It is a well known fact that smoking is dangerous to the health, but it is as well a known fact that giving up the habit can be extremely difficult. If you have tried the gum, the patches, the pills and other products to stop smoking and still haven't quit, consider hypnosis. Recent studies have shown that among the many ways to quit smoking is the method of hypnosis. Hypnotherapy has been used for many decades to help people quit smoking. However, it has only recently been established as a proven and effective tool for managing nicotine addiction.

Experts, having reviewed studies concerning hypnosis and smoking cessation, find hypnosis to have a success rate of 66 percent, compared to the 25 percent success rate behavioral therapy and nicotine replacement program claims. Meanwhile, trying to quit smoking on your own only reports a low five percent success rate.

The act of hypnosis places people mentally in an altered state, whereby they are more susceptible to suggestion. In hypnosis the subconscious mind, said to be the most powerful part of our mind, is reprogrammed. The subconscious mind is responsible for automatic bodily functions as well as our habits and emotionally and fear responses.

Hypnosis can guarantee such success rates only when it is proper process is done. Much of the success does rely on the hypnotherapist so do your homework during the selection process. You can look for hypnotherapists in local newspapers, magazines, print advertisements, and even the internet. Health care professionals can also refer you to a qualified hypnotherapist. Best yet, to find a quality hypnotherapist, ask people who personally have had successful dealings with one.

If you do not known anyone personally who has worked with a hypnotherapist, you can visit online forums. Online forums are often a great place to find a licensed hypnotherapist experienced in smoking cessation.

Once the appointment is set, most likely the first visit would mainly cover the assessment and evaluation. Following sessions will then be the ongoing process of hypnotherapy to eliminate smoking addiction. It is recommended that a minimum of four hypnotherapy sessions is required for best success. Those who provide one session of hypnotherapy with claims of being able to aid smoking cessation are more likely to disappoint you.

Advantages of hypnosis to stop smoking:

Hypnosis not only is more effective than other nicotine cessation programs, but also enjoys certain advantages such as: