I was recently asked by a friend for advice for getting through a dental appointment when I realized I had not addressed this in my blog. So, let's move away from meditation for the moment and get back to self hypnosis for a problem with which many of us deal.
Think about a special place, a place that is peaceful and relaxing to you. Decide where you want to go before practicing this technique. Sit comfortably with your eyes closed and your limbs uncrossed. Take several deep breaths, exhaling slowly. A slow exhalation is important to attain maximum relaxation and to avoid hyperventilation. You can then return to your usual rhythmic breathing. Imagine your special place. See the sights and colors as vividly as you can. Hear the sounds. Experience the feelings, both tactile and emotional. As discussed in a previous entry, one sense will probably be dominant so emphasize that sense in your imagery. Now count slowly from 50 - 1. Once you've reached the count of 1, count 1-5 and open your eyes. Practice this daily to develop a conditioned response to ensure that when you use it in the dentist's chair it will work quickly and well.
When you are in the dentist's chair, close your eyes and take several deep breaths with slow exhalations. You can then return to your usual breathing, but can take other deep breaths any time you need to during the procedure. Imagine your special place and count from 50-1. You will be used to doing this and it should be easy and effective. However, if it is a particularly uncomfortable procedure and you have difficulty with the imagery, you can always count. The deep breaths and counting will still work well for you. Just make sure you count slowly as it will help keep you calm. Once you reach the count of 1 simply go back to 50 and continue until the procedure is over.
I've used this technique with many clients and have used it myself with great success.
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