Advanced Spiritual Hypnosis

I am writing this article after the final day of conducting a three-day "Advanced Spiritual Hypnosis Specialty Certification" at the International Hypnosis Federation (IHF) Conference in San Pedro, CA, Aug. 1-3. My co-trainers have been Shelly Stockwell and James Wanless.

Shelly is the IHF President, a Ph.D., hypnotherapist and the author of 12 books on hypnosis. Her latest is a huge volume titled "Hypnosis Dictionary and Scripts." James holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Columbia University, is the creator of the "Voyager Tarot Cards" and the author of six books. His latest is "Intuition @ Work."

Although Shelly had a plan upon embarking upon the seminar, James and I just showed up ready to dance with the energy. Even the format of this gathering was unlike anything I have ever experienced. As trainers, the three of us sat upon barstools at the head of the class and remained there throughout each day -- all interacting in response to each other's teachings. The result was a free-flowing exchange in which each of us provided supportive content and processes.

Those attending were primarily hypnotherapists in private practice.

In the end, I realize I learned as much as any of those attending the course. And I have never laughed so much in my life. My hypnosis practice has always been spiritually based, but over the past couple years the work has evolved into techniques and ways of processing clients that has taken me into new spiritual realms. Shelly also works
with spirit in ways I had never witnessed before. While James is not a hypnotist, he uses Symbolic Therapy, archetypes and imagery to tap the subconscious mind for transformation, insight and self-discovery.

If a theme emerged out of the training, it was to "trust your intuition" and the critical importance of "bringing up your energy." We all need to find the energy for want we want to do -- to experience positive inspiration and find ways to maintain it. This can be easier said than done, but it is the goal if you want to manifest the life you want to live.

In looking at what I've taken away from the training, I'm impressed with some of Shelly's calming techniques to work with people in crisis. At the same time she plays with words, continually creating a fun new language. The most used word this weekend was "co-inky-dinky" (for a coincidence). I'm stuck on it. James's way of processing with Tarot has added a new dimension to my own reading of the cards. And some of his stats in regard to differences between men and women will certainly remain with me. (Women speak about 6000 words a day, while men speak about 2000 words a day. Women communicate just to communicate (commune), while men communicate to get something.)

On the opening day of the conference, author John Gray was the luncheon speaker. We sat together over the meal, and I enjoyed his sharing as well. His next book will be titled "Mars and Venus Collide." He claims that one of the key reasons the genders have trouble communicating and getting along is bio-chemical. And after an hour presentation, he had me convinced. John's words regarding the importance of a woman saying she is hungry will remain with me forever. This is a "Code Blue Alert Crisis," he says. Do not ignore it. Focus upon getting her food immediately. I cannot give you all the bio-chemical reasons, but you'll be sad if you don't and glad if you do.