‘Or, perhaps you may imagine that you’re drinking something nice which gives you a beautiful warmth. Perhaps there’s something like a warmly glowing ball rolling around within you. Allow it to gently warm you inside so that you feel all soft and relaxed. Bring one hand to your mouth and lick two fingers. Now stroke the moist fingers over your forehead. Just stroke your forehead and feel the coolness of the moisture. If you want to moisten your forehead again, feel free to do so. And then, while you breathe in, feel the refreshing coolness of your forehead. Imagine again that giant rag doll, or rag animal from your childhood, lying with its head in the cool shade. Now just lie there and completely relax for a while thinking of the rag doll and its body warmed so wonderfully, comfortably, relaxed in the sun.
Again, feel the gentle cradling of the waves of your breathing rhythm. And, while breathing in, feel the cool shade and the coolness on your forehead.
While breathing out, feel how your body is so comfortably relaxed.
‘In time, you become more and more aware of being refreshed as you breathe in. And, when you decide it’s time to end the state you’re now in, yawn and breathe in deeply and refreshingly while you stretch and flex your arms and legs. And then open your eyes. Look around and breathe in once more. If you were lying down, sit up by supporting yourself with your arms while you breathe out.’ (This keeps the body relaxed and prevents dizziness after the deep relaxation.)
Further information
This sampling of many of the approaches that may be used in the management of chronic pain is likely to whet the appetite of readers. It is suggested, therefore, that those interested in pursuing them further should contact the local state branch of the Australian Society of Hypnosis Limited or any hypnosis society affiliated with the International Society of Hypnosis which is based at the Austin Hos¬pital, in Heidelberg , Victoria. These are organisations consisting of only medical practitioners, dentists and psychologists. All have attended or are attending, recognised courses in hypnosis.
*153\37\8*
