Get thin, retrain your brain
This week TLC premieres a new program with a big promise:
"I Can Make You Thin," starring British hypnotherapist Paul McKenna.
TLC hasn't spent a lot of time promoting the five-part series (which starts this Sunday, March 16 at 9 p.m.) But McKenna's shtick is that he can change your life by reprogramming your brain.
Now before you start rolling your eyes, I have actually been hypnotized to help me lose weight.
I did it a couple of years ago for a newspaper story. It was actually a night school class run by this elderly woman. She had this fascinating, high-pitched voice that she used to gently lull us into a hypnotized state. Then she spent about 30 minutes "suggesting" to us that we would eat no snacks and exercise more often.
I was completely skeptical going in. I didn't even think she would be able to hypnotize me. I was wrong. Although I didn't go "under" as deeply as some people in the class -- some folks didn't even remember what she said -- I definitely felt like I could not open my eyes.
And -- surprise, surprise -- I found myself very easily taking to her suggestions. I quickly dropped my soda and snack habits. But the best part was the relaxation. Hypnosis is better than a massage for easing tense muscles.
Well, we'll have to see what McKenna is all about later this week. Until then, you can check out his promo online. Or see his website to let him hypnotize you with his "trance" download.