There are many different definitions for describing what Neuro Lingustic Programming (NLP) is. However, quite simply NLP is a collection of practical and easy to use tools and techniques, which enable fast and effective personal change to happen. It is the study of human experiences, communication, thinking, language and behaviour.

NLP was developed by Richard Bandler and John Grinder in the 1970s, through them studying the excellent behaviours and results of a number of world class communicators and therapists, in order to model them. Those who were initially studied included Hypnotherapist Dr Milton Erickson, gestalt therapist Fritz Perls and family therapist Virginia Satir, although many more have since contributed to develop and enhance NLP even further.

Neuro:

The nervous system and mind, through which our experience is processed

via five senses.

[Visual, Auditory, Kinaesthetic (feelings), Olfactory (smells) and Gustatory (tastes)].

Linguistic:

How we communicate using language and other non-verbal communication systems,

through which our neural representations are coded, ordered and given meaning.

Programming:

The ability to discover and utilise the programs that we run and our patterns of

behaviour (our communication to ourselves and others) in our neurological systems

to achieve our specific and desired outcomes.

One of the main benefits of NLP is that it allows you to study, analyse and install models of human excellence into yourself. Some think of the NLP toolbox of techniques, as an instruction manual for the mind. It enables you to create change both at a conscious and unconscious level.

“NLP is an explicit and powerful model of human experience and communication. Using the principles of NLP it is possible to describe any human activity in a detailed way that allows you to make many deep and lasting changes quickly and easily.”

Frogs into Princes – Richard Bandler and John Grinder.