With over 6.9 million smokers in the UK, according to the Office for National Statistics, the harmful effects of smoking and vaping remain a pressing public health issue. Despite the availability of nicotine replacement therapies, gums, and medications, many people struggle to quit smoking permanently. Expert hypnotherapist Marygrace Anderson, a contributor to London Mums magazine, highlights how hypnotherapy offers a scientifically backed, holistic approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of nicotine addiction.
What is Hypnotherapy?
“Hypnotherapy is a powerful technique that helps individuals break free from ingrained habits by working directly with the subconscious mind,” explains Marygrace. The practice involves entering a deeply relaxed state, allowing the subconscious to become more receptive to positive suggestions.
“Contrary to how hypnosis is often portrayed in the media, it’s a natural state of focused attention – much like being absorbed in a book or a daydream,” says Marygrace. This state enables clients to reframe their thoughts and behaviours around smoking and vaping, empowering them to make lasting changes.
The British Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BSCH) describes hypnosis as a state of heightened relaxation and suggestibility, where individuals can address habits and thought patterns that are otherwise difficult to access.
Why Hypnotherapy Works for Smoking and Vaping
Smoking and vaping addictions stem from a combination of physical nicotine dependence and psychological triggers like stress or social cues. While traditional cessation methods focus on the physical aspect, hypnotherapy tackles the underlying habits and emotional associations tied to smoking.
“During hypnotherapy, we work to replace negative associations – like cravings and stress relief – with positive reinforcements,” says Marygrace. “For example, we help clients visualise themselves as healthier, happier, and free from the grip of nicotine.”
Scientific research supports hypnotherapy’s effectiveness. A study in the American Journal of Medicine revealed that hypnotherapy is twice as effective as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for long-term smoking cessation. Additionally, a Cochrane Review noted promising outcomes for smokers who underwent hypnotherapy compared to those who used other quitting methods.
A Personalised Approach
According to Marygrace, one of the key benefits of hypnotherapy is its personalised nature. “Every client has unique reasons for smoking or vaping, whether it’s stress, boredom, or social habits,” she says. “By tailoring sessions to address these triggers, we help clients build stronger, more sustainable motivation to quit.”
Sessions typically involve guiding clients into a state of deep relaxation, followed by positive suggestions and visualisation techniques. “We might help someone imagine their future as a non-smoker – feeling energised, saving money, and enjoying improved health,” Marygrace explains.
Commitment is Key
While hypnotherapy offers a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of addiction, Marygrace emphasises that client motivation is critical. “The best results come from those who are genuinely ready to quit. Hypnotherapy can reduce cravings and rewire thought patterns, but commitment plays a crucial role in long-term success.”
A Holistic and Natural Solution
Unlike nicotine patches or medications, hypnotherapy is entirely natural, relying on the mind’s capacity to create change. Moreover, it often alleviates stress and anxiety, which are common barriers to quitting.
“Many of my clients tell me that not only have they quit smoking, but they also feel more equipped to handle life’s challenges without turning to nicotine,” Marygrace shares.
Real-Life Success
Marygrace recalls a particularly rewarding case: “One of my clients was a long-term smoker who’d tried everything to quit. After three sessions, she not only gave up smoking but also felt empowered to take control of other areas of her life. That’s the transformative power of hypnotherapy.”
Is Hypnotherapy Right for You?
If you’ve struggled to quit smoking or vaping through traditional methods, hypnotherapy might be the solution you’ve been looking for. By addressing both the mental and emotional ties to nicotine, this approach can help you achieve lasting freedom.
For expert guidance on hypnotherapy, reach out to Marygrace Anderson at MG Hypnosis in Putney, SW London, or explore more at www.mghypnosis.co.uk
Special offer given to London Mum’s Magazine readers, with a simple promo on Marygrace’s website – Get 10% off a first session valid until 31st March 2025 using “London Mums”.
