by Emma Callaghan

BART Simpson echoed my sentiments on smoking when he said: "I don't know why I did it, I don't know why I enjoyed it and I don't know why I'll do it again."

Sixty-nine per cent of us want to give it up - apparently - but more disturbing is recent research that shows women smoking just three cigarettes a day, can double their risk of heart disease.

The New Statesman archive showing the largest scientific comparison of ways of kicking the habit maintains that hypnosis is the most effective - willpower, it turns out counts for very little.

With no reason not to, I set off to Claughton Medical Centre where I met qualified hypnotherapist, Peter Walsh. He learned the art of hypnosis at 13 and now teaches hypnotherapy at Mossley Hill Hospital in Liverpool as well as running a private practice Wirral wide.

Peter recommends three sessions on consecutive days followed by a forth reinforcement session in a couple of months. The method, devised by Harold B. Crasilneck - a clinical professor of psychiatry and anaesthesiology - has an 82 per cent success rate.

After many questions, I took to the couch and Peter began to talk me down into a state of deep relaxation. The experience is utterly devoid of any weirdness and I was aware at all times. It's simple - once deeply relaxed, Peter recites positive messages calmly informing my subconscious mind that I am finished with the weed forever. Guided through lush gardens to a tranquil beach against the backdrop of a soothing melody.....I no longer cared if this helped me give up smoking - it was heaven.

The result was that for the 24 hours that followed not smoking was almost easy - I had no desire to smoke whatsoever, I thought about it but my body definitely didn't crave it. The habit factor rated more difficult. In places and at times that I usually smoked, I felt robbed but saintly. Peter suggested that a sip of water will respond duly to that empty signal sent out by the brain.

The second and third visits were well timed for reinforcement purposes and I have not had a cigarette so far. The sessions were positively pleasurable and the feeling of serenity experienced afterwards, I would not trade.

Long term result - watch this space!

You can book sessions at the Claughton Medical Centre or a home visit. The number is 608 0334 or 07774453780.