Clinical Hypnotherapy and PsychotherapyI have just completed the Virtual Gastric Band training program which was pioneered by Sheila Grainger from Yorkshire in the UK. I have to say that I tossed up whether to go or not but was thoroughly inspired by Sheila’s energy, passion and willingness to share her knowledge. I am really excited to offer The Virtual Gastric Band Program at Brisbane Natural Health’s clinic in Milton and at MindOverMatter’s clinic in Brookfield.

So what is all the hype about the Virtual Gastric Band Program? Well firstly it’s helping so many people around the world lose weight and the overall concept is actually so simple. Eat less, exercise more and you will lose weight. We all know that diets don’t work, they leave you feeling deprived, hungry and all you do is constantly focus your attention on food. Sure you can lose weight initially but the long terms statistics are not favourable, in fact more than 70% fail.

How the Virtual Gastric Band Program Started?

After reading an article about a group in Spain who were experimenting with hypnosis and Gastric Bands, Sheila decided to conduct a trial to see how effective it could be. She managed to find 25 volunteers to take part of different shapes, sizes, gender and ages. The study was done in a group setting and the results monitored weekly. She found that after 3 weeks the total group had lost nearly 90kg and 24 out of the 25 had significantly changes their eating habits. Sheila knew she was on to something. She conducted a further trial with very similar results and The University of Hull has almost completed a third trial with results due out soon. The UK press, TV and Radio media have shown an ongoing interest in Sheila’s work and it is unusual if a month goes past where she is not quoted in the newspaper or appears or TV or radio.

So what makes this different and why is it so successful? It is simply about convincing your subconscious mind that your body has been fitted with a virtual gastric band and therefore you can only eat smaller amount of food. The suggestions used, convinces the brain that the stomach is full after eating a small amount of food and the client has no desire for more food. Because this is not a diet you don’t go through the cravings, hunger pains or obsessing about food. It effectively harnesses the power that every individual holds within them to make changes in their lives.

The question I am asked all the time is how much overweight do I need to be before I can take part in the Program. Well the good news is anyone who has 5 kg or more can participate. The average weight loss in the first week is between 2.5 and 3kg and thereafter .5 to 1kg per week. More information about the program is available here.