Can hypnosis help with nail-biting?

Do you bite and chew your nails without noticing you're doing it? Are you embarrassed and fed up with the awful state of your fingers? Like most nail-biters, you've probably tried many things to break the habit, but nothing seems to work for long. 

Don't worry - you're not alone. Quitting nail biting is notoriously tricky because people often do it without realising they're doing it. That means that by the time you know you're biting your nails, it's often too late - the damage has already been done.

Even when you can catch yourself before you start nibbling on your nails, the urge can be so strong that it feels impossible to resist. Have you ever found yourself mindlessly chewing on your nails even though you'd made up your mind beforehand not to do it? If so, you know just how powerful the urge to bite can be.

So why is it so hard to stop biting your nails?

There are a few reasons why nail biting can be a tough habit to kick. First, it's a subconscious pattern—meaning you do it without realising it. Second, nail biting can be addictive. Endorphins are released when you bite your nails, making you feel happier. This can make it hard to stop, even if you want to. Finally, nail biting can be a coping mechanism for anxiety or stress. 

Why Hypnosis or Hypnotherapy can help with Nail Biting?

There are several theories about why hypnosis can help with nail-biting, but one of the most likely explanations is that it helps to break the "mindless" cycle of stress or anxiety that leads to nail-biting in the first place. 

Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation in which your subconscious mind is more open to suggestions. 

While under hypnosis, you remain aware of your surroundings and can accept or reject the suggestions. However, because hypnosis leaves you feeling relaxed and calm, it's often easier to go along with the directions.

Once you're in this state, the therapist will make suggestions to help you break the habit of nail biting. These suggestions may include picturing yourself with beautiful, healthy nails or feeling disgusted by the taste of nails in your mouth.

What to expect from a hypnosis session to help with nail-biting?

During a hypnotherapy session to help with nail-biting, a trained therapist will guide you into a state of relaxation and then make suggestions to help you stop biting your nails. 

A certified psychotherapist usually performs hypnosis with specialised training in using hypnosis to help people achieve their goals. If you are considering attending a hypnosis session, you should know a few things beforehand.

To be successful, it is essential that you feel comfortable with your therapist. A good therapist will ensure you feel safe and secure during your session. They will also help guide you into a state of relaxation. It is important to remember that you are in control at all times during the session and can come out of hypnosis at any time.

How to find a qualified hypnotherapist to help you stop biting your nails?

It's important to consult with a certified psychotherapist with lots of experience helping people achieve similar goals. Not all therapists are created equal, and working with someone with proven expertise in your area will dramatically increase the chances of success. 

If you have been considering hypnosis, I hope this blog post has helped to give you an idea of how hypnosis can help with nail biting. Remember that everyone experiences hypnosis differently, but you can generally expect to feel more relaxed both during and after the session. If you have any further questions or would like to book a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact me.