Neil Cox Hypnotherapy, Cornwall

Category: Being a hypnotherapist

The behind the scenes view of being a hypnotherapist in today’s modern world.

  • What Is a Shakti Mat and Why Does Everyone Talk About It?

    What Is a Shakti Mat and Why Does Everyone Talk About It?

    It’s not often I come across a wellbeing tool that makes me laugh, wince, breathe deeply, and ultimately feel better — but the Shakti Mat has done all that and more.

    As a hypnotherapist, I’m naturally interested in tools that engage both the body and the mind — and the Shakti Mat, with its sharp little spikes and deceptively simple design, is one of those rare tools that does exactly that. It’s become a regular part of my personal wellbeing routine.

    Let me show you how it works, why it works, and how it complements what I already do in my practice.

    What Is the Shakti Mat?

    The Shakti Mat is an acupressure mat — a fabric mat embedded with thousands of tiny spikes arranged in circular clusters. Inspired by traditional Indian bed-of-nails practices, it’s designed to stimulate pressure points across the body, helping to:

    • Relieve tension and pain
    • Improve circulation
    • Encourage relaxation
    • Release endorphins

    Yes, it looks a bit intimidating. And yes — it can feel intense at first. But that’s all part of its magic.

    My First Experience — The Shakti Mat Challenge

    I’ll be honest — my first experience with the Shakti Mat was a bit… dramatic. It’s not exactly like lying on a fluffy rug. But that’s the point. It’s meant to stimulate, challenge, and awaken your body — and in my case, it really did.

    Here’s a quick Short I made when I first tried standing on it. Let’s call it the Shakti Mat Challenge:

    Yes, it stings a bit. But after the initial shock — and some less dramatic sessions lying down — I noticed deeper breathing, muscle relaxation, and an almost meditative calm. Now it’s part of my routine for winding down and for those moments when I need a reset. The intensity is what makes it effective.

    How It Works on the Body (and Brain)

    The spikes create controlled, shallow pressure on the skin, which your body interprets as a mild, manageable stressor. In response:

    • Your brain releases endorphins (natural feel-good chemicals)
    • Blood flow increases to the stimulated areas
    • The parasympathetic nervous system is activated — this is your body’s natural rest-and-digest state

    In other words, you get a natural high, a sense of calm, and a physiological signal that says: You’re safe now.

    If you’ve ever had a massage that hurt just the right amount — that’s the zone the Shakti Mat sits in.

    The Shakti Torus Rings: Another Favourite in My Toolkit

    In addition to the mat, I’ve recently started using the new Shakti Torus Rings — and they’re another surprisingly powerful tool. They’re small, portable, and designed for use on your fingers. The stimulation is subtle but focused, and I’ve found it brilliant for calming the nervous system and improving focus, especially during screen-heavy days.

    Here’s a quick YouTube Short I made to show you how they work:

    Like the Shakti Mat, the Torus Rings help you reset — especially if you struggle with overthinking or sensory overload. They’re great fidget-friendly stress relievers that don’t look or feel like a gimmick.

    Whether I’m using the mat to wind down or the Torus Rings to focus between clients, these small rituals make a big difference. They complement the effects of hypnotherapy beautifully — calming the mind, grounding the body, and helping you reconnect with your breath and self-awareness.

    The Link to Hypnotherapy

    Hypnotherapy works by helping the mind shift into a focused, receptive state — often tapping into the parasympathetic nervous system. That’s the same system the Shakti Mat engages.

    By using both together, you create a loop of reinforcement:

    • The Shakti Mat helps drop you into a calm, aware state
    • Hypnotherapy deepens and harnesses that state for personal change
    • The Torus Rings add a sensory grounding tool for during or after sessions

    They’re not substitutes — but they’re brilliant companions.

    And if you already use self-hypnosis or listen to hypnotherapy audio tracks, try combining them with a session on the mat — the synergy is powerful.

    Try It for Yourself — With a Discount

    I’m an affiliate for Shakti because I genuinely believe in what they’re doing. If you’re curious to try the mat or any of their products for yourself, you can use my affiliate link below to get a discount:

    https://www.shaktimat.co.uk/neilcoxhypnotherapy or just use discount code NEILRELAX at checkout.

    You’ll be supporting your own wellbeing and supporting my work at Neil Cox Hypnotherapy — so thank you.

    (Affiliate link – you get a better price, and it supports my work too.)

    Final Thoughts

    The Shakti Mat or their other products aren’t for everyone. But if you’re curious, open-minded, and willing to embrace a little discomfort for a lot of benefit — they might just be your new best friends.

    It’s one of those things you have to feel to understand.

    And if you need help calming your mind, improving your sleep, or changing unhelpful patterns — whether with or without spikes — you know where to find me.

  • The Snoozeband: The Fun Way to Drift Off and Tune In

    The Snoozeband: The Fun Way to Drift Off and Tune In

    Let’s face it: relaxation in today’s world feels like finding a unicorn wearing a party hat. But what if I told you there’s a gadget out there that can make hypnotherapy, sleep, and even your nightly wind-down routine not just effective but… dare I say it… fun? Enter the Snoozeband, a delightfully clever combination of wireless headphones and a soft headband that screams, “Why haven’t you tried me yet?”

    What Exactly Is the Snoozeband?

    Picture this: you’re lying in bed, trying to drift off while wearing earbuds that feel like they’re auditioning for the lead role in Attack of the Ears. Not great, right? Now imagine a soft, comfy headband that doubles as wireless headphones, gently serenading you with your favourite hypnotherapy tracks, calming music, or that one podcast where people whisper about medieval cheese-making (no judgment). That’s the Snoozeband.

    This ingenious little device connects via Bluetooth to your gadgets, so you can stream whatever helps you unwind. And the fabric? Oh, it’s like someone took a cloud, taught it yoga, and turned it into a headband. It’s breathable, soft, and so comfy you might forget you’re wearing it—until the calming sounds start lulling you into bliss.

    Why It’s a Hypnotherapy Superstar

    As someone who guides clients through solution-focused hypnotherapy, I’ve seen the transformative power of relaxation tools. The Snoozeband isn’t just a gadget; it’s like a sidekick to your superpower of unwinding. Here’s how it helps:

    1. Comfort That Wins Awards (If There Were Awards for Comfort): Traditional headphones can pinch, press, or plain old annoy. The Snoozeband? It’s like a hug for your head—but a non-awkward one.
    2. Crystal-Clear Audio: Ever tried listening to hypnotherapy recordings only to be interrupted by the screech of your neighbour’s overenthusiastic parrot? The Snoozeband’s quality sound ensures you’re fully immersed in your session.
    3. Side Sleeper Magic: If you’ve ever tried lying on your side with earbuds, you know it’s a one-way ticket to discomfort-ville. The Snoozeband’s flat speakers mean you can snooze on your side without feeling like you’re lying on a pebble.
    4. Goodbye, Stress; Hello, Calm: Hypnotherapy sessions often involve listening to recordings that help you relax, focus, or sleep better. The Snoozeband turns that process into an indulgence, like treating yourself to an audio spa.
    5. Perfect Travel Buddy: Long-haul flights, noisy train rides, or just avoiding small talk with chatty passengers? The Snoozeband’s got you covered—literally.

    Hypnotherapy Meets the Snoozeband

    Here’s the thing: during hypnotherapy, I provide clients with a tailored audio recording during the first session. It’s designed to reinforce progress and keep you feeling all those good vibes between appointments. Listening to this recording with the Snoozeband feels like levelling up your relaxation game. Many clients tell me they’ve never looked forward to bedtime more (and no, that’s not just because it’s finally quiet). Combine it with my 10 Day Sleep Programme here.

    Snoozeband in the Wild: Real-Life Scenarios

    Let’s get real. Life is messy, loud, and often ridiculous. Here’s how the Snoozeband comes to the rescue in various scenarios:

    • Midnight Battles with Insomnia: You’ve tried counting sheep, but they keep staging an escape. Pop on the Snoozeband with a sleep-focused hypnotherapy track, and suddenly, you’re the shepherd of serenity.
    • Side Sleeper Woes, Be Gone: Sleeping on your side while wearing headphones usually means waking up with a crushed ear or strangled wires. The Snoozeband’s flat speakers let you snooze comfortably—no ear trauma involved.
    • Zen on the Go: Stuck in traffic? On a crowded train? Plug into a relaxing playlist or hypnotherapy session, and you’ll feel like you’re floating above the chaos (figuratively, of course).
    • Escape the Snorer’s Symphony: Sharing a bed with a partner whose snores rival a jackhammer? The Snoozeband lets you tune into calming audio instead of, well, that.
    • Bedtime Just Got Better: Building a calming bedtime routine can work wonders for your sleep. The Snoozeband is like the cherry on top of your relaxation sundae, helping you drift off to dreamland effortlessly.

    Science Meets Snoozing: Why It Works

    Listening to soothing sounds or hypnotherapy recordings taps into your brain’s alpha wave state—the sweet spot for relaxation and focus. Science even says it can lower cortisol levels (bye, stress!) and promote better sleep. The Snoozeband, with its comfy design and quality sound, helps you get there faster, making relaxation not just achievable but downright enjoyable.

    For side sleepers, this is revolutionary. No more wrestling with awkward headphones or lying perfectly still to avoid ear pain. The Snoozeband’s flat speaker design is like a love letter to side sleepers everywhere, making it a game-changer for your bedtime routine.

    What People Are Saying (Hint: They Love It)

    Don’t just take my word for it—check out these real-life testimonials:

    • “The Snoozeband has saved my ears and my sleep. I’m a side sleeper, and this is the first device I’ve found that doesn’t leave me feeling like I’ve been in a wrestling match with my headphones.”
    • “I’ve used the Snoozeband on planes, trains, and my sofa. It’s like a portable bubble of calm in an otherwise chaotic world.”
    • “Listening to hypnotherapy recordings with the Snoozeband has become my favourite part of the day. It’s like a brain massage—highly recommend!”
    • “Finally, a device that doesn’t make me choose between comfort and sound quality. The Snoozeband is a win-win.”

    Final Thoughts (and a Cheeky Recommendation)

    While I’m not here to push products, I will share tools that genuinely make life better. If the Snoozeband sounds like something you’d love, you can check it out using my affiliate Snoozeband link. No pressure, just putting it out there for anyone who’s ready to elevate their relaxation game (Affiliate Link – I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase)

    SnoozeBand™ – Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

    In the meantime, remember: relaxation doesn’t have to be serious business. Whether it’s hypnotherapy, bedtime rituals, or simply tuning out the world for a bit, tools like the Snoozeband help you find your calm—with a side of fun.

    Now, if you’ll excuse me, my Snoozeband and I have a very important date with some chill-out music and a comfy pillow.

  • Relocating to Hayle and offering in-person therapy

    Relocating to Hayle and offering in-person therapy

    I am excited to announce that I will be relocating my hypnotherapy practice to Hayle and offering face-to-face sessions in addition to my online therapy services when I’m settled in.

    They weren’t wrong when they said house moving can be one of the most stressful periods of your life!

    ✴︎ new digs

    —08.2023

    I have been in business in Cornwall for almost 10 years, and I have had the pleasure of helping many people overcome a variety of challenges, including anxiety, stress, weight loss, and smoking cessation. I am confident that the move to Hayle will allow me to reach more people and help them achieve their goals.

    Hayle is a growing town with a lot to offer, both in terms of business opportunities and quality of life. I am particularly drawn to the town’s beauty and charm, and I am looking forward to becoming a part of the community.

    I believe that for some people face-to-face therapy can be more effective than online therapy. For example, people who are struggling with social anxiety may find it easier to open up in a face-to-face setting. Additionally, face-to-face sessions can help to build rapport between the therapist and the client, which is important for the success of therapy.

    I am excited about this new chapter in my business, and I look forward to helping more people in Hayle and beyond.

    Why I am relocating to Hayle

    There are a few reasons why I am relocating my business to Hayle. First, I believe that Hayle is a great place to do business. The town is growing, and there is a lot of support for businesses in the area. Second, I am drawn to Hayle’s beauty and charm. The town is located on the coast, and there are many beautiful beaches and natural areas nearby. I am looking forward to being a part of the Hayle community and enjoying all that the town has to offer.

    Room for change

    The new therapy room has been in progress since we moved to Hayle.

    Finding the right chair has been quite a quest! But now you have the option of a recliner chair or the traditional therapy bench/couch. Both have their own advantages, and I know which one I’d prefer 🙂

    recliner therapy chair

    New therapy room chair

    chair hypnotherapy

    View from your chair

    The benefits of offering face-to-face sessions

    I believe that face-to-face therapy can be even more effective than online therapy for some people. Here are a few of the benefits of offering face-to-face sessions:

    Build rapport: Face-to-face sessions can help to build rapport between the therapist and the client. This is important for the success of therapy, as the client needs to feel comfortable and trusting with the therapist.

    Provide a sense of community: Face-to-face sessions can provide the client with a sense of community. This can be especially helpful for people who are struggling with isolation or loneliness.

    Address specific challenges: Face-to-face sessions can be more effective for addressing specific challenges, such as social anxiety or phobias.

  • How to find a Good Hypnotherapist

    Introduction

    Are you struggling with mental health issues and considering hypnotherapy? If you’re based in Cornwall, you’re in luck! There are many reputable hypnotherapists in the area who can help you on your journey towards better mental health. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the right hypnotherapist for you. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and find a good hypnotherapist in Cornwall.

    Understanding Hypnotherapy

    Before diving into the process of finding a hypnotherapist, it’s important to have a basic understanding of hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that uses hypnosis to induce a state of relaxation and heightened suggestibility. It can be used to treat a wide range of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to phobias and addiction.

    Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, in particular, is a popular form of hypnotherapy that focuses on creating positive change in the present and future rather than dwelling on the past. However, most solution focused hypnotherapists will not induce a traditional trance state, being only a very light state of relaxation. Some clients can feel as if this is not what they were expecting.

    Having trained in this technique myself, I naturally have alternative methods which do give you that experience of a deeper trance state. It’s a bit like going shopping and expecting the same coat to fit not just yourself, but everyone else in your family. One size definitely doesn’t fit all!

    Internet searching

    No doubt your main point of call is Google. Typically you’d search ‘hypnotherapy in Cornwall’ and will likely bring up a list of people who are geographically near you, and even include a handy map showing them too. Google does provide a handy overview from how to contact them, whether they’re open at the moment to showing directions on how to get there.

    Below the local google search, you will find the websites of local hypnotherapists. If they’re properly setup and popular the higher they’ll show up in the results. However, just because they’re on page one doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not worth peeking at the next pages. And more than likely, professional listing sites will naturally be more effective at hitting the top spots for search.

    Below them are the paid for or ‘sponsored’ entries. They are more than likely hypnotherapists who are seeking to get better visibility by paying for their sites to be advertised. From experience they’re usually from outside of your geographical search area.

    Qualifications and Training

    When looking for a hypnotherapist in Cornwall, it’s important to consider their qualifications and training. Make sure that the hypnotherapist is registered with a reputable professional organisation, such as the National Council for Hypnotherapy. Additionally, check their training and credentials to ensure that they have received proper education in hypnotherapy.

    Reviews and Testimonials

    Reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients can be a great way to gauge a hypnotherapist’s effectiveness and professionalism. Look for reviews on the hypnotherapist’s website or social media pages, and don’t be afraid to ask for references or testimonials from previous clients. Positive reviews and recommendations from trusted sources can give you peace of mind and help you feel confident in your choice of hypnotherapist.

    It’s also important to recognise that just because there are registers available online which list out hypnotherapists such as Hypnotherapy Directory or Three Best Rated – they don’t necessarily have any real basis of regulation. They simply act as an easier way of finding local hypnotherapists in a geographical manner. Regulation is always best sought through that therapist’s governing body such as the National Council for Hypnotherapy. This information should be readily available from the therapists website.

    Probably one of the best sources of recommendation come from people who have previously seen the therapist. You’re more likely to find that someone you know has known someone who’s been to a local hypnotherapist.

    Fake reviews.

    The hallmark of any good therapist is the presence of real, sound testimonials from satisfied clients. Considering that my work is of a confidential nature, and unless clients want to share their experience, I don’t. But if you do this where my clients rate and review my work.

    Trust Index Fresha reviews

    But what about the very concerning issue of fake reviews? I know there are many, many ways of people obtaining reviews through paid or other methods. But how do I ensure my reviews are bona fide and can be trusted?

    Well the answer is simple. Clients who leave a review are only offered that opportunity securely from my online booking system after having booked and attended their session. Simple.

    The issue of fake google reviews for medical clinics has been highlighted by Emma Hardy of BBC News.

    Recommendations from Healthcare Professionals

    Another great way to find a good hypnotherapist in Cornwall is to ask for recommendations from healthcare professionals, such as your GP or therapist. They may be able to refer you to a reputable hypnotherapist who has helped their patients in the past. Additionally, if you’re already receiving mental health treatment, your therapist or counsellor may offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment option.

    Professionalism and Communication

    When meeting with a potential hypnotherapist, pay attention to their level of professionalism and communication. They should be respectful, empathetic, and non-judgmental, creating a safe space for you to discuss your mental health concerns. Additionally, they should be transparent about their treatment methods and what to expect during hypnotherapy sessions. Be that online or in a face to face environment.

    In conclusion

    Finding a good hypnotherapist in Cornwall can be a daunting task, but it’s important to take the time to find someone who is reputable, qualified, and experienced. By using the tips and resources mentioned in this article, you can make an informed decision and find a hypnotherapist who can help you achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.

    Remember, it’s essential to have an open mind and a willingness to work on yourself when undergoing hypnotherapy. It’s a collaborative process between the therapist and client, and success depends on both parties’ commitment to the process.

    If you’re struggling with any issues and believe that hypnotherapy may be the right choice for you, take the time to research and find a reputable hypnotherapist in Cornwall. With the right support, guidance, and techniques, hypnotherapy can be a transformative experience that can help you achieve your goals and live a happier, healthier life.

  • Corona virus and how I can help

    Corona virus and how I can help

    In these times of unprecedented change and uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is more important than ever to find ways to restore a sense of normalcy and calm to our lives. As a practitioner of solution-focused hypnotherapy, I believe that now is the perfect time to explore this powerful form of therapy, which can help us to overcome a wide range of issues and challenges.

    With the current situation making it difficult or impossible to meet in person, I am now offering online consultations and sessions via Zoom and Google Meet. This means that you can receive the support and guidance you need from the comfort of your own home, without having to worry about travel or other logistical concerns.

    Although I have had to close my physical office for the time being, I remain committed to providing high-quality care to all of my clients. My initial consultation is still free of charge, as it has always been, and I am also keeping my rates the same despite the current situation. I understand that many people are struggling financially right now, and I want to do my part to ensure that everyone who needs my help can receive it.

    During your initial consultation, we will discuss your specific needs and goals, and I will work with you to develop a customised treatment plan that is tailored to your unique situation. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, or any other issue, I believe that hypnotherapy can be an effective tool for helping you to overcome it.

    In addition to helping you overcome specific issues and challenges, solution-focused hypnotherapy can also have a number of other benefits for your overall health and well-being. Research has shown that hypnotherapy can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, boost immune function, and even lower blood pressure. By working with a skilled hypnotherapist, you can learn how to tap into your own inner resources and access a state of deep relaxation and inner calm, which can have positive effects on your physical, mental, and emotional health.

    Another advantage of online hypnotherapy sessions is that they are highly convenient and accessible. You can participate in a session from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. This means that you can receive the support and guidance you need without having to worry about travel time or costs. In addition, online sessions can be scheduled at times that are most convenient for you, whether that’s early in the morning, late at night, or on weekends.

    If you are new to hypnotherapy, you may be wondering what to expect from a session. During a hypnotherapy session, you will be guided into a state of deep relaxation, which allows you to access your subconscious mind. Your hypnotherapist will then use a variety of techniques, such as guided imagery and positive suggestion, to help you achieve your goals and overcome any obstacles that may be holding you back. You will remain fully aware and in control throughout the session, and you can stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable or unsure.

    At the end of a session, you may feel more relaxed, energised, and focused than you did before. You may also notice a reduction in the symptoms of stress, anxiety, or other issues that you were experiencing. Over time, with continued hypnotherapy sessions, you may find that you are able to make significant progress towards your goals and achieve a greater sense of inner peace, confidence, and well-being.

    In conclusion, if you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, or any other issue, online solution-focused hypnotherapy sessions can offer a highly effective and convenient way to get the help you need. By working with a skilled hypnotherapist, you can learn how to access your own inner resources and achieve a state of deep relaxation and inner calm, which can have positive effects on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Contact me today to schedule your free initial consultation and take the first step towards a happier, healthier you.

  • Unexpected relocation

    Unexpected relocation

    Don’t panic

    It has been a pleasure working from my hypnotherapy practice in Bude, but sometimes a change of scenery is needed so there will be an unexpected relocation! I have come to the decision to relocate my business and will be moving from Bude Business Centre in the next few months. Don’t panic though.

    My diary is still open. I would love to see you for one more time, or even multiple more times. I’m happy to do so given the timeframe (this will be months rather than weeks).

    new year goals

    I’d like to reassure those of you who’ve already booked appointments or made deposits, these will naturally be honoured in full. There’s plenty of time.

    This may have come as a surprise to many of you, but as I’ve always said, change needs to happen, and we shouldn’t deny or work against it. Although I plan to remain practicing within Cornwall, for a great many of you who live within the Bude catchment it will likely be a trip too far for appointments.

    A compromise

    I will endeavour to offer a compromise, and I may be able to meet people half way at a location in mid-Cornwall close to the A30, which may or may not suit you. However, being a therapist who receives clients from either ends of the county and beyond (including internationally), there will be some winners and losers.

    This relocation has been a difficult decision to make, and not one taken lightly. But a number of factors have played a part in making this final decision to relocate. Bude has always been a location ‘out on a limb’ but that does make it unique and special, for which I will always hold within my heart. I have met the most amazing people since moving here, and they’re my clients. So that’s probably you!

    Some personal reasons have come into play, including being closer to ageing parents, which is a real important aspect. But also the imposition of new longer term leases for the room I rent at Bude Business Centre. The powers that be, Cornwall Council, deem it necessary to change what was an excellent ‘incubation hub’ for small businesses into something that will likely be less attractive to new start ups.

    Flexibility

    Flexibility is a quality I like to embody, but there are times when you are faced against an organisation that doesn’t bend like a tree in the wind. And we all know what happens to those! This isn’t sour grapes by any means, but I felt it was right and proper to be open with you about my reasons for relocating. Long term I had ideas and plans to take forward which would simply not work under the new proposed lease terms here, and I’m genuinely sorry. 

    I’m happy to field questions or concerns regarding the relocation and I will update you as and when. If you’d like to book that appointment – I’d recommend doing so sooner rather than later. Appointments are updated live using my online booking system here