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Cover of The Practice of Autosuggestion

The Practice of Autosuggestion

Written by C. Harry (Cyrus Harry) Brooks

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Coué, Emile, 1857-1926Mental suggestion

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About this book

"The Practice of Autosuggestion" by C. Harry Brooks is a self-help guide written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the psychological techniques of autosuggestion developed by Emile Coué, emphasizing how positive thoughts can influence physical and mental health. It aims to provide readers with practical tools to improve their well-being through the use of autosuggestion methodologies. The opening of the book introduces the teachings of Emile Coué, describing his clinic in Nancy and the patients he treats using autosuggestion. Through case examples, it illustrates how patients respond positively to Coué's methods, demonstrating the power of thought in overcoming ailments and improving self-perception. The narrative depicts a vibrant atmosphere at the clinic, highlighting Coué's gentle, encouraging approach as he guides patients to believe in their ability to heal and improve through the internalization of positive suggestions. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the principles and practices of autosuggestion that promise to enhance mental and physical health.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Practice of Autosuggestion, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • uplifting
  • instructive
  • hopeful

C. Harry Brooks's "The Practice of Autosuggestion" serves as an early 20th-century self-help guide, popularizing the psychological methods of Emile Coué. The book meticulously outlines how individuals can harness the power of positive self-talk and belief to foster improved physical and mental well-being. Beginning with a vivid depiction of Coué's clinic in Nancy, it showcases compelling case examples where patients overcome various ailments through guided autosuggestion. Brooks elucidates Coué's gentle, encouraging approach, emphasizing the mind's profound capacity to influence the body and self-perception, thereby offering readers practical tools for self-improvement and healing.

“"Every day, in every way, I'm getting better and better."”

Key themes

The Power of the Subconscious Mind
This is the foundational theme, asserting that the subconscious mind holds immense power over physical health, emotional states, and overall well-being. Brooks, through Coué, argues that conscious will is often ineffective against deeply ingrained subconscious beliefs, and true change comes from influencing this deeper mental layer through repeated positive suggestions.
Mind-Body Connection
The book strongly advocates for the inextricable link between mental states and physical health. It posits that illnesses and physical discomforts are often exacerbated or even caused by negative thought patterns and that, conversely, positive mental states can facilitate healing and recovery. This theme challenges purely mechanistic views of medicine.
Self-Efficacy and Personal Empowerment
Brooks's work instills a profound sense of personal responsibility and empowerment, arguing that individuals possess the inherent capacity to influence their own health and happiness through conscious effort. It shifts the locus of control from external factors (doctors, medication) to internal mental processes, encouraging readers to become active participants in their well-being.

Worth discussing

How does Brooks's presentation of autosuggestion compare to modern understanding of the placebo effect or cognitive behavioral therapy?

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