I’m writing this from a plane.
I never thought I’d write those words.
Six months ago, when I flew from California to NYC after Christmas, I threw up before takeoff.
It was during our taxi away from the jetway, the seat-belt light brightly illuminated.
I was 9 at the time.
But nothing workedthe vodka left me drunk and anxious; the drugs, incoherent and anxious.
I was hypnotized not because I thought it would work but because I was desperate.
And then I metGrace Smith.
Grace is a petite redhead whose soft voice creates an instant atmosphere of ease.
I always felt present, aware, and in control, and I always remembered everything after.
But I wasn’t sure they were workingas my flight grew nearer, I had more restless nights.
And then the day of my flight came.
But the nausea never came.
My heart continued to beat slowly, steadily.
My palms stayed dry, and my breath came in long, even inhales and exhales.
As we rolled down the runway to take off, I waited.
When the tray would shake, the plane would move with it, always safely secured in its position.
I feel, quite simply, like I’m flying.
Want to try hypnosis yourself?
Grace madethis recordingfree for mbg readers.
