has gifted me with a video. It involves his infamous cats and the use of hypnosis. You may recognize the voice that is not the cats!

The Gift Of Hypnosis

2009-04-14T09:58:00.005-04:00

While I believe that the ability to make changes in our lives so beautifully through hypnosis is amazing, I understand that it is not, in fact, a magic wand. If only it was, I would create world peace in the swish of my wand. There would be no hunger, grief or illness anywhere. Then again, it is probably best I am not in control of the world, because not everyone really wants a shoe shrine built or a wardrobe of mostly pinks and purples.

In the past few weeks, I have been blessed by a flurry of interest in hypnosis related to smoke cessation from the local media. It seems that with the rise in prices and taxes threatening to bring the costs up even higher, the quit lines around the country are seeing huge increases in the number of inquiries. So am I and I imagine every hypnotist in the country! Hypnosis is recognized by the I.R.S. as a tax credit, so even better for smokers who want to make a change.

The calls that make me sad, however, are the desperate calls from loved ones who want their smoker to quit. They want to purchase a gift certificate from me, to encourage their smoker to quit. That is a lovely intention. I understand, as my husband smoked for many years, while I helped others quit.

But, the bottom line is, the smoker has to want to quit, they have to be ready. So, I will not sell the gift certificate. I can't in good conscience. When the smoker is ready, I tell the caller, have him/her call me and we can make arrangements. Perhaps I am making a mistake, but to me, it just doesn't seem right to do otherwise.

Adrift On The Breeze...the answers

2009-04-01T08:59:00.003-04:00

Here are the answers to what those bubbles below mean. IF you are here and have not read the quiz below, please stop! Scroll down and take the quick quiz. Then return here, it will be a whole lot more fun, I promise.

The shimmering bubbles you blow in your imagination are symbols of your hopes and dreams. The scene you described reveals how you think about the dreams you hope someday will come true.

1. The bubbles you blow float away high into the sky.
You see your own dreams as elusive and unattainable, flying away from you like soap bubbles on the wind. Maybe you're wishing for too much, too soon or are caught up in an impossible fantasy. Whatever the case may be, the gap between your dreams and reality is wide. As much as you may like to tell others of your grand schemes and plans for the future, somewhere inside of yourself is a voice telling you just how fragile and fleeting those dreams are.

2. You are blowing hundreds of tiny bubbles through your plastic ring.
You've set your sights on the immediate attainable - new clothes, a car, a boyfriend or girlfriend. Your dreams are sensible and always within your reach. Decide what it is you want most in the world and work for it. If you chase after everything at once, you stand a good chance of ending up empty-handed.

3. You're concentrating on blowing a single enormous bubble.
You have a single, all important dream or ambition that drives your entire life. Hold on to that desire and keep striving toward your goal. Given time, you'll see that it's not so far from your grasp.

4. The bubbles you make are blown behind you on the breeze.
Your disappointing experience with unfulfilled hopes and dreams in the past shapes how you think today. But the experience of chasing after and losing a few dreams along the way was all just training for you as you make new goals for the future. Don't be afraid to keep dreaming - the only people who never fail are those who never try.

Adrift On The Breeze

2009-03-30T17:30:00.004-04:00

It is Spring Break for my youngest son, so I am taking some time to enjoy his company. We are planning a trip to the local airport to investigate his taking flying lessons. We plan a trip to one of the amusement parks (his choice) and are taking an art class together. He is also spending time with his beloved monkeys at the Primate Sanctuary where he volunteers and with his human friends.

I share this only to make excuses for not posting something terribly original today. None the less, I think this is fun. It is another quiz from the great game book, Kokology- The Game Of Self Discovery.

This game is named, Adrift On The Breeze.

Can you still remember those long summer days when school was out, you had no responsibilities, and there was nothing but time from when you woke up till the sun finally went down? Time for play and adventure, time to daydream and roam. Hours to spend on childhood diversions.....flying kites...watching clouds...blowing bubbles...

Imagine you are out again on a childhood summer's day, blowing bubbles in and open field. Which of the following best describes the scene you imagined?

1. The bubbles you blow float away high into the sky.
2. You are blowing hundreds of tiny bubbles through your plastic ring.
3. You're concentrating on blowing a single enormous bubble.
4. The bubbles you make are carried behind you on the breeze.

Pick one, comment and I will posts the meaning behind the bubbles in the next post.

STOP!

2009-03-25T12:50:00.007-04:00

Stop is a powerful word. It has been repeatedly said that the subconscious mind does not hear the negatives. If I tell a child "don't run!", chances are they will continue to do so. (How often have you observed that in a school, where the kids run past the teachers in the hallway as the teachers yell after them?) If instead, I say "Stop! Use your walking feet" it has been my experience the children will comply.

Why? They follow the commands directly. STOP! Grabs their attention and they do so, making it easier to then begin walking.

So it is with our thoughts as well. It has become a habit to get caught up in the negative (stinking thinking). We are fed so much negative input, we believe it. We play old tapes in our heads over and over as proof that the worst surely will occur. We ruminate when stressed, about past experiences that we perceive as failures.

It is a basic rule of the mind that you can only process one thought at a time, meaning we cannot hold opposing ideas at the same time. Therefore, once a thought is accepted by the subconscious mind it remains until it is replaced by another. The longer the idea remains, the more difficult it is to replace.

I have found the word stop to be an amazing tool when I am caught up in this game. If in the car or someplace alone when I am noticing my thoughts taking that familiar old path to Angstville, I will yell STOP! loudly. There are times when perhaps yelling aloud is not appropriate (for instance the library or the waiting room of the doctor) so then, it is a loud yell only in my head. I remind myself that I used to feel this way, but now I choose to feel differently.

Since the mind can only process one thought at a time, I actively choose to direct my thought towards the positive. How awesome to have the choice!

The Abundance of Scarcity Thinking!

2009-03-23T12:00:00.009-04:00

While walking this morning, I noticed birds above flying in a way that just appeared to be so free. Perhaps they were scouting for food, but by all appearances, they were just enjoying the winds and floating in circles. That made me smile. I had an amazing weekend, which followed the most wonderful experience on Friday. You see, on Friday, I was invited to shadow Dr. Cesar Lara.
Dr. Lara is a local family practitioner who specializes in weight management. We have begun working together and he felt I could better understand what it is he does, by observing him in action. Every hypnotist ought to have the same opportunity! Meeting with his patients, hearing their concerns and observing the gentle yet clear manner he communicates with them was inspiring. Furthermore, I always enjoy learning more about the science of medicine. Dr. Lara respectfully asked for my input. In just a few short moments, I could observe big changes occurring in the thoughts behind behaviors of these individuals.

Something I did notice is how the current "scarcity" mentality is affecting people's weight. People are stressed, which in turn affects their sleep. Not enough sleep has been identified as a factor in weight gain. Furthermore, midnight snacking often occurs when sleep is interrupted.

Another reaction to stress is the release of cortisol by the adrenal glands. One of the functions of cortisol is to trigger a production of blood sugar from proteins. Excess glucose is then used for fat production. This increases fat storage in the body.

An additional outcome of scarcity thinking is that we tend to hoard. Why, there was even a report today on my local news station (10Connects) that there has been a reduction of trash recently due to the economy! Hoarding occurs on our bodies as well. We hold on to extra weight at a subconscious level because we fear not having enough food later. We over eat because we fear lack.

Nature is amazing in it's abundance. When I look at my orange tree, it never produces just "the one" orange. It produces so many oranges that we have to give them to everyone we can. My son has recently laughingly reminded me that nature is abundant with the generous amounts of pollen we have had to sweep from our drive daily. Sunsets are never ending. The number of seagulls every time I visit the beach, more than enough, thank you very much!

I realized that sometimes I do the same thing. I eat beyond the point of satisfaction, because at some level I believe I may never get to enjoy the wonderful dish before me again. Yet, in reality, there is always another dish set before me of equal enjoyment the very next meal. It is time for me to be very aware of mindful practice in eating. I will eat just a little less, trusting that I will always have another perfect meal.

Artifical Intelligence Is Amazing

2009-03-14T17:33:00.002-04:00

I am always interested and amazed at the development of new ideas and technology that we have in our midst. This was just sent to me by email and I had to share with everyone. It is amazing.

As a teacher and when my children were young, I loved blocks. I took a course on blocks in college! These blocks, blow me away!

TRUST

2009-03-11T12:47:00.004-04:00

So many people are living in fear currently.

FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real.

It is time we refocus ourselves, paying attention to trust. I have created an acronym for trust that I think will help.

TRUST = Totally Releasing Unnecessary Scary Thoughts.

In this moment, are you safe? If so, then that is where you focus, because all any of us have is this moment. Recall or imagine a safe place. Notice the colors, the textures, the designs of this place. Notice the temperature, the aromas and the sweet sounds of serenity and calm. Allow this place to become real. Notice how in this place, in this moment, you are safe and secure and serene.

Notice how the body feels when this is your truth. Allow your mind to wander to a concern and wonder how it might be if that concern were behind you. How would you feel if you were free of that worry, if you had a solution to that puzzle?

I wonder if the waiting for the other shoe to drop is more what creates discomfort within you than the reality of the situation. All too often, after a "crisis" is over we realize that fear was in our heads, not our circumstances.

Allow your mind to drift past the event you have been concerned about and notice the outcome. What steps might you have taken to get to the desired outcome? What are the keys to your success?

Perhaps it starts with T.R.U.S.T.

Monday Morning Musings.....

2009-03-02T16:10:00.002-05:00

I have mentioned my friend Janet before. I have shared her book with you. Here is a chance to here her tell you more:

I just love when we work together and people utilize trance state from hypnosis and her method of writing. The AHA!s that occur bring tears and laughter every time.

Monday Morning Musings....

2009-02-16T14:35:00.004-05:00

It was an exceptionally busy weekend with Valentines, a birthday party and a hockey game to attend. Somehow we managed to squeeze that in along with chores and errands. I even managed to go out with two fabulous women for dinner one evening. What became evident to me however, is the importance of balance.

I love my work, I feel amazingly blessed to be able to work in the area of hypnosis. At times I become all hypnosis, all the time. Then my family begins to protest. They keep me aware that "all work and no play makes Debbie a dull girl". Have you ever had a friend who only talked about their kids or their pets or their illnesses? A steady diet of anything gets boring.

Give yourself the gift of a few moments today to stop and breathe, smile and relax. Think of a way that you can bring balance back into your life. Do you work nonstop, gripe continually or just feel overwhelmed? What might be different about you if you were feeling more balanced?

What can you do today, to create just a little more balance in your day? If stress is the problem, go here for a free stress reducing download.

Friday Silliness...

2009-02-13T08:32:00.004-05:00

The comedy hypnosis show I had planned on attending tonight has been rescheduled for Saturday February 28. (I will be sure and send reminders out to all my friends closer to the date.) In the meantime, I wanted to remind folks that I have a class I offer called The Real Love Potion Number 9. It is currently available for folks to offer in the comfort of their homes.

In honor of that, here is the theme song!

Also, a fellow blogger and dear friend of mine is celebrating his birthday today. Happy birthday maxie, my favorite naughty pup!

Have a fabulous, romantic, fun filled weekend everyone!

A Night At The Symphony

2009-02-10T11:53:00.009-05:00

The following short quiz is fun and the results are interesting. It is taken from a great little book, Kokology, The Game Of Self Discovery by Tadakiko Nagao and Isamu Saito.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There's something magical about a night at the symphony----
a sense of expectation and pure pleasure. Imagine being able to take a place on that stage among the other musicians, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform at your very best.

If you could join the orchestra, what instrument do you see yourself playing?

1. Violin

2. String bass
3. Trumpet
4. Flute

I will post the meanings of the answers later today. For now, just note what instrument you would play and we shall see how close to your personality we come!

OK, here's the match up to you and your choice of instruments:

1. String bass

There's a feeling of power gotten from taking position behind an enormous bass and making it call out in a tremendous moan. In love, your skill rests in the ability to bend your partners to your will, taking complete control, and driving them onward to pleasures they never imagined they could experience. You never ask permission, but that dominating character is what makes you so irresistible.

2. Trumpet

There's no getting around it -- your mouth is the strongest weapon in your arsenal. Whether it's whispering love talk in your partner's ear or exploring them with your lips, you have all the characteristics of the oral personality.

3. Flute

the flute demands incredible patience from those who want to master it. You show the same patience in the way you wear down partners with your persistence, determination and stamina. Your lover are often taken off guard when what they thought would be a brief recital quickly develops into a full concerto in six movements.

and the one many of you have been waiting for....

drum roll.....

4. The Violin

The violin demands sensitive finger work and a delicate touch with the bow to draw forth music from the taut strings. You see yourself as having the same awareness and skill in locating and playing upon your partners' most sensitive points. There's a sens of adventure in the way your hands can create such beautiful music by running over the same familiar notes.

Love Stinks

2009-02-06T17:19:00.003-05:00

Valentine's day, the most romantic day of the year. Yeah, right;

Love stinks!

"You love her
But she loves him
And he loves somebody else
You just can't win

One thing for sure
Love stinks!"

Maybe you remember the J. Geils Band?

If you believe love stinks, love hurts, there aren't any good ones out there anymore, anyway;perhaps it isn't what's out there that is the problem. Maybe, just maybe, you have stinking thinking. If that is so, then STOP IT right now. You can look around to blame all you want, but that isn't going to help you find someone to cozy up with. (Unless you really do want to spend all your nights with a puppy or a kitty!)

Your barrier to true love is in your mind—your subconscious mind. Change your mind, and you can—and will—attract your true love.

The truth is, our brains are hard wired to go to the negative. We tend to regress to the familiar, we want to prove our beliefs over and over. So, if past experience has told us that we are doomed to fail in relationships or we only attract losers, we will continually look for the proof. Everything can be "perfect", but one small miss step and the mind latches on to that and says' "Ah Ha! See, you are headed down the path of doom again!" Then the downward spiral begins.

An effective way of changing your thoughts is to make eye contact with yourself. Sounds silly? It works. Daily, look into your eyes, not just at your face in the mirror. Give yourself that positive feedback you would love to hear from a loved one. Smile. Your subconscious hears you when you do this.

Next, as you are falling asleep at night, you go through Theta brainwaves. So, focus on the emotions you want to feel. Picture yourself in love. Not with a specific target, but just imagine how love would look if it were a part of your life. Feel those wonderful feelings of pleasure and happiness. Imagine the places you would go, the things you would do.

Finally, use humor to ward off negative thoughts, rewire those synapses. Instead of thinking what a jerk your last lover was, imagine him/her as a cartoon like character. See the humor in what they are. Imagine yourself riding into the sunset with Prince Charming or Princess Dreamy.

Things Can Only Get Better!

2009-01-20T09:04:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Blue Monday. It may have been the most depressing day in history according to Dr. Cliff Arnall, a psychologist in Britain. Arnall has mathematically pinpointed Jan. 19 as the most depressing day of the year, based on factors including the weather, holiday bills and abandoned resolutions. But this year, he factored in job security fears and economic collapse. "(This was) potentially the most depressing Blue Monday we have had," Arnall said.

Today, we can officially say we survived and what's more we are experiencing some pretty exciting history. With the inauguration of Barack Obama, America's first black president, many are hopeful for the change that will accompany this. Just the mere energy of hope is profound, it is like electricity running through the airwaves.

On a personal level, focus on change. Forget resolutions, instead, think about one small change you have made or can make starting today. For instance, instead of worrying about losing 50 pounds, what if you slowed down your eating? That's right, place your utensil down between bites and be aware of chewing your food. Instead of paying off all of your debt, what if you made one small change in your daily spending habits and placed that money in a separate account, or even a piggy bank! One small step at a time.

Just for today, smile at a stranger. Commit a random act of kindness. Think a good thought about a co-worker. Take a moment today to breath deeply. Close your eyes and imagine your world a safe and happy place. See yourself smiling and hear your own laughter. Then at the end of the day, notice if you don't feel just a teeny bit better.

For My Local Friends

2009-01-14T11:58:00.004-05:00

Another chance to network. A great opportunity to meet my friend and author, Janet Conner. I am giving away a free session as one of the door prizes. So make plans to join us!

Register on-line and receive

$5 off your admission.

Making Dreams a Reality

in 2009!

Join us on Thursday, January 15th

from 6:30 to 8:30 pm

for a Girls Night Out

We will kick off the night at Aquastone Well Spa

then end the evening at Maison Rouge

300 Beach Drive N. (entrance on 3rd Ave. N.)

St. Petersburg

Guest Speaker: Janet Conner

Author, Writing Down Your Soul

Free Wine & Appetizers

Great Goody Bag!

Awesome Prizes including $100 Gift Card to Coco Brazil!

$20 Admission in advance, $25 at the door. Attendance is limited to a maximum of 50.

Make your reservation today!

Friday Silliness...

2009-01-09T11:05:00.004-05:00

Wednesday evening I decided to go to a local comedy club for some hypnosis. I had heard that a traveling hypnotist was going to be there, to put on a show. How could I resist? I sent this gentleman a note on one of the online boards for hypnosis mentioning that he was going to be in my neck of the woods and I would love to see him. When I didn't hear back, I figured he was busy with the show and probably didn't even see the comment. Besides, I am sure I am not the only hypnotist to watch his shows.

So, I set off for the event with my dear, long time friend and webmaster Dona. Did I mention that she is a very dear friend and very loyal, too? (This becomes important soon.) Thinking I am flying under the radar, we arrive at the club (Coconuts) and the owners know me. They know me not as a hypnotist, but rather from my teaching days, so they were pleased to have their daughter's former teacher visiting. I settled in, incognito as the former teacher, happy as a clam.

When the show began, there was the usual call for volunteers. This particular crowd was going to be a tough sell. So, with the encouragement of my very dear (and loyal) friend, I went up on stage to volunteer. After all, I love hypnosis and I know it is safe, fun and natural. When Patty McGee began his induction, I went down like a brick. Oh yea, I love this feeling and my shoulders were feeling better already.

The fun began. Patty McGee had me convinced I was on a trip into outer space. I was so excited. I love flying of any sort, planes, jets, hot air balloons, so why not a rocket? There I was floating, weightless, in space. Oh my, that felt good.

He did ask me to eat jello that was floating around. Poor guy didn't know that I HATE jello. You see, I had ponies growing up. My father told me that jello was made from the hooves. Well, if you have ever cleaned a horse or pony hoof before shoeing, you know that jello could never be appealing again. Not to mention, in later years I realized the hoof wasn't just the shavings. But, I digress.

The time progressed (I'm really not sure how long) and I had a blast. Upon my return to planet earth I showed everyone how Martians dance. Apparently it was quite impressive and this is where I know that if film of this ever shows up anywhere, my dear and loyal friend Dona will make sure it is eliminated and not posted on my site.

A few more tricks and it was time to emerge. Everyone seemed to enjoy the show. After the show, when I was leaving, Patty told me he knew who I was. He was very gracious about my attending his show. I believe he will do very well on the circuit and he will represent hypnosis proudly.

There are those in the hypnosis profession who practice in an office that don't approve of stage hypnosis. They feel that it gives our chosen vocation a black eye. I disagree. When done properly it is a great tool for educating the public while having a rollicking good time. Patty McGee is very professional. He has a baby face that you want to trust and he is true to his word. He did not ask me to do anything that I would be ashamed of. (Although I am not so sure I am proud of the dance, simply because I was once asked to leave dance classes as a child and haven't improved much since!)

Did I mention that Dona is a very dear and loyal friend?

Things Are Looking Up!

2009-01-08T11:33:00.008-05:00

Last Saturday I was scheduled to give a 2 hour talk on making your mind recession proof. This was a free talk I was giving in honor of World Hypnotism Day. It was held at Oak Trail Books, a lovely book store that hosts this event annually for me.

Press releases were sent out in advance and the result was amazing. I am still receiving calls from folks who saw articles written about the event in newspapers and periodicals I was unaware of. Our local CBS affiliate had me on in the morning show, at 5:45 a.m. and 6:45a.m.! (That was a testimony to my dedication to hypnosis, trust me. I drove an hour to be there, getting me out of bed at 3:20 a.m. I believe my son was just going to bed as I was waking up.) The interviews were fun, I was given the opportunity to put two different producers into trance, live on the air.

The phone at the store rang off the hook. There were so many people calling to say they would attend, we decided to break the hour into two one hour segments. That way, more could attend comfortably, we figured. The building was filled to capacity. The second event, we moved outside to a lovely garden area the store has, it was full. I ended up giving a third talk on Sunday, so those who could not fit into the first two were able to attend.

At the end of each talk, I did a short hypnotic journey. Reminding people of times they felt happy, safe and content. I asked that they make the memory as real as possible, recalling familiar smells, sounds and images. We intensified the memory as if we were creating a movie in our minds. When the moment of contentment arrived, we placed our index finger and thumb together to make a physical anchor for that moment. Breathing it in and feeling our contentment, we felt our fingers. We repeated this process 3 times. Now, the simple memory of that moment, touching the fingers together and a deep breath will help us handle any situation life may hand us with calm grace.

For me, the pleasure was seeing so many people walk away with some new idea that they could use in their own life to better their thoughts. I tried to fit as much into each hour as I could. Perhaps my favorite suggestion for one and all is to look up. That's right, look up. You see, when we look up as we discuss a concern, the emotion drains and we can get into fact finding and solution creating. Think about it this way, when we pray, we look up to the heavens. When we feel optimistic we say, "things are looking up". Where does a person who is depressed look?

So my friends, look up! Speak your concerns while looking up, then breathe deep and close your eyes. Allow your eyes to relax and begin to imagine a future moment where the concern is behind you. You are now looking ahead, fear is behind you. Breathe into that moment, that solution and realize that fear only exists in your thoughts.

World Hypnotism Day

2009-01-03T09:24:00.003-05:00

Time for the fifth annual celebration of World Hypnotism Day. Tomorrow, January 4th is the official day, however, my event is being held today. As I have traditionally done in the past, I am holding my event at Oak Trail Books. We will be addressing how to Recession Proof Your Mind.

This event is a great chance for the world to see how safe, natural and life improving the practice of regular self-hypnosis is. It is amazing how our bodies are built to help us, if we just pay attention. Deep breathing, helps us to relax, think clearly and even lower our blood pressure. Exercise releases endorphins, those feel good chemicals. Visualization sets the mind on the road to success.

I must keep this short, as I am off to Oak Trail Books. Here are some links to interviews I did on television (local CBS affiliate, 10Connects) This was fun, I was asked to put two different producers under on the air! The St. Petersburg Times reporter wrote a lovely article as well.

If you are local, please stop by, this promises to be a fun event. if not, check out http://www.worldhypnotismday.com/ for an event near you.

Ringing In The New Year

2008-12-30T18:17:00.002-05:00

I have not posted much recently. In answer to Ms. Eleni, yes I am still alive. I simply have been taking my own advice and spending time with my family and fun. I love hypnosis, live hypnosis, breathe deeply hypnosis, however, I must take a break to play, if I am to be any good at what I do.

I have been fortunate, I was invited to see Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang performed on stage at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. I watched my beloved Lightening Hockey team win while sitting in a private suite. I am attending the Outback Bowl on New Year's Day. So, all in all, some pretty fun stuff.

My wish for all my friends near and far is a glorious New Year's Eve, filled with love and laughter. Start 2009 with a healthy mind set. Look forward to all the possiblities that life has to offer.

I will keep this short and sweet for now. Just take a moment and breathe in all that helps you feel good. Reflect on what progress you have made in the past year, what you did right and who in your life brings you joy. Then, take those feelings forward with you, imagine a time in 2009 where you enjoy the fellowship of these same people and begin to create possible events in your life where you can spend that precious time with them.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Six Tips To Avoid Stress Eating

2008-12-18T15:21:00.005-05:00

Last night at Dr. Lara's office we had a great time. The group was large, yet felt intimate. People openly shared what their downfalls are as they embark upon the journey of healthier living. Over and over the obstacle of stress came up, it was a hot button for sure.

Dr. Lara explained that stress helps in the creation of a hormone called cortisol, which lowers the body's levels of serotonin (a "feel good" hormone). Lower levels of serotonin triggers a craving for carbohydrates. We discussed ways to cope with stress, diet changes (lean proteins over simple carbohydrates) and practical tips on avoiding eating when stressed.

Here are six tips I can offer you:

Take action! Exercise releases chemicals into the brain that will counteract the effects of stress. 10 - 15 minutes of exercise will distract the mind and allow you to change your focus. I keep hand weights in my kitchen. If tempted to snack, I do 10 minutes of repetitions in order to earn that snack. Nine times out of ten, I don't want the snack anymore and I begin to collect my thoughts.
Eat consciously. Place the utensil down between bites and chew. Savor the flavor and textures of your food. When you pay attention the taste and smell of your food, meals are more satisfying and temptation is reduced.
Chew sugarless gum. If you grab a piece of sugarless gum, you are less likely to put other foods into your mouth.
Schedule your eating. By keeping a set schedule of meals and snacks, you create a new routine. This will keep hunger at bay and train your mind to remain on target. Forget skipping meals, that only leads to disaster as the night wears on.
Create a journal of your emotions. Feeling stressed, feeling blue? Write it out. Studies have shown that writing about your feelings helps lead to resolutions and solutions to those same issues.
Practice relaxation techniques. taking a long hot bath or trading a massage with a loved one feels a whole lot better than any junk food tastes!

We experienced some relaxation techniques last night. I worked with the group to focus on each muscle group and send it comfort and relaxation. They gave themselves permission to enjoy the moment, feeling safe and serene. Next they were asked to think of a special person, perhaps a child, or another whom they would treat with total respect and love. They were told to feel that emotion for the other, than transfer that to themselves. Knowing they deserve the same love and respect. Reminding them that they love their body, for that is where they live; they would start treating that body with the same love and respect they would treat a loved one with. Finally, we took a journey to a special event, seeing all the foods available. It was easy and natural to choose healthy foods, because of the respect they were now experiencing.

At the end of the night, the room was quiet and filled with a gentle sense of calm and caring. Caring for each other, caring for ourselves. It was a blessing to experience that moment.

Life Tests You

2008-12-17T10:50:00.006-05:00

Last night I went to St Petersburg College right before exams were scheduled to begin. It was an opportunity to help out test stressed students. Prior to this, the students were sent an email with study hints and asked to visit my website video that explains what hypnosis is and is not. After a very brief explanation of hypnosis, I was able to take the students into a relaxed state of trance and review with them how they had all the information stored in their fabulous subconscious minds.

We reviewed the previous semester, revisiting the time line of classes and the information that they had learned. Next, they were given a physical anchor (simply pressing the thumb and index finger together and taking a deep breath) at each part of the time line they visited. They were told that repeating this during the test would enable them to recall the information as needed. The students were reminded that this was an opportunity to show off their knowledge and so they took those butterflies in their stomach and used them as feelings of excited anticipation.

Finally, we moved into the future, picturing and imagining the test paper results. They felt the pride and joy at having achieved such great grades. They realized that this was the beginning of many opportunities life would present them. They returned feeling strong, empowered and ready to succeed.

I have already received feedback from a professor who is thrilled with the results. Better grades than she had expected from her class. Is life great, or what?!

Tonight I am working with a local weight management doctor. He is a fabulous man, very dedicated to the success of his patients. The holidays present special challenges for people who are shedding those excess pounds. So, we are going to discuss holiday stresses and events. I will guide the group through a buffet filled with food, creating a desire to enjoy small quantities of healthy foods, a simple taste of one special treat and the amazing awareness of being in control!

If you are local, I would love to meet you there. So, for more information, please check out Dr. Cesar Lara's website at: Dr. Cesar A. Lara M.D.

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-12-15T08:29:00.004-05:00

Saturday evening the annual Golf Cart Parade was held in my neighborhood. It is a fun tradition, that has turned into something quite positive. Those who choose to participate decorate their golf carts for the holidays. We ride through our little community, singing and laughing and making happy noises to attract the attention of the families inside. When the children come out to see us, we throw beads and candy. The kids love this, their parents love this and most assuredly we love this fun.

The participants also bring canned goods, to share with the local food pantry. Funny thing, when telling this to a new participant she seemed a bit concerned. In fact, her face looked pale and grim at first. Somehow, she thought we were going to throw canned goods as we rode and collect candy! I couldn't control my laughter as I saw her face and imagined the stunned look of neighbors as they ducked from the flying missiles, much as President Bush avoided the flying shoes.

It is my hope to see the neighbors bring out canned goods we can collect as we ride through next year. This tradition is a great way to teach children holiday cheer and the fun of sharing. It reminds me that the holidays are not just about "stuff".

Last night was the first of many book signings for my dear friend and author, Janet Conner. It was a lovely event, held in a cottage home in the grand "old" area of St. Petersburg. There was a jazz pianist playing softly in the background, food and drink and of course plenty of books. So many of her friends showed up in support, such wonderful people. The room was filled with love and joy, I just had to stop and close my eyes and breathe it all in. Interestingly, an amazing assortment of aromas became clear to me as I did. A fire in the fireplace, yummy foods, scented candles, even the colognes of the attendees. I was able to anchor the love, the joy and the contentment I felt in that moment with the sound of the music and friendly chatter, the scents I was enjoying and the feel of the book in my hands. Divine!

Janet Conner has written a wonderful book titled, Writing Down Your Soul, How to Activate and Listen to the Extraordinary Voice Within. In this book, Janet walks readers through the four steps that awakens access to divine guidance through writing by hand. Janet is a columnist for UPI's religoun and spirituality.com. She is also the creator of Spiritual Geography, the deep soul writing system that heals the broken heart. More information about her book is available at www.WritingDownYourSoul.com

Yesterday On Channel 10

2008-12-10T11:04:00.003-05:00

Once again I visited with the anchors at 10Connects.com. I have been unable to load the interview here, so I will share the link here. These moments pass so quickly, we can never cover all we hope to. Still, it is great fun to be inside the studio and see how things work. Plus, they are a great team over there.

Thank 10Connects for all your support!

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-12-08T12:02:00.007-05:00

Last night I began the fun of decorating for the holidays. We brought boxes out of storage with the linens and decorations. My Christmas plates and special mugs were washed and are ready for use. Christmas soaps and candles were placed in the bathrooms. My Santa collection is spread through out the house. My creche is on the fireplace, awaiting the arrival of Baby Jesus. I baked some cookies while we decorated, I love the smell of baking cookies. (My husband and son loved the cookies, I think we have one left!) The tree was given lights, but no ornaments, yet. I will work on that through out the week. I have several commitments and so it will have to be a process in work, much like myself.

My husband put the lights on the tree. He will be decorating the outside as well. We have an annual golf cart parade, the carts are decorated and we throw candy to the neighborhood children as we go through our little community. My husband will prepare a pathway for the carts to park at our home as well. After all, it gets cold on those carts, so hot cocoa or a hot toddy are in order when we stop by here.

My son is helping with the tree trimming. Now that he drives, he is sent on those emergency runs for extra lights, hooks or whatever else is needed. He is first assistant to the light master as well.

I am invited to a party tonight. The hostess has asked that we each bring a dish to share.

There is a reason I am sharing so many trivial details and I promise it isn't just to fill white space. I want to give examples of how I avoid stress. I delegate. We share in the fun and the tasks. We all will benefit from the events, so I don't have to be a martyr and complete everything on my own.

What is more, it is fun to do this as a team. We are enjoying the process. I am not determined that things have to look a certain way. Everyone has a vote in how the decorations go up and where. I have relinquished control. Interestingly, it may not be my vision, but when all is done, it is a vision and a joy.

Take a moment, close your eyes and breath deep. Relax and listen to the quiet. Perhaps you can recall a favorite Christmas tune. Breath in and recall a favorite Christmas aroma. (I wonder if it is the pine tree or a candle or maybe cookies baking?) Imagine having your holidays in peace, joy and filled with laughter. Visualize you and your loved ones enjoying the events leading up to the holidays as a team. Now go out there and do it!

Joy to the world!

StoopBoyd

2008-12-06T10:08:00.003-05:00

I know I missed Friday Silliness yesterday. So, I thought I would show you a little of what has been keeping me so busy. I am having to work extra to afford massive amounts of hot dogs these days for a new visitor to my home. This egret has decided to call my home his. When we walk out onto the porch, he is there waiting and walks right up to us expecting his hot dogs. When I come home from any trips away, he flies right down behind my car as it pulls into the garage and stands at my door as I get out.

We have named him StoopBoyd after a cartoon (Hey Arnold!) character who would not leave his stoop. Recently he has been inviting friends, in particular a gray heron who, as of now, remains unnamed. Yesterday, StoopBoyd entered the house looking for more hotdogs. I had my son escort him back outside, as I cleaned up his thank you gift. (Yes, I was careful not to touch anything with my bare hands, thanks for asking Stan!)

So here he is, the most recent addition to our family, StoopBoyd!

The Fantasy Of Perfection

2008-12-03T09:34:00.003-05:00

The holidays have a way of bringing out the perfectionist in all of us. The magazines are filled with pictures of perfectly decorated homes and yards. Many of them with hand crafted ornaments that only take 3 weeks and way too much money to reproduce. The "Perfect Family" that lives up the road always has everything done and in place the day after Thanksgiving. The stores are filled with aisles of adorable decorations and great big sale signs. The drive to fulfill the fantasy of the perfect holiday takes over and the stress level goes up another notch.

It is important to make a decision regarding your activities during the holidays, are you doing these things because you love them or because you think you should? If guilt is the reason, let it go! If it is because you haven't let go of the perfection drive, perhaps you might enjoy this little story.

I love to create gingerbread castles. I have done this since I was in the 7th grade. For me, it is a fun, creative process that I enjoy. It is a three day process, including the dough, the patterns (I make my own) , the gluing (with melted sugar) and finally the decorating. Of course, eating them usually doesn't take my family as long. However, it is nice to have a gingerbread castle on the Christmas table.

Several years ago, I went through the process of creating my finest castle ever. The dough was delicious, the windows were made of rock candy (dyed with food coloring) and the powdered sugar snow on the roof was just delicate enough to look real. I was thrilled as I fell into bed around midnight, exhausted and proud. The following morning I awoke to hear my husband saying, "Oh no! Little Bit!" in a panicky voice. I stumbled out of the bedroom and into the living room. Rubbing my eyes, I heard my husband repeat, "Oh no Little Bit!" and look furtively back and forth between me and the cat. His eyes were huge and his head kept wobbling back and forth as if he was watching a tennis match.

As I looked in the direction of the cat, I started to laugh. I laughed til my sides ached because of what I saw. There, smack dab in the middle of my finest creation ever, sat one very happy kitty! Little Bit was convinced that she had the best mommy ever to have created such a delicious playground, as she licked her paws, she was covered in crumbs and icing. Fortunately for me, I enjoy the process of creating the castles. I knew from experience that they get eaten anyway, it is only a matter of time. So, it was just funny.

My table did not have a gingerbread castle that year. It hasn't in many years as I got into another baking streak for a while. I baked over 100 rum cakes (each December) for gifts and that began to take up my time. I am not baking those cakes this year (at least not 100 of them) so perhaps I'll take another shot at gingerbread. After all, I still have a dog and a cat who think mom is amazing when she drops goodies in the kitchen!

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-12-01T11:40:00.004-05:00

With the Thanksgiving holidays behind us, are you one of those people who suddenly feels the crush of the upcoming season? Gift giving season is upon us, along with parties, social events, wrapping up the year before a new one begins, children's pageants and the list goes on and on. All of this is meant to bring us joy and yet it seems as though we are on constant overwhelm. This year add the concerns that we have been feeling about the economy and the holidays can seem to be turning into nothing but a dizzying array of obligation!

There is hope. Here is how I deal with the season. I breathe. That's right, deep breathes, allowing my thoughts to clear and my body to relax. Breath is life, we always have our breath with us and yet all too often we get into overwhelm and we forget to breath. When you are stressed, your breathing is quick and shallow. When I recognize that in myself, I stop and take a deep, wonderful attitude changing breath.

The next thing I have had to learn is to forget the fantasy of perfection. If my uncle is a goof ball with outrageous behavior and opinions that he is compelled to spew every other day of the year, why should I expect him to be any different during a holiday event? I have lowered my expectations of how things "should" be. (I am not fond of "shoulding" on myself anyway.) If it is truly a family or friend get together that is important to me, than I focus on the relationships and enjoy the people I am with.

It is my experience that my friends and family would rather get together with a happy sane me, than the one that is weepy and weary because I created the perfect table decorations or had that one extra appetizer that no one knew I was going to serve in the first place. So far, neither Martha Stewart nor Norman Rockwell have featured my celebrations, but my friends and family have all enjoyed themselves as we usually end up laughing about everything and nothing.

With the economy what it is this year, it is a good time to remind ourselves about the reason for this season. Whatever your holiday or your Spiritual beliefs are, keep your focus there. When we take time out to renew ourselves Spiritually, we feel more ready to handle whatver comes our way. I like to remind myself that in this moment, I am safe, I am healthy and all my needs have been met.

Don't try to buy happiness. Often, when setting a budget and sticking to it, everyone is happier. After all, how much fun is "the gift" in January when the bills start to roll in? Perhaps, the gift of time is what loved ones would prefer. Be honest with friends and family, set limits on the amount spent on a gift, limits that fit your budget.

I enjoy a moment of quiet relaxation, of self hypnosis. When I find my words becoming terse or negative, I stop and think about how I want to feel. I think about who I want to be. Try it. Take a moment now and relax. Breathe deeply and with your eyes closed recall a favorite holiday. Recall the events, the sights, the sounds, the aromas. Most importantly, recall how wonderful you felt. Recall those memories of joy and love. Fill yourself with those feelings of joy and love right now, then take those feelings forward with you through out the rest of your day.

Friday Silliness....

2008-11-28T09:28:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was the American holiday, Thanksgiving. I hope all who celebrated had a fabulous day with plenty to be grateful for.

We can all be grateful we weren't at this Turkey Drop.

Have a great and relaxing weekend. Take a moment to reflect on what you are grateful for and imagine how you desire your life to be. Then, begin to allow that life to become your reality.

How To Survive Holiday Eating

2008-11-26T11:44:00.004-05:00

With the holidays and all the added pressure and responsibilities, as well as the added social obligations descending upon us, do you find it almost impossible to remain aware of your weight, eating and exercise routines? Do all those extra goodies seem to call your name? The good news is, according to a government study, on average, Americans actually only gain about one pound of fat over the holidays.

If you prefer to avoid even that one pound gain, then here are a few quick ideas to help make your holidays healthier and happier.

Remain Aware

Stop believing the fantasy of how “someday” you will have it together enough to really make a difference. That someday is now! It starts in little increments and builds. You want to create a healthy mindset for daily living.

In order to practice awareness relating to your intake of food, remember, no goody tastes as good as being healthy and fit feels!
Allow for the occasional treat, so you don’t feel deprived. You will find that you enjoy the food and the holidays if you don’t focus on deprivation.
Take a moment each morning to look yourself in the eyes (in the mirror) and remind yourself that you deserve to look and feel great.
Before a holiday party or meal, be sure to drink a full glass of cold water. This will help to fill you up sooner and elevate your metabolism so that you burn what you eat more efficiently. Dehydration slows your metabolism by 3 percent. That can be up to 80 calories a day burned just by drinking water.
Chew sugarless gum! While fixing a meal or when you want to snack, grab a piece of sugarless gum and you won't be as tempted to put other foods into your mouth.
Eat from the veggie platter when you first start, fill up on the healthy foods.
At social gatherings, don’t fill the silence with another mouthful of food. If you don’t know what to say, remain quiet for a moment and just listen. People love a good listener!

Keep It Moving

It is imperative that you keep moving through out the holidays. This will help with both the foods you consume and the stressful situations. Building muscle helps to burn fat, even when resting. If you exercise regularly, you will have more energy, feel better emotionally and sleep better as well as fight off diseases better. Any increase in physical activity has a positive affect on your health and your perfect body size.

Park further out in the lot at the shopping malls. Walk briskly to your destination, whistle or hum an upbeat tune to keep you moving!
Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Remember that cleaning and decorating both include plenty of twisting, lifting and movement, do it with enthusiasm to get the maximum benefits!
While you may believe that you don’t have enough time for exercise, it is true that only eight minutes a day of exercise will make an impact on your weight and your stress reduction.
Keep a set of hand weights by your sink. Every time you wash your hands, do a quick set of 10 reps with the weights. You'll be amazed how much extra exercise you sneak into your day.
Taking a walk while trying to resolve an issue is a great way to burn calories, reduce fat from your body and release clutter from your mind! As you get the oxygen pumping through your blood, your head will clear and often answers seem to appear!
Studies have shown that those who stand through out the day burn more calories as do those who fidget. Just by fidgeting you can burn up to 700 calories a day! Stand while conducting phone conversations.

Take some time for yourself in quiet contemplation. Close your eyes and imagine yourself having the perfect time with loved ones. See yourself laughing, hear the happy sounds of gatherings and feel the warmth and joy you allow. The holidays are about so much more than the foods we consume. So put your focus on your family, your friends and your spiritual beliefs and enjoy this season with zest!

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-11-25T13:05:00.003-05:00

Want to know why I am musing on Tuesday instead of Monday? Possibly because I was so amused yesterday with my new toy. I bought a webcam, finally. I feel like a dinosaur compared to so many of my blogger buddies.

I am preparing to offer online groups to help my readers handle stress better. So, I decided I needed the camera. It is wayyyyy too much fun. I keep it on (offline) and catch my family doing the silliest of things at my desk. I am just too lucky when it comes to reasons to be grateful after watching my guys on film!

Anyway, after they sign releases, maybe I will load them up. In the meantime, here is a quick shot I took yesterday while being interviewed on Skype by Andrew Wilkie. We chatted about hypnosis marketing and just generally had a great time.

Why You Should Quit

2008-11-23T09:08:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to say a quick thank you to my friend Cecilia Sherrard for sharing the news about why you should quit smoking from a very practical view point. Her blog is a real estate blog, Cleveland Ohio Real Estate, or Youshouldown.com. Her take on smoking? The cost and negative effect on your home, when looking to resell. When you want to sell your home, doesn't it help to have every advantage?

It is a wonderful article and Cecilia generously shares with her readers about how they can get help through hypnosis phone sessions with me. Thank you!

Please, take the time to read through her blog, there are fabulous tips on caring for your home. Her cleaning tips are a great resource for me. Please stop by and read her article,

Negatives Of Smoking In The Home & Why You Should Quit. Leave a comment, say hello and let her know I sent you!

Friday Silliness....

2008-11-21T11:16:00.001-05:00

Just one more reason to quit!

The Cost Of Smoking & The Great American Smoke Out

2008-11-20T10:21:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I had a blast at Palm Harbor University High School. The kids there are great and the teachers so willing to lend me their imaginations. We had teachers singing, dancing, looking for their missing feet and all sorts of fun. I was able to get the message across about the power of your mind and using it to create your future starting now. I also addressed the Great American Smoke Out.

So here is a little information I would like to share with you my readers. I have taken a post I wrote previously and edited it slightly, just a reminder, you can change your life starting today!

It isn't necessary for me to go into all the research that has been done connecting cigarettes and various forms of cancer, emphasema and heart disease. Not to mention what fun in the chemistry lab one could have analyzing all the chemicals in cigarettes. Let me list just a few: ammonia, carbon monoxide, nicotine, nitric oxide, hydrogen cyanide, mercury, tar and toxic trace metals (nickel, lead, cadmium, chromium, arsenic and selenium). Of course men (in their 30s and 40s) should be particularly interested in the fact that smoking increases risk of impotency by 50%!

Enough of old news, however. There is another reason to quit. Cigarettes are expensive. Not just the per pack cost at the store, but the per pack cost overall. Increased health risks will result in increased visits to the doctor and medications. Insurance companies are aware of this and therefore have an increase in the premium costs of medical coverage (not to mention homeowners insurance). Life insurance surges as well with smokers.

The extra dental bills, cleaning and whitening your teeth is more frequent with smoke dulling and coating your mouth. The extra breath mints a smoker buys to keep "kissing" sweet adds up.

Dry cleaning bills are higher with smokers because of the lingering smell left by cigarettes. Homes that smell of smoke don't sell as easily, so if you want top dollar on your home, you have additional painting and cleaning costs before placing it on the market.

Hypnosis helps with smoke cessation, according to a study presented at CHEST 2007, the 73rd annual international scientific assembly of the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), hospitalized patients who smoke may be more likely to quit smoking through the use of hypnotherapy than patients using other smoking cessation methods. Results showed that hypnotherapy resulted in higher quit rates compared with NRT alone,” said Faysal Hasan, MD, FCCP, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. “Hypnotherapy appears to be quite effective and a good modality to incorporate into a smoking cessation program after hospital discharge.”

The I.R.S. recognizes the value of stopping smoking. Tax laws passed for 2003 onwards means you can get a tax credit for money paid for hypnosis smoke cessation programs. The nicotine gum is not accepted by the I.R.S. Neither is the patch! Hypnosis is. This is a tax credit - not a tax deduction, so that means 100% credit on your taxes of the total amount spent for the entire program! You Can Get 100% tax credit for your Stop Smoking program when using Hypnotherapy.

I.R.S. information is here:
http://www.hsainsider.com/pdf/treasurypublications/TreasuryPub_23.pdf

Here's to breathing clean, fresh air in your lungs everyday, the rest of your life!

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-11-17T08:39:00.005-05:00

It was a fabulous weekend. The temperature dropped and it is nice and crisp out when I walk. I love that! This week promises to be fun and exciting for me.

On Wednesday, I am giving presentations to the Palm Harbor University High School, for the Great American Teach In . They have informed me that I will be in the main auditorium, presenting all but one period. I expect to see every student in the school! As the very next day is the Great American Smoke Out, I have to work that message into my talk.

(AS a side note: I am offering discounted sessions this week for smoke cessation. Time to quit!)

On Thursday, I am speaking for a group called Working Women Of Tampa Bay. It is a girls night out/networking event. I will address how to survive and enjoy the holidays.

On Friday morning I am speaking to a group of students at East Lake High School about hypnosis. The young lady who called and invited me said, "the kids are excited to meet a real hypnotist". Wait until they find out I am just an ordinary person, a mom like they have at home, even. Hopefully, I will bring them laughter with learning.

Friday Silliness...

2008-11-14T12:05:00.000-05:00

As much as I love my current profession, I may have to take a temporary leave of absence to start up a new business. Watch this and you will see why.

Now really, there are franchises available. I could hire college hunks and put them to work for me? Then again, my sons would be mortified, I guess I will stay with working with clutterers through hypnosis.

Clutterers Anonymous Affirmations

2008-11-12T10:19:00.004-05:00

Last night I spoke at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center. It was a lovely setting and the turn out was great. I was pleased to see some familiar faces, there to support me. (Thank you Ms. E!) One of the issues I discussed was how clutter in the studio can cause clutter in the mind. This becomes a barrier to creative productivity. I told the group that I knew none of the artists there had an issue with clutter, that resulted in giggles. Huh?

In my preparations for this event I came across a hand out I had from a seminar I had attended. It is the affirmations given out by Clutterers Anonymous. There are some gems within the list. So, checking online, I found them at the Clutterers Anonymous website. I am shamelessly posting them here, but do stop by and visit the site. The 20 questions is a great tool as well.

Affirmations repeated as you look into the mirror are always powerful. Also, using these in a hypnotic trance, make them your reality. So, read and embrace the ones that speak to you, on your journey towards freedom!

I nurture my spirit by surrounding myself with beauty and harmony.

I believe I am entitled to surroundings of serenity and order and joyous life.

I set reasonable goals, remembering that my first priority is my well-being.

I schedule what I can do at a comfortable pace. I rest before I get tired.

I allot more time than I need for a task or trip, allowing a comfortable margin for the unexpected.

I decide which are the most important things to do first.

I do one thing at a time.

I schedule quiet time for communing with my Higher Power. Before I accept any new commitments, I first ask guidance from my Higher Power.

I eliminate an activity from my schedule before adding one that demands equivalent time and energy.

When I feel overwhelmed, I stop and reconnect with my Higher Power.

I allocate space and time for anything new that I bring into my life or home.

I simplify my life, believing that when I need a fact or item, it will be available to me.

I affirm abundance and prosperity, thus I release the need to hoard.

I ask for help if I have any difficulties in working the program.

I schedule time for play and rest, refusing to work non-stop.

I believe that I can recover from cluttering and use my experience to benefit others.

I accept my progress as proceeding in God's time. I know that patience, tolerance, and taking my time aids me in my recovery.

I am gentle with my efforts, knowing that my new way of living requires much practice.

I do not yield to pressure or attempt to pressure others.

I realize that I am already where I will always be, in the here and now. I live each moment with serenity, joy, and gratitude.

Veterans Day

2008-11-11T08:09:00.005-05:00

Just a simple thank you to those who have served our country

I am offering a 50% discount to Veterans and Military during the month of November for phone and office hypnosis sessions as my way of saying thank you.

A reminder to locals I am speaking tonight at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center. Scroll down the page for details!

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-11-10T10:13:00.003-05:00

What glorious weather we had here this weekend. The kind that inspires movement and for me, cleaning. Apparently, it inspired many I know to do the same. It seems as though it was a weekend for eliminating clutter. Clutter that surrounds us, can also take up space in our heads and on our bodies.

There are many people who become overwhelmed with clutter, leading to hoarding. They have a fear of letting things go. You never know when you might "need" that item. So the piles begin and grow out of control. When clutter takes over the home, these same folks often isolate themselves.

Some common characteristics of cluttered people are:

* Highly creative, with a superior intelligence.

* Compulsive spending/shopping.

* Fear and inability to discard items.

* Time management issues. Procrastination is very common.

* Money management problems.

* Tendency to be heavy recyclers.

* Having a chronic illness/disability or being a caretaker for someone with a chronic illness.

* OCD and ADD may also be present.

People with clutter and hoarding issues have frequent feelings and thoughts of depression. Perfectionism is often present, although they are unaware of it. "How can I be a perfectionist they ask me, if I am living like this? I explain that their high desire for perfectionism can result in them being overwhelmed by not having the time to do it "right". They then experience an emotional paralysis. This leads to negative self-talk, embarrassment, a low self-esteem, and other debilitating emotions.

I work with these individuals through hypnosis to change their behaviors and habits, one baby step at a time. Make small changes rather than trying to fix the mess all at once. We also work on improving self esteem and allowing them to see themselves as safe in the world. It is time to throw away old judgemental beliefs about themselves and move into freedom.

For some, I find they need physical assistance as well. I refer them to a great company Professional Organizing Services. They are nonjudgmental and they get in and help do the heavy lifting!

Interestingly, as the clutter around them disappears, often, so does the clutter on the body. They also find they are more organized in thought as well.

For me, it is time to drop off bags of unwanted items at the Goodwill truck, parked in the Walmart parking lot. They make it so easy to donate!

Dreaming

2008-11-09T20:11:00.006-05:00

This Tuesday I am giving a presentation for the Dunedin Fine Arts Center. I am addressing the inner artist that dwells within all of us. At some level, we all have the urge to express ourselves and when we get beyond the fear of other's opinions, we allow ourselves to truly create!

Through hypnosis techniques, we can call upon that genius to inspire us and even improve our skills.

If you live in the area, stop in and join us. It promises to be a fun event.

7 Ways To Offer Love

2008-11-04T14:11:00.006-05:00

Once again, I am honored to have the contributions from P. W. Dowdy. My connection with this fabulous writer can only be described as a miracle. We live miles and miles apart. We have only been connected through the magic of the internet and yet, I feel as though she is my friend, maybe even my sister. She sent this article to me for sharing and I feel blessed to be able to do so.

7 Ways To Offer Love

Due to Hollywood propaganda, offering effective love today can lie in obscurity for some. Flowers and other wooing are great flatterers, but can our non- emotional actions express love more effectively?

In Sonnet 116, Shakespeare noted that "love alters not with its alterations find, nor bend with the remover to remove...it is ever fixed...never shaken."

In that actions commonly proceed from attitude, Shakespeare's attitude about live is a great place to start. If you wish to show love to someone - whether they understand it immediately or not -- here are 7 Do's and Don'ts:

As Shakespeare encouraged, commit to love the person in spite of their fragilities or shortcomings. You have faults as well, which your loved one is also discovering as your relationship matures.
Don't expect "peak experiences" from your connectedness all of the time. Writer Abraham Maslow coined the phrase to mean exactly what it says. Everyday of our lives we do not reach the mountaintop. Nor should we demand such peak experiences from those we love.
Listening is not the core of communication in a relationship unless it is a listening with interest. It is more than simply hearing what a loved-one is saying (while waiting your turn to speak). Listening is opening your heart as well as your ears to what someone else is saying. It is caring about a side of the issue that you may not have before considered.
On the other hand, opening up and letting the other person see your vulnerability is a good part of communication as well. "This is how I felt when you did that. I hope we can agree to work this out because I don't want to be at odds with you over this. Help me to understand how I (unintentionally) offended you.
Sacrificing your time when it is inconvenient to do so to help a loved one who has no one else to turn is an action of true love. Such an attitude is the basis of all good friendships. With time, any interpersonal connection void of friendship will melt down to two selfish people taking from each other, but scarcely seeing the need to give.
Can you say these three words when appropriate? "I Am Sorry."
"Here, let me hold you until you let go of that stress" is another loving attitude to express and do. It is the height of giving oneself when a loved one is overwhelmed.

Love is both inborn and learned. It takes the key of compassion to activate either expression. These seven means will build that compassion in you.

Debbie speaking again, How can I help but love what Pat wrote? She has no blog or website (yet) or I would link to it. She is writing a novel. I was given a sneak peek at it and I am so excited to read the whole thing when she is complete. In the meantime, I am grateful for her contributions here.

Monday Morning Musings....

2008-11-03T10:50:00.004-05:00

Last Friday, Halloween, I had the great honor of appearing on a local television station. We discussed Halloween Superstitions. My interview with Marty Matthews is at 10connects.
I wanted to post it here, but ran into snags. So, just click on 10connects and you can see it. Post your questions for me there as well. I will be checking to see what questions are asked and do my best to answer them!

Friday night was a fabulous night, lots of adorable kiddies came by in costume. Now, it is November and I am ready to move forward into a new month, with great opportunities. Lots planned, a class at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center, a great networking event I am speaking at Casa Tina's (also in Dunedin) and my annual day long marathon at Palm Harbor University High School for the Great American Teach - In.

For now, I am getting my week planned and started. I had a great walk today and feel the positive energy in the air! The best way to predict the future is to invent it. Here's to great new inventions!

Happy Birthday Mumsy!

2008-11-02T09:46:00.000-05:00

Just so you know, you ain't bad for an old broad!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-30T23:44:00.006-04:00

This has always been a favorite of mine. My brother had this record (I believe it was an old 45!) and would play it for me. One time, Mumsy was away for the day and he convinced me to let him wrap me up in mummy wrap. (He was always making costumes.) I was around five at the time. Well, once I was wrapped up, he locked me outside the house,playing this music.

I was let back in, just before Mumsy got back home, she was never the wiser.

This song just seems right after writing about Superstitions.

Happy Halloween, have a Spook-tacular day! Don't forget to get pictures of your costume and send them over to my buddy BadEvan. You could win $500!

Jack-O-Lantern

2008-10-30T08:32:00.004-04:00

A delightful Halloween tradition is the carving of pumpkins. How my kids always enjoyed the gooey insides as we scraped them out onto newspapers. Of course, somehow there was always enough goo to spread well beyond the papers, no matter how many I spread out. We would draw a face and carve it. Place a candle inside and our creation took on a life!

There were years I bought several pumpkins, attempting to do my "Martha Stewart" impression. Unfortunately in my house, I usually ended up looking more like Jimmy Stewart. Oh well. The kids and I had fun.

Carving Jack-O-Lanterns is a Halloween custom that dates back to ancient Ireland. The first Jack-O-Lanterns, though were actually made of turnips, beets or even potatoes, not pumpkins. Pumpkins began to be used later, when Irishmen immigrated to the United States.

There are several version of an Irish legend that tells of a man named Stingy Jack, who convinced the Devil to pay for one last drink before he took his soul. The Devil turned himself into a sixpence and when it came time to pay, instead of paying for the drink Jack pocketed the sixpence and kept it stored beside a silver cross. This prevented the Devil from changing back. Jack made a deal with the Devil before letting him free. The Devil could not harass him for ten years. When the Devil returned, Jack again tricked the Devil and surrounded him with crosses.

When Jack died he was refused entry at the Gates of Heaven. He went to the Gates of Hell and the Devil told him to go away, as Jack had made him promise not to claim his soul. Because it was dark, Jack didn't want to leave and he couldn't find his way. The Devil tossed Jack a glowing coal and Jack put it inside a turnip. Ever since with this "Jack O' Lantern", Stingy Jack's lonely soul has been roaming the earth. Other versions tell of Jack's death while stealing turnips and when he was refused entrance into both heaven and hell, he used a candle to light the turnip he still had with him. Other versions exist as well, I am sure.

The tradition of leaving the pumpkins out is to keep evil spirits away. Personally, I put a lit pumpkin out to delight my adorable little trick or treaters.

Superstitions can be a good thing, if not taken to an extreme. If your lucky shirt helps you remember your lines for an audition, great! Seeing it will boost your confidence, therefore, it has a placeob effect. It is when a superstition leads to obsessive behavior or fears that you might want to examine their value.

Take time to learn the history of a superstition.
Evaluate how it serves you.
Look at the logic behind the superstition.
Re-frame how you think about the outcome of "not" adhering to the ritual or belief. (This can be done with the help of neuro-lingusitic programming.)
Visualize yourself happy and successful, no matter what!

Mirror, Mirror...

2008-10-29T15:42:00.004-04:00

As a little girl, I loved to dance and twirl around in the living room. My mother had a beautiful, big mirror hanging in there, just perfect to view my moves as I made them. The reflection in my childlike mind was a Prima Ballerina, a chanteuse or a glamor queen. I would sing and dance the hours away.

One particular personal appearance resulted in my shoe flying off my foot and straight into that mirror. Broken, shattered were my the mirror and my heart at that moment. After all, I had doomed myself to seven years of bad luck and the disappointment of my mother both. I wept. My mother found me and consoled me. We would find another mirror to hang, she understood that accidents happen. Perhaps there had been a lesson in tying my shoes as well as getting a bit to out of control inside the house. My mother reassured me that my luck was not doomed for the next seven years.

The superstition that a broken mirror results in seven years of bad luck dates back to the ancient Romans. They believed that life renewed itself every seven years. If the person looking into a mirror was ill, the image would break the mirror and the run of bad luck would continue for seven years. At the end of seven years life would be renewed, ending the curse.

I imagine that to the first person to ever see their own reflection in the water, it seemed magical, mystical to see another so much like themselves. Mirrors have been attributed with the ability to foretell the future, create bad luck, create good luck and even hold onto a person's soul. (Think of the story of Dorian Gray.)

I have learned that mirrors are just that, mirrors. They are useful when I want to make sure my lipstick isn't smudged across my face (it can happen!) and fabulous tools for affirming the positive in my life. I created a video not too long ago regarding the power of eye contact in the mirror. I did not have seven years of bad luck, I make my luck! I learned a valuable lesson that day as well.

It seems, that my mother is wise, loving and very forgiving.

Ladders To Success

2008-10-27T10:57:00.004-04:00

With household repairs and Halloween decorations going up, there was a ladder or two out and around my house this weekend. No accidents occurred, I am happy to report. Just for fun, I must confess, I walked under the ladder while it was empty. I just had to tempt fate.

Walking beneath a ladder is a common Halloween superstition. People fear bad luck as a result. This stems back to the days before the gallows. Criminals were hung from the top rung of a ladder and their spirits were believed to linger underneath. Common folklore is that it is bad luck to walk beneath an open ladder and pass through the triangle of evil ghosts and spirits.

So far, my luck is holding out!

Of course, this ladder was more difficult to walk under, almost had bad luck trying to get through, than the one we used to reach up higher.

I checked with the OSHA website, while there are precautions set forth for buying ladders and using them, I couldn't find any references to Spirits lingering.

OSHA LADDER SAFETY

Off to get my week started, I'll let you know if things change. For now, I will keep my thoughts focused on the positive fun this week promises.

One quick sidestep here. My buddy Stan, over at Razzball, a fantasy baseball blog sent this to me. I think this means the feeling is mutual!

Friday Silliness.....

2008-10-24T07:50:00.004-04:00

Once again, I take a break from superstitions and fears. Sorry, but the World Series is just too exciting around here. GO RAYS!

I have not always been such a fan of baseball. When I was a little girl, I won Miss Little League. Pretty much all that meant was I rode in a convertible in a parade and waved my little gloved hands at people lining the streets, waiting for their Little Leaguer to walk by. My next brilliant moment of baseball lore, was even less impressive.

I was at a party at my in-laws home. There was a gentleman attending the party who my brother in law just wanted me to meet. He was pleased to introduce me to this person and have me ooh and aah over his ring. I looked at the ring and thought it was the biggest, gaudiest thing I had ever seen. Not wanting to say that, I wowed him all right. I said the perfect thing. I looked up from the ring and asked him, "What's a World Series?"

Needless to say, conversations stopped. I to this day, do not remember who he was. In the retelling of this story to the father of a friend of my son, he smiled. Seems he was a coach for the Toronto Blue Jays and had a similar gaudy ring. (Sigh)

I have shown my brilliance as well, with basketball. I used to take my sons to a local pottery paint shop for some "bonding" time. Well, this young man seemed to spend a lot of time there. He was very tall and athletic looking. He just seemed to have so much time on his hands. I was introduced by the shop owner to Matt Geiger, who seemed very polite and was busy painting dishes for his pets! Finally, one day, when he seemed particularly bored, I told him, "Matt, you really need to get a job." He laughed and agreed that would be a good idea.

Apparently it was during the Basketball strike of 1998-1999 and Matt was an NBA player. Oops, to me he was just a nice kid.

So, in honor of my amazing sports trivia, I share this video with you. It does show how the language can be used to confuse!