SWIHA Blog

What Is Hypnosis?

If you’ve ever been curious about hypnosis and how it works, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve seen it in movies or on stage and wondered if it’s all just smoke and mirrors. The truth is that hypnosis is a fascinating science-backed tool that helps people make real changes in their lives.

What is Success?

Is everyone chasing success? It seems like everywhere we turn, someone is talking about what it means to be successful. Have we ever paused to wonder what true success really is? Is it crossing the finish line or is it the journey itself? For many, success has been drilled into us as the result, the shiny trophy, or the big promotion. That's what we've been taught for generations. However, what if real success lies in the relentless effort we put forth?

In today’s world, more people than ever are seeking alternative and holistic approaches to health and well-being. As the demand for holistic wellness services continues to grow, so does the need for skilled practitioners who are experts in their fields and also capable of running successful businesses. At the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), we believe in empowering individuals to step into their purpose, share their healing gifts, and build sustainable, thriving businesses in the holistic wellness industry.

Before attending the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), Natalie Bowker felt called to help others yet wasn’t sure how. The Hypnotherapy program gave her the skills to guide clients which also led her on her own healing journey. Seeing profound transformations within her clients confirmed she was on the right path. Now, as the founder of Space Between Wellness LLC, she empowers others through hypnotherapy and coaching, integrating the lessons learned at SWIHA into her practice and personal life.

Why Deep Breathing Helps

Deep breathing is one of the greatest things we can do for ourselves in pursuit of good mental health. This time-honored practice of using our own bodies and breath to self-regulate works wonders to reduce stress and anxiety and to engage the parasympathetic nervous system. Breath work in all forms is a way we can hit an internal reset button. It is our ability to stop and reframe. It allows us to slow down for just a moment to get our thoughts in order.

St. Patrick’s Day reminds us that spring is just around the corner, inviting us to tap into the energy of renewal and transformation. This season of rebirth encourages us to shed what no longer serves us, just as nature awakens from its winter slumber. It's a time for both the earth and our bodies to rejuvenate, align with new intentions, and embrace growth. Spring offers a fresh start, an opportunity to focus on vitality, and to nourish ourselves with vibrant, nutrient-dense foods that fuel both body and mind.

The Definition of Emotional Intelligence
Everyone seems to agree that your intelligence quotient, your IQ, is an important measure of cognitive ability. It is often used as a way to measure your potential for success on job applications, college applications, and in social settings. This leaves me wondering what emotional intelligence is and why it isn’t held in our society with the same level of relevance and validity as IQ. According to a survey done by the World Economic Forum, called The Future of Jobs Report, only 35% of respondents reported that they knew about emotional intelligence (referred to as EQ).

Have you ever thought about where traditions come from, and what makes an event a tradition? Have you thought about changes you have experienced, and how those changes transform from tradition into ritual? These are important markers on the road called life. We all have traditions, whether they are carried from generation to generation or are self-created, and we have all experienced life-transforming changes that we choose to highlight with tradition and ritual.

Many of us will reach certain points in our lives where we feel “stuck.” Whether it's uncertainty about the future, difficulty overcoming obstacles, or a longing for deeper fulfillment, navigating life’s challenges alone can feel overwhelming. That’s where Life Coaches come in.

At the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), we offer a comprehensive 100-hour Certificate of Excellence in Life Coaching, designed to equip you with the skills, tools, and knowledge to guide others through transformation. Rooted in the 12 Guiding Principles of Transformation, our program empowers aspiring coaches to support clients in clarifying their goals, overcoming barriers, and taking meaningful steps toward the life they desire. This certificate is offered both in person and online, providing flexibility for students.

The Role of an End-of-Life Doula

The role of an end-of-life doula or death doula is one that many people might not fully understand. It’s a relatively new modern profession yet one that is deeply rooted in ancient practices of caring for the dying. A death doula provides nonmedical support and comfort to individuals who are nearing the end of their lives. This support can be emotional, spiritual, and practical, helping both the dying person and their loved ones navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of dying.