Subliminal Messages
Subliminal messages are pictures or words which are not recognized by the conscious mind, but instead recorded in the subconscious. These messages can be used for self improvement, but have been used, and were actually developed as a marketing ploy. Audio and visual subliminal messages are thought by many to be more powerful than those that are picked up by the conscious thought process. The first public knowledge of these types of messages were discovered when a New Jersey theater inserted the messages during a showing of The Picnic in 1957. Every 5 seconds, for 1/3000th of a second, the message Drink Coca Cola and Eat Popcorn was flashed across Kim Novakís face. Incredibly, popcorn and coca cola sales increased sharply as a result. Although the viewing audience had no idea they were seeing this message, it was still recorded subconsciously (hypnotically) into their minds. When the marketing ploy was exposed, there was a public outcry.
Self help purposes
Subliminal messages are now used primarily for self help purposes. Whether or not it works depends on who is asked. Many psychologists do not believe it does, but many who have tried the self help practice swear that it does. For many who believe in what is now referred to as subliminal perception, it has the power to influence thoughts, feelings and actions, and it is all done below the level of consciousness. For instance, a message can be injected into an audio tape, and although it is heard by the listener, it does not register along with the other words spoken. The brain then files that information deeper into the mind. One example of an audio message could be an audio book with the subliminal message of ìI am a valuable and productive person.
These messages can prove to be very beneficial in many instances. Those who want to quit smoking lose weight, or gain confidence may be able to obtain that extra push to succeed by using subliminal messages. It has worked for thousands of people. It has been compared to hypnosis in that post hypnotic suggestions have been very successful in self help efforts. Since hypnosis and subliminal messages both work on the subconscious mind, they work on the same premise and can provide equally successful results. The science is sound, however as noted, not all professionals agree that it does indeed work.
For those wishing to improve their lives in some way, subliminal messages may be the answer. It certainly is worth a try and a lot less expensive than many of the traditional methods. Some websites and books will offer a free sample of the technique, which should only be used with discretion. When other efforts have failed for whatever reason, subliminal messages may be the key to success. It is one of the less invasive forms when it comes to things such as smoking cessation. If a technique can improve the performance or lifestyle of an individual, is it not worth a try? With subliminal messages, there is everything to gain, and little to lose.
