RISING WOMEN EXPERTS...

I am preparing for a one hour presentation and am incredibly nervous. Do you have any techniques to help me calm down?
    By Jennifer Alexander of Full Circle Hypnosis

Preparing for a presentation has two parts; the preparation phase and then of course delivery. Hypnosis can help with both stages of making an engaging presentation.

The preparation phase involves reviewing the material to see if it needs to be updated, corrected, or in some cases written! Hypnosis, or in this case, self-hypnosis can help you clear your mind, de-stress and get creative.

A short self-hypnosis session involves a quiet space where you can close your eyes, breathe deeply and use your imagination. To begin self-hypnosis, sit or lounge comfortably. Then think these words; say them to yourself in your mind: “My left arm is relaxing more and more…my right arm relaxes more and more.” Work through each part of your body, concentrating on it relaxing. Your pulse and heart rate will slow and muscle tension will disappear reducing body stress. Other physiological reactions are triggered as well. The immune system increases production of protective cells and levels of stress hormones in the body lower. This state of mind allows you to think more clearly and effectively.

Next, while remaining deeply relaxed picture yourself at the podium or on stage. The audience members are nodding and smiling. In this scene, imagine receptive audience members who really “get” whatever it is you’re trying to convey. Really bask in the feeling of being understood as you gradually move back out of the hypnotic state, waking your body up systematically to full consciousness. Then take that feeling back with you get back to work on your preparations.

Spending ten or fifteen minutes when you practice this self- hypnosis technique can help establish a healthy pattern that becomes “learned” along with the words. This will help you get in the right frame of mind every time so you give more engaging and effective presentations.

The most important part of course is to set aside a few minutes right before your presentation to calm your nerves and clear your head using self-hypnosis, preferably the method or routine you’ve been practising. Making self-hypnosis a part of your routine when preparing for a presentation can help you condition yourself to offer your best anytime you have to face a crowd.

For more advice of the benefits of hypnosis or to try hypnosis yourself, contact Jennifer Alexander, owner of Full Circle Hypnosis at 403.873.7501 www.fullcirclehypnosis.com