RECOVERY IS TRAINING

A FEW KEY WORDS ON RECOVERY TO ASSIST YOU IN MAXIMIZING YOUR TRAINING AND ACHIEVING YOUR POTENTIAL AS AN ATHLETE.

You can push your body all that you want but training only breaks it down. In order to rebuild to new levels your body needs recovery. It is during recovery that the body rebuilds stronger. While you sleep, between breakthrough efforts, in the valleys between the peaks and pretty much anytime other than when you are actually training.

Yet, most athletes consistently undervalue the power of recovery. They tend to focus on the pain rather than the gain. The secret to progression, personal bests and PR's however, is finding the balance between training and recovery. The faster you recover, the sooner you can overload the system through training again. So how much recovery do we need? What is the magic formula?  That depends.

Too little recovery and the body will not have time to fully adapt to the training stimulus. Plateaus in performance, fatigue, soreness, injuries and systemic over-training symptoms will soon follow.

Too much recovery, on the other hand will result in a reversal of the training effect, de-conditioning, stagnation and decreases in performance.

There are many variables that effect how much recovery an individual needs at any given time. It is not just the length and intensity of the training session that determine how much time we need to rebuild, regenerate and adapt. Genetics, age, emotional well-being, nutrition, sleep quality, illness, injury and all forms of stress (positive and negative) all effect our body's ability to adapt. The higher the level of total stress, the more time the body will need to adapt and realize a training effect. Quantifying the accumulative stresses that we place on the body (emotional, physical, mental etc) is critical for creating a personalized and effective recovery program.

There are a few principles and guidelines you can use to get started on creating your own training and recovery program. Start with these safe 'rules' and then begin watching, listening and tracking how your body responds. You will find out how much recovery your body needs in response to different types, volumes and intensities of stress through trial, error and observation. You are an experiment of one. Be wise and be patient. Here are some guidelines to get you started:

• Less is more. It is always better to be conservative with your training load than to push too much too soon and suffer the negative effects. Patience is required and slowing down will likely result in reaching your goals sooner in the end.

• 10% 'rule'. This is a very conservative approach to building your training program by adding no more than 10%(ish) each week. Consider the volume (time or mileage per session/week), intensity (speed, incline, resistance, heart rate, power) and type (changing surfaces, shoes, sports, techniques) when adding to your training program each week.

• Annual Recovery. Taking time throughout the year, after peaks in your training, is important to allow the body to catch up from the load and do the things it needs to do to adapt. Known as the 'Transition Period' in periodized training plans, this time should be focused on restoration and recovery, rather than reaching for new heights. Avoid the temptation of an extended 'off-season', however, as long periods of inactivity will result in de-conditioning and actually increasing stress on the body during a return to training. Work with a coach to learn more about creating an optimal transition phase into your plan.

• Monthly Recovery. All athletes incorporate recovery into their mesocycles and so should you. It doesn't matter if you are training for the Olympics or to run your first 5k, the body will benefit from regular decreases in training load. Decreasing the total load of training by 25-50% every fourth week is a safe place to start. You may need more or less than this, however.

• Weekly Recovery. Look at your week and ensure there are peaks and valleys in your training. A safe guideline is to alternate hard:easy days into your week. Take your life into consideration when labeling days as 'hard or easy'. Remember to quantify all of the stresses in your life including work and life stress. Give your body 48 hours between the most intensive training sessions in your week. Not only will your body adapt more fully, but you will be able to work harder at the next session, thereby increasing the training effect that much more. If you are too fatigued from your last workout to reach your training intensity targets, it really defeats the purpose. Recover fully so that you can train hard!

• Daily Recovery. Most professional athletes put their feet up for the other 16-20 hours a day that they aren't training. They get frequent passive therapies such as massage, they take naps and lay around as much as the can. You are not a professional athlete and I am guessing you can't lay around all day. But you can plan in little pockets of recovery to help your body adapt. Make a list of all of the things that replenish and re-balance your body. Try to do more of those on a daily or weekly basis. Every minute will add up.

Modalities to encourage recovery:

• Sleep. The more the better. Get whatever you can. And then try and get some more.

• Active recovery. Gentle, low intensity movement to increase circulation. Walks, light spins, yoga.

• Passive therapy. Manual therapy including massage and self massage, acupuncture, chiropractic etc all help the body restore itself.

• Contrasting hot/cold – 5 mins alternating between each and help through increasing circulation without adding mechanical stress. Use hot/cold packs to encourage circulation in specific areas. I love my wood sauna for recovery days. Oh ya.

• Feel good things. What makes you happy? What decreases your stress? What feels therapeutic to you? Do more of those things every day and every week. A sense of well-being can only help to decrease your stress and improve your recovery/adaptation.

The magic formula for finding the perfect training-stress combination is an elusive, dynamic, ever changing balance that varies from person to person, year to year, month to month, week to week and even day to day. It is a delicate cocktail, a fine line and a lifelong study requiring patience, persistence and curiosity. Ultimately it means listening to your body, respecting it's wishes and responding to it's needs, regardless of what your training schedule says or what YOU want to do.  Recovery IS training. Sometimes we need to be reminded of that;)

Signs that you need more recovery:

• Feeling exhausted or overwhelmed

• Muscle soreness for more than 48 hours

• ‘Pain’ - small aches or niggles that last more than a few days

• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping for much more than normal but never feeling rested

• Irritability

• Lethargy / Loss of motivation / Loss of JOY.

• Can’t maintain target pace for intensity sessions. Once you drop 10% below the target pace- the intervals are over for the day. Finish with Z1 and save it for next time.

• Can’t maintain target intensity for training sessions.  Easy workouts still feel ‘too hard’ when you lower intensity.

Kriya Pranayama

Mahavatar Babaji: The Eternal Yogi
In the realm of spiritual enlightenment,
His teachings transcend religious boundaries, embracing all seekers indiscriminately, reminding them that divinity resides within and is accessible to all. Whether seeking enlightenment, solace, or a deeper connection with the divine, the presence and wisdom of Mahavatar Babaji beckon to the seekers of truth, inviting them to explore the boundless depths of the human spirit.

Benefits of Kriya Pranayama:

1. Enhanced Postural Awareness: Kriya Pranayama can improve your posture, helping you maintain a healthier and more comfortable physical alignment.

2. Optimal Oxygen Exchange: By mastering Kriya techniques, you'll experience improved oxygen exchange in your body, leading to better overall physical health and performance.

3. Calm and Quieted Mind: Kriya Pranayama is a powerful tool for quieting the mind. It provides a specific focus, leading to a heightened sense of calm and tranquility, making it easier to delve into deep meditation.

4. Pineal Gland Activation: The awakening of the pineal gland through Kriya practices can stimulate improved visualization, creative thinking, and expanded ideas, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and innovative mind.

What is Kriya Pranayama (pronounced Prah-nah-yahm) The purpose of Kriya Pranayama is to awaken awareness and activate higher states of consciousness. All Pranayama is beneficial for postural awareness, oxygen exchange, improved physical health & performance. In addition to improved sense of calm by quieting the mind using a specific focus. Kriya's are specific breathing techniques designed to use the energy in the body to clean it's energy centres and awaken the pineal gland (the gland associated with improved visualization, idea expansion, ingenuity and creative expression). Kriya's combine specific breathing techniques with visualization and a specific intention - and they make focusing during meditation practice much more enjoyable and with much greater ease!

Kriya Pranayama is a form of Pranayama, the ancient yogic practice of controlled breathing. The primary purpose of Kriya Pranayama is to expand awareness and activate elevated states of consciousness. While all forms of Pranayama offer advantages such as improved posture, enhanced oxygen exchange, and physical well-being, Kriya takes it a step further.

Kriya Pranayama techniques are specially designed to harness the body's energy to cleanse its energy centers, or chakras, and awaken the pineal gland. This gland, often referred to as the "third eye," is associated with improved visualization, idea expansion, ingenuity, and creative expression.

The Magic of Kriya: What sets Kriya Pranayama apart from other breathing practices is the combination of specific breathing techniques, visualization, and focused intention. This combination not only enhances your meditation experience but also makes it more enjoyable and accessible.

Kriya Yoga and Pranayama

1. Origins: Kriya Yoga is believed to be an ancient practice that was revived by Babaji. It's a comprehensive spiritual path that includes meditation techniques, ethical disciplines, and specific breathing exercises (Pranayama).

2. Kriya Pranayama: This is a central technique in Kriya Yoga involving controlled breathing. It is believed to accelerate spiritual development and foster a deep sense of inner peace.

3. Dissemination: The teachings of Kriya Yoga were popularized in the West through Paramahansa Yogananda, a direct disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya, who was in turn a disciple of Babaji. Yogananda’s book "Autobiography of a Yogi" contains many references to Babaji and explains Kriya Yoga principles.

4. Global Influence: The teachings of Babaji and the practice of Kriya Yoga have had a profound impact on spiritual seekers worldwide, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

5. While Babaji remains an enigmatic figure, his attributed teachings and the practice of Kriya Pranayama continue to inspire and guide individuals on their spiritual journey. It's important to approach these teachings with respect for their traditional roots and an understanding of their deep spiritual significance.
   

Pranayama, when practiced correctly and under the guidance of an experienced instructor, can offer numerous benefits for mental and physical well-being. However, there are some contraindications and precautions to consider before engaging in Pranayama practices. It's essential to consult with a qualified yoga instructor or healthcare professional if you have any of the following conditions or situations:

1. Respiratory Conditions: Pranayama involves controlled breathing, so individuals with severe respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or acute bronchitis should consult their healthcare provider before attempting any Pranayama techniques.

1. Cardiovascular Issues: People with heart conditions, high blood pressure (hypertension), or a history of heart disease should practice Pranayama cautiously and under supervision. Certain breath-holding techniques may not be suitable for individuals with these conditions.

2. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should avoid certain Pranayama techniques, especially those involving forceful or rapid breath retention, as it may affect blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus. It's essential to consult with a prenatal yoga instructor for suitable modifications.

3. Epilepsy: Pranayama practices that involve rapid, forceful breath retention may trigger seizures in individuals with epilepsy. It's crucial for those with epilepsy to consult their healthcare provider before attempting Pranayama.

4. Hernias: People with abdominal hernias, such as inguinal or umbilical hernias, should avoid Pranayama techniques that put excessive pressure on the abdominal area. Gentle practices and modifications may be necessary.

5. Recent Surgeries: Individuals who have undergone recent abdominal, chest, or head surgeries should avoid rigorous Pranayama practices until they receive clearance from their surgeon or healthcare provider.

6. Glaucoma: Pranayama practices that involve breath retention and increased intraocular pressure may not be suitable for individuals with glaucoma. Consult an eye specialist or healthcare provider before attempting these techniques.

7. Psychological Conditions: People with severe mental health conditions or a history of panic attacks should approach Pranayama with caution. Some Pranayama techniques may affect emotional states, and it's essential to practice under the guidance of a mental health professional if necessary.

8. Extreme Fatigue: Performing Pranayama when extremely fatigued or sleep-deprived can lead to dizziness or fainting. Ensure that you are well-rested before engaging in Pranayama practices.

9. Medication: Some medications may affect your ability to practice Pranayama safely. If you are taking medications that influence your respiratory or cardiovascular system, consult with your healthcare provider before starting Pranayama.

10. Pain or Discomfort: If you experience pain, discomfort, or any unusual sensations during Pranayama practice, stop immediately and seek guidance from a qualified instructor.

It's crucial to remember that Pranayama is a profound practice that should be approached mindfully and respectfully of your individual health and circumstances. Consult with a healthcare professional or experienced yoga instructor to determine the most suitable Pranayama techniques for your specific needs and to ensure a safe and beneficial practice. Always listen to your body and practice with awareness.

"Previous study on pranayama and hypertension showed a reduction in the heart rate, blood pressure, and rate pressure product [15]. Improvement in cardiorespiratory parameters were seen in a recent study on Nadi Shodhana Pranayama, which is suggestive of an increase in cardiorespiratory efficiency [16].

Upadhyay, J., Nandish N. S., Shetty, S., Saoji, A. A., & Yadav, S. S. (2023). Effects of Nadishodhana and Bhramari Pranayama on heart rate variability, auditory reaction time, and blood pressure: A randomized clinical trial in hypertensive patients. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 14(4), 100774."

There are plenty of scholarly articles depicting the benefits of Nadi Shodhana specifically as a form of Yogic Breathing with benefits for the body and mind. You can continue your education here and see where your research takes you.

Sarah Anne Seads, BA Kinesiology & YTT450hr is a student of Life, Human Physiology and the Science of the Mind. She spends as much time as possible studying the Game of Life through living her own experiences.

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Clearing

This fall, why not take on a wee challenge with me:). You know those boots you haven’t worn in the past 4 winters? How about that box (or 10) you’ve been meaning to sort through in your basement? How many photo’s do you have collecting on your phone?:). What about that shed/back closet/pantry/fridge door/ etc?:)

When we change, it can be very helpful to clear past things that no longer work for us. This can feel emotional and that is normal as “we”, our ego selves, that is, attach ourselves to things that become representations of ourselves. Change is difficult for the ego. Yet change is also necessary when we grow. Honouring these changes through regular clearing may be helpful in releasing old allegiances. Too many ties to too many things, especially things that are outdated clogs up our “circuitry.” “Who are we?”, the mind wants to understand. The actual act of clearing things can be very powerful to align your subconscious mind with current identity - the person you are NOW, today.

The physical act of clearing can provide a chance to honour the versions of us that helped us get where we are now and also who we are consciously becoming.

Clearing helps us gain mental focus and clarity, by removing ‘ties’ that the subconscious mind see’s us as no longer needing. And that allows us to focus our mind more clearly on what is truly important to us now.

Even better! Once we create extra space, we have room to grow into future versions of who we are want to be.

This month, I invite us all to partake in a little ritual of Daily Clearing. 5mins per day. Here are some suggestions:

-Phone photos

-Social media accounts / people you follow

-Closets

-Kitchen cupboards

-That back shed;)

-Car

-Emails

-Computer Files

And so much more…

This may even be a time to let go of relationships that are no longer contributing to your health and well-being. This may be completed symbolically, using journalling, or in your inner vision, using higher self imagining conversation, or this might happen through face to face meeting. Forgiveness and compassion for yourself and others is the most soothing way we can move through these changing relationships and changing seasons.

Be prepared! Once you start releasing…more of what today’s version of you can come in streaming so this can also be a VERY good moment to get CRYSAL CLEAR on who you are now and the version of you, that you are loving into existence with every thought, act and experience. I recommend you have this in your mind, journal, vision board, fridge etc before beginning. WHY are you clearing these worn out things associated with your past? WHO have you become that you admire? And What VISION will you be creating space for? Write those out before beginning. and then…set your timer once a day for the 30 days:)

5 mins starting on the first of the month (or any day;).

Are you ready?

I want to hear about your experience!

Much love and happy clearing!

xo

Sarah

My Cacao + Race Experiment

Cacao! Oh my great love that I didn’t know I needed until I found it in 2021! What a dream ‘she’, this sacred plant known as Mama Cacao in ceremonial circles, has been to me. Assisting in the healing of my physical and emotional being. Launching my Spiritual practices. Assisting with my focusing, attention, meditation, communication and heart health.

I had a ‘synchronistic’ encounter, thanks to my Teacher Ksenia Brief in her Conscious Social Media Mastermind Circle, in March of 2021 and she has been an important part of my life ever since.

I drink and meditate with Ceremonial Grade Cacao nearly every day. I consume this Sacred Plant each time for different reasons: be it for reflecting, introspecting, 1:1 and group connecting, channelling higher Intuitive Guidance through my deep Theta Meditations, focusing, organizing, calming myself, centering, training, racing etc. Ceremonial Cacao is my highest priority plant ally that benefits every aspect of my physical, emotional and mental health! I love cacao! Please dive deeper if you feel called to in this extended blog post here! And you can read along to find out just how WILD I have gotten in my use of this plant (in my Athletics!).

Back in 2021 I had no idea what cacao even was! And perhaps like you, assumed it was just ‘chocolate’. If this is you - feel free to read my overview post on the who what why and how of all things Cacao - All About Ceremonial Cacao.

Next up! A brand NEW adventure, in the spirit of experimentation, I used cacao to improve my endurance, overall health and well-being, which resulted, I do believe, in marked improvements in performance for my sport - trail and ultra running. Fast forward to now and you could say I am a cacao pusher of sorts ;) lol! Only because it has had SUCH a positive, subtle, yet so transformative power in my life. YOU might also see these changes if you feel called to experiment with this and other intuitive plants to support your training, racing, health and life!

Once I was utilizing the medicine of cacao for my rituals and daily meditations it was time to play with her in the trails. What I mean was, I understood this plant had been used by the ancient Mayan’s to travel great distances overland. So why wouldn’t it fuel my sport? I had been guided to fast, using the plant for morning mediations, then not eating until after my mid to afternoon day runs. In the end, after months of continuous use, it seemed my body had been forced to adapt to more fat oxidative performance. By inadvertently using the compounds of this near pure and quite high in vegetable fat plant, my body had switched to fat utilization vs sugar burning to fund it’s playground and maximize energy efficiency (carbohydrate sparing) during the long runs and day to day activities as well. I found I was much more capable of long sustained low to even moderate intense paced running without the need to replenish using gels or snacks. I was running 3 or 4 hours without needing a snack! Add to that my intense use of Pranayama to expand my lung volume and breathing capacity and voila! More adaptation without excessive training found me adept and adapt with much less training and effort than I had experienced in the past.

Add to this the slow release fuel source and you just don't need to supplement with too much above and beyond the basics. So, when I found myself preparing to pack for my last 100 mile run in the summer of 2022 I was pretty certain that cacao would be a part of that. I asked my good friend Kim Senechal to assist me as part of her ‘crewing duties’ and she obliged! Making cacao for me to drink at two separate stages in this 100 mile journey. I thought the cacao would just bring me pleasure, comfort, when the going got tough. But I felt great most of the day and although the thought of cacao did boost my mood, it was the steady stream of fluid endurance fat and my adaptation which seemed to come online to assist me in overcoming the ‘big one’ - and my ongoing ultra race nemesis - the “HB” or heart burn (if you’ve been following me, you know the one!!). Turns out stress reduction through Pranayama, self regulation, meditation AND … CACAO, I believe, can decrease your need to manipulate the bodies over adaptive response to manage the signs of heart burn - namely PAIN and severe burning in the chest. When heightened sensitivity responses decreases, so do the signs and symptoms that give heart burn it’s name. By dually alleviating the excessive stress activation through breath work, hypnosis and meditation, combined with a liquid only ++ Cacao at intervals diet in the race, I did not have a single sign, for the first time in over 10 years of racing ultras, of pain related to acid reflux / heart burn!! It was amazing! Everything came together - but it sure was nice to keep my system moving at light speed, without the need to digest packets of food or gels etc. Just some cacao, lot’s of water and tailwind for sugar and electrolytes. It was a blast!

If you would like to try your hand at experimenting with this and other plants here is what I suggest:

Start slowly - consider this a project, with variables and you don’t want to go overboard, and do too much too fast. Take the time you need and keep track of your variables and results.

Know your sourcing - NOT ALL Cacao is created equally! noooooooo! Be sure to check out my previous blog post to learn what makes true ceremonial level cacao different from the rest - with links to purchase your own cacao from my very favourite of brands.

Be curious and stay open minded! Using your intuition can lead you to places you never knew could exist! This requires open minded and explorative self ness:)

Have fun, keep a diary, know your sources, and trust your intuition for doses and plant sources that could take you to your next level experience and performance!

Sarah,

xo

All About Ceremonial Cacao (with discount code & links)

Cacao…ahhhhh…

Are you ready to get started on your own cacao journey?

• Recently I was featured on the Cacao Laboratory blog in an interview with Jason on all things cacao, training, awakening and merging science and intuition for health, racing and performance - with the help of mama cacao!

• If you are ready to purchase ceremonial grade cacao from my favourite brand, Cacao Laboratory, you can start shopping, using my 10% off discount code : SARAHSEADS10 Please feel free to share this code with your friends and family.

• I recommend this variety box of four, which includes one bar of each elemental blend so you can get a feel for the different tastes and experiences of each.

• Watch this short instagram video to see how I prepare my ceremonial cacao for daily rituals!

• Stay tuned as I begin to share more on my personal journey with Cacao. You can join me in my new circle via email, using the link below.

- join me fire 🔥 side -

Do you want to begin to learn more about ceremonial cacao? Perhaps you are wondering what the difference is between cacao and cocoa. Or, you may have begun to hear about the amazing health benefits of cacao. Do you want to know how ceremonial cacao is processed?  If you want to know all about cacao, please read on!

So much has changed in my life these past 2 years since I experienced a significant energetic spiritual awakening…shifting and moving, growing and releasing, expressing and devoting… Devotion to daily ritual has been a cornerstone of it all, and in the middle of that stone lay the heart of cacao.  Cacao is a natural plant, used ceremonially and medicinally in meso America since ancient Mayan time.  Traditionally, cacao was used in ceremony as a heart opening medicine, to drop deeper into the heart, in meditation to connect to our deepest truths and in connection to community, to the Other, to nature and to the Self.

Drinking cacao has been a beautiful aspect of my daily ritual though assisting my grounding and easing my connection - to my inner world through heart centred meditation, and to my outer world, through open hearted expansion and loving connection.  I’ve even been experimenting with cacao as a super sustainable energy source for body and mind during endurance training and racing, and the effects have been amazing!

Ceremonial grade traditional cacao is loaded with macro and micro nutrients that knock the socks off of the superfood community.  Cacao is absolutely loaded with magnesium, antioxidants, calcium, zinc, copper and selenium.  

And there is more…:)

Have you heard of ananandamide?  How about phenylethylamine? These compounds, known as the Bliss & the Love’ chemicals respectively, are overflowing in every cup of cacao.  It is a heart medicine, for more than it’s heart health compounds.  Traditionally produced, raw cacao actually re-creates the delicious feelings associated with bliss and love through a chemical structure.  Add to that the most talked about compound in Cacao, theobromine, and you can see why this is considered a super food of super foods.  The Cacao Tree, called Theobroma, is known as ‘the food of the gods’ for a reason!  Theobromine is an alkaloid that acts as a heart stimulant, dilates blood vessels and reduces blood pressure as well as creating a steady, yet alert energy, totally unlike the stimulating effects of foods high in caffeine.

All that, and it also tastes really, really good;)

Cacao is not cocoa and not all cacao is created the same.  Cacao is NOT cocoa powder that you see on the baking shelves at the local store. Cacao is NOT the chocolate found in any chocolate bar in your cupboard;). Traditional cacao, is minimally processed and contains all the healthy nutrients including the plants natural cacao butter.  Cacao, is the undivided cacao plant, everything included, as it came to be.

Bonus - not only does mama cacao give you the most grounding, feel good start to your day, it doesn’t bring you jitters and can keep excess caffeine away (great swap for coffee!).

When purchasing cacao, the way it has been treated from seed to cup is the greatest factor, I believe, in it’s potency and ability to expand and connect us through the heart.  There are strains of cacao, just like any food, that have been ravaged, destroying any medicinal benefits in the process.  From injustice on the farm fields to pesticides, over processing, over heating and really, any other commonplace, unethical or unsustainable food production practice, the way cacao is created varies greatly and thus so does it’s benefit to the world, the workers and the people drinking it.

And so! That is why I have partnered with a cacao brand that specializes in the production of true, ceremonial grade cacao - from seed to cup.  I have been drinking Cacao Laboratory cacao since the beginning of my journey and it is one of my absolute favourite types of cacao to have in my cup:). Cacao Laboratory was created to bring the spirit of the cacao plant into the hands and hearts of those who are called to expand, connect and step into their purpose in this life. 

• You can purchase Cacao Laboratory cacao using my affiliate discount code SARAHSEADS10 if you feel inspired! As a proud affiliate of Cacao Laboratory I receive a referral commission when my code is used, at no additional expense to you. Thank you for your support should you choose to use my referral code!

• Learn more about the traditional uses and processing of ceremonial cacao by watching the Cacao Laboratory short documentary. It’s really interesting!

• Follow my instagram adventures to see how I play with cacao and what we are scheming together next!

  Happy cacao ritualling and I would love to share a cup with you one day!

Sarah

What Is Hypnotherapy?

“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, can be achieved.

— Napoleon Hill

WHAT IS HYPNOSIS?

Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation that enables you to access your subconscious mind - home to your inner thoughts, fears and deepest emotions. 

Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state. We are in a hypnotic state many times throughout the day. When we are driving home but don’t remember the drive there, when we are solely focused on one task at the exclusion of all else, when we are in a flow state, and during those final moments before we drift off to sleep.

During this relaxed state we are able to quiet the conscious, critical thinking mind and access the powerful subconscious mind. It is a very pleasant and peaceful state, very similar to the calming feelings experienced during meditation.

WHAT IS HYPNOTHERAPY?

Hypnotherapy is the process of using hypnosis to achieve a beneficial result, such as a pain relief, removal of negative behaviour patterns or freedom from phobias.

Hypnotherapy combines hypnosis with professional Coaching tools to help clients reach any goal they can conceive.

Hypnosis in its essence is accepting a suggestion.   

You cannot accept any suggestions that you do not agree with and wish to accept.  You cannot be hypnotized unless you wish to be.  All hypnosis, therefor, is self-hypnosis. 

I recently completed a series of hypnotherapy sessions with Sarah to work on (mostly) focus and balance in my life. I went in with an open mind and a positive outlook, but I was still surprised at how effective each session was. The tools and strategies I learned from both the hypno experience and discussions with Sarah will be valuable for years to come. On top of that, each hypno session is like a power nap that makes you feel rejuvenated and fresh for the rest of the day! Highly recommend opening yourself up to this experience.

-Matt O'Meara, B.Sc., R.Ac.
Registered Acupuncturist

WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN A HYPNOTHERAPY SESSION?

The majority of session time is focused on future-based performance and positivity coaching and counselling, to help you get very clear with that it is that you want more of in your life.

During the hypnosis portion of a session, the Therapist will facilitate hypnosis and lead you through a specific and therapeutic, guided visualization focused on achieving your desired outcome. You can simply sit back and enjoy a relaxing guided visualization, allowing your subconscious mind to accept your own suggestions so you may achieve your desired goals and outcomes.

During the session, you will receive many powerful tools and exercises to use every day, as a way to accelerate the process and re-enforce the changes you are creating.

Hypnotherapy, in contrast to many traditional forms of Therapy, is future based and the time is spent focused on the future and the positive outcomes that you desire. Clinical Hypnotherapy is ‘solution-based therapy’.

Hypnotherapy is very positive and powerful and lasting changes can happen very quickly!

WHO CAN HYPNOTHERAPY HELP?

Anyone and everyone! If you are ready to make a change in your life or if you have a goal, then you can achieve it with Hypnotherapy…and fast.

Hypnotherapy can help with everything from improving physical and mental health to overcoming fears and phobias, releasing limiting beliefs, improving performance, healing from illness and injury, improving interpersonal relationships, getting stoked on life!…and everything in between. 

Hypnotherapy can help you:

• Overcome fears and phobias

• Quit undesirable habits

• Release limiting beliefs

• Manage anxiety & depression

• Overcome obstacles

• Quit smoking

• Lose weight

• Improve feelings of well being

• Improve sleep

• Improve positive outlook on life

• Improve healing from illness or injury

• Improve performance

• Improve interpersonal relationships

• Improve self esteem & confidence

And so much more. Hypnotherapy can help you achieve anything you want more of in your life. With Hypnotherapy you can become the person you wish to be!

Sarah x