Techniques that are fun ~ NLP Practitioner Story ~ The Swish

Now that we have fully got to grips with some of the basics of NLP; such as the Modalities and the Submodalities we can have a look at a few fun techniques for you to try at home for fun. However, if you are interested in learning NLP it is advised to use a professional practitioner or take a NLP course; more information on that can be found here.

swish techniques

The Swish Techniques

Furthermore, the swish technique is a visual method of resolving negative thought patterns and therefore works very well using visual modality. For a fuller understanding of working with the Swish have a look at the visual submodality too.

The preliminary stage of identifying triggers concerned with the issue to be resolved, is extremely important. Moreover, this is why working with a NLP practitioner to guide you could save a lot of time and effort.

First you need to think of an unwanted behavior that you need to change.

The Swish technique is a visualizing exercise so we need to get really specific in order to discover the exact trigger that sets off the procrastinating behaviour. So putting off things is too general, we need to identify a specific feeling and moment that leads you to NOT do the desired behaviour.

Here is how the Swish techniques work

You identify the exact moment. You thought that is stopping you doing the positive behavior that you desire, in this case going to a dance class. It could just as likely be putting off going to the gym or doing work that really needs to be done.

Create the image in your mind of the trigger that sets off the procrastinating thoughts. In the case above, it is an image of sitting on the sofa with a good film eating a bag of popcorn. This behavior would be fine by the way; if Gretchen did not feel guilt, regret or bad about NOT doing the dance class.

Now, you need to think of an image of yourself feeling great. This is totally up to you. It’s fun to make up; so think of yourself at your absolute best. Try and choose a picture that pleases and excites you.

Right here we go for some real practical MAGIC

Think of the first image again, the one that triggers the procrastinating behaviour. So for Gretchen it’s the image of her on the settee, big bag of popcorn and a good film on the television. Think of something totally different.

Now think of your new image, For example, looking and feeling great after the dance class. Place a small picture of this over the original image and then blow it up. Alter the submodalities, that is turn up the brightness; make the image big, give it a shining golden border ; whatever works for you… Then literally swap or Swish the two images.

Repeat this swapping or swishing mental exercise as often as necessary. The actual swish or exchange of images is actually done very quickly. The swish pattern has succeeded when you think of the trigger and the desired image is the one that pops to mind

The Swish techniques is ideal for working with unpleasant feelings. It can be used with past, present and future situations. Look at the example above; and try it on other situations in your life. It is very effective.

I’m a multi-tasking procrastinator. I can put off all kinds of things all at once.

Have a look here for some more fun techniques. These techniques are given as a little taster for NLP. But for best results it is recommended to work with a trained practitioner. For more information on courses and NLP practitioners, please click here. We also have some useful links and readings.