Hypnotized by Peripheral Vision?
One of my favorite and most simple techniques that I have learned from another hypnotist awhile back, is called Peripheral Vision. I have been using this technique anytime I need to anchor myself into the moment or release tension. This technique can be used for relaxation and stress reduction or it can also be used to program yourself with a positive affirmation.
How does Peripheral Vision self-hypnosis technique work?
You may be sitting or standing or even laying down. However, I personally use this technique when I am on the go. So, I usually use it while standing up or sitting.
Find a point of focus in front of you and keep gazing at the spot without moving any muscles in your eyes. I suggest that you look right ahead of you, not on the floor or ceiling if you are inside, nor the ground or sky if you are outdoors.
As you keep gazing at the spot in front of you for a moment, begin to expand your vision by noticing and paying attention to the things around that spot. Remember not to move your eyes. Become aware of what you are seeing beyond the spot and keep going further as you notice other things in your peripheral vision. Keep your eyes on the same original spot in front of you. And yet try to see all around you, without moving your eyes. Become aware of your peripheral vision and how much you can actually see even without directly looking at all of those things .
Notice, how as you expand your vision, you are barely thinking of anything during that time. You become thoughtless. Your entire attention is focused on how much you can see without moving your eyes. It may feel as if you are being drawn into the space of your peripheral vision. You become more calm and present. Your eyes feel more relaxed and so is the rest of your body.
When should I use this self-hypnosis technique?
Use this self-hypnosis technique if you need a moment of calm or for stress reduction. For example, if you are in an argument with someone or feel tense or nervous, take a moment and begin to focus on the peripheral vision. This can be an exercise lasting anywhere from 1 to 5 minutes. It will relax you and enable you to release stressful feelings and thoughts. You will naturally elicit a relaxation response, the opposite of fight-or-flight response.
Use can also this self -hypnosis technique when you want to do some mental programming. Focus on the peripheral vision to help you enter the state of receptivity to suggestion. Do it for about 5 -10 minutes this time. When you are relaxed and thoughtless, you can close your eyes and begin to focus on one positive affirmation. Speak your positive affirmation either out loud or silently within yourself for about 5 to 10 minutes. Open your eyes when you are finished feeling wonderful and recharged.
