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Holy Moly! I had to work my mental health rebalancing tools yesterday big time. Somebody told me that my feelings don’t matter, that they are invalid, that I’m plain wrong. They said “Ali, when I was in early recovery, I was taught to place facts over feelings”. For context, I do not believe this was said in a learning capacity. So when I hung up the phone after thanking this person for their call, I burst into tears. I’m sure my caller wasn’t particularly happy about the conversation either – but that’s an assumption (an idea for another post perhaps). I then fed my floofs and watched the start of the V8’s. I used my wellbeing tools – a lot of them. I reminded myself of the following combination of facts and feelings: I stared at a dot to clear and reset my mindset – there’s another post about how to do this. I do matter. My feelings are valid regardless of anyone else’s opinion. There are 8.2 billion people on this planet and not everyone likes or agrees or will listen to me. I managed my feelings by not allowing anger to set in, because I’m the one who creates the meaning – no-one else. People listen but don’t hear and that’s not in my control. I rang my friend who I was supposed to go over for dinner with and told her I needed to just stay home and curl up on the couch. She is a wise and loving friend and she reminded me of WISE-MIND, which is taught in a mental wellbeing context (another post idea). That feelings and emotions are valid, as much as facts and logic. Phew! My work assisting people with their feelings are not in fact invalid! I watched the news about […]

Imagine yourself at the start line, be it for a race or a pivotal business meeting. Feel that electrifying mix of excitement and anxiety. Your heart races, palms sweat, and the voice in your head begins its relentless chatter. So what if I told you that the most critical factor determining the outcome of that moment isn’t just your skill or preparation, but your belief in yourself to calm the noise? Time to consider the world of self-belief, where your potential to perform at your peak lies waiting to be unlocked. In today’s fast-paced world, whether you’re an athlete sprinting for gold, a coach rallying your team, or a business executive striving for success, a peak mindset can be your greatest ally. I’m Ali Burns, based in East Auckland, New Zealand and I’m all about assisting you to harness that self-belief to skyrocket your performance. A few fundamental principles Self-belief fuels performance: Your mindset shapes your beliefs, your behaviours, your actions, your reality. Growth mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset (the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work) is crucial for progress. The power of positive thinking: A positive outlook can transform even the most challenging situations into opportunities for growth. Mindset shifts: Small changes in how you think can lead to significant improvements in your results, both in sport and business. These small changes compound, just like interest! Seek expert help: Utilising services such as sports hypnotherapy can accelerate your journey to peak performance. So what makes self-belief a game changer? Let’s dive a bit deeper into what makes self-belief such a powerful player in all parts of life. A study conducted by the University of Auckland found that people who possess high levels of self-belief are more likely to achieve their goals and perform better

In the world of sports, physical training often takes the spotlight, but what about the mental game? For many athletes in Auckland and across New Zealand, the answer to unlocking peak performance lies in sports hypnosis. This powerful tool is gaining recognition for its ability to enhance focus, reduce anxiety, and help athletes achieve their goals. But does it really work? Let’s explore how sports hypnotherapy can make a difference and hear from some local experiences. What Is Sports Hypnosis? Sports hypnosis is a specialised form of hypnotherapy that focuses on improving athletic performance by addressing the mental aspects of competition. It involves guiding athletes into a deeply relaxed state where their subconscious mind becomes more receptive to positive suggestions. This allows them to overcome mental blocks, enhance focus, and visualise success. As Ali Burns, owner of Freedom Therapy and Coaching in Howick, explains: “Sports hypnosis is about helping athletes tap into their full potential by rewiring limiting beliefs and building mental resilience. It’s not just for elite athletes—it’s for anyone who wants to perform at their best.” How Does Sports Hypnosis Work? The process typically involves several key steps: Relaxation and Focus: The athlete is guided into a hypnotic state where they feel calm and focused. Identifying Barriers: Through hypnotherapy, underlying issues like performance anxiety or self-doubt are uncovered. Rewiring the Mind: Positive suggestions are introduced to replace negative thought patterns. Mental Rehearsal: Athletes visualise themselves succeeding in their sport, creating a mental blueprint for success, a peak performance state. Ali uses proven techniques like Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT®) and Athletes Secret Weapon, at her practice in Howick to deliver fast and lasting results. She has worked with clients from Auckland and beyond, supporting them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.   The Benefits of Sports Hypnosis for

In today’s hyper-competitive business landscape, maintaining a competitive edge requires more than just skills and experience. It demands peak performance, resilience, and the ability to consistently operate at your best. As a driven professional in Howick, you understand the pressures of leadership, decision-making, and the constant pursuit of excellence. But what if you could tap into a hidden reservoir of potential to enhance your performance and overcome the challenges that hold you back? At Freedom Therapy and Coaching, I offer High Performance Hypnotherapy, a cutting-edge approach to unlocking your executive potential and achieving lasting success in all aspects of your life. Situated in Howick, my tailored programs are designed to address the unique needs of busy professionals like you. The Power of High Performance Hypnotherapy High Performance Hypnotherapy and Coaching aren’t just about results; it’s a strategic tool to retrain your brain, where limiting beliefs and ingrained patterns reside. By accessing this powerful part of your mind, I can assist you: Sharpen Focus and Concentration: In a world of constant distractions, maintaining focus is critical. Hypnotherapy helps you filter out the noise and stay laser-focused on your goals. Boost Confidence and Self-Belief: Imposter syndrome and self-doubt can undermine even the most talented leaders. Hypnotherapy helps you build unshakeable confidence and believe in your capabilities. Strengthen Motivation and Drive: Re-ignite your passion and drive to achieve your goals. Overcome procrastination and stay motivated even in the face of adversity. Master Stress and Anxiety: High-pressure situations are inevitable in the business world. Hypnotherapy and Coaching equip you with the tools to manage stress, reduce anxiety, and make clear-headed decisions. Eliminate Limiting Beliefs: Identify and dismantle the negative thoughts and beliefs that are holding you back from achieving your full potential. Enhance Decision-Making: Make confident and effective decisions, even under pressure, by accessing

Are you struggling with constant worries and racing thoughts? You’re not alone. Many Howick residents grapple with overthinking and anxiety, but there’s hope right here in our beautiful coastal community. Let’s explore some effective ways to calm your mind and rediscover joy, all while taking advantage of the natural beauty and local resources Howick has to offer. Embrace Nature’s Therapy Howick’s stunning beaches and scenic walkways offer a perfect escape from the chaos of your thoughts. Taking a leisurely stroll along Howick Beach or Cockle Bay can work wonders for your mental state. The rhythmic sound of waves and the feel of sand beneath your feet can help ground you in the present moment, easing anxiety and reducing overthinking. For a more immersive nature experience, consider exploring the Mangemangeroa Valley Walkway—this beautiful trail winds through native bush, offering a peaceful retreat from daily stressors. The act of walking itself can be meditative, helping to clear your mind and reduce anxiety symptoms. Mindfulness in Local Settings Practising mindfulness is a powerful tool for combating overthinking and anxiety. Howick provides numerous serene locations perfect for mindfulness exercises. The tranquil gardens of Ormiston House offer an ideal setting for a mindful moment. Take a seat on a bench, close your eyes, and focus on your breath while listening to the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. Another excellent spot for mindfulness practice is Howick Historical Village. The peaceful atmosphere of this living museum can transport you to a simpler time, helping you disconnect from modern worries and find calm in the present moment. Community Connection Isolation often fuels overthinking and anxiety. Fortunately, Howick boasts a vibrant community with plenty of opportunities for connection. The Howick Village Market, held every Saturday, is more than just a place to shop – it’s a chance to engage