By Prakash Jagwani

The first thing we learned was verbal and non-verbal rapport and how useful they can be. We built up on the rapport skills by learning about chunking up and chunking down. Funny though, the previous exercise taught us how to build rapport then we learned how we can either maintain it or not depending on the language we chose.

Learning about the skills to facilitate change were next. Jonathan taught about modes from the rapport discussion. We went on to learn about modes and submodalities and how we can adjust them and create change on ourselves. Little did I know, this was the SLOW way. We took it a step further and learned how to do a distance-based swish.

We also learned how to look for the better things in life instead of focusing on what isn't working as well as we'd like it to. We learned that questions lead our thoughts. We asked different questions and came up with submodality adjustments we could make.

Okay, so I learned how to do these changes. What about interacting with people? Next, Jonathan taught us about the effects of energy, emotion and tonality on others. We learned how what we feel affects those around us and how we can learn to feel better by listening to our internal rhythms.

Some of the other things I learned which I'm not certain were part of the seminar is that the only way to LEARN NLP is to DO NLP. I also learned how to accept new people into my life and that I learn at an accelerated pace when I get to play two roles during the exercises, teacher and student.

During the exercises, it seemed as though we were learning about multiple things at the same time. For example, during the submodalites and the energy/tonality exercise, we also learned about sensory acuity by noticing reactions in the other person and that we shouldn't read into them.

Since the training, I've been told that my attitude, behavior and reactions are very different. This has allowed to be more productive at work and in social situations. Another thing is that when trying to resolve an issue, I think I can come to creative solutions and ideas quicker by using better quality questions.

I particularly appreciate the fact that the changes that occurred over the weekend were suggested through Jonathan's hypnotic and trance inducing stories. It allowed me to feel as though I was allowing the changes to take place which gave me a sense of comfort.

Another thing about the training that I enjoyed was that each skill we learned was built upon us learning the previous skills. That way we were could build a level of competency before moving on. If any of the students were having difficulty, Jonathan helped out by nudging us in the right direction. I'm glad he pointed us in the right direction instead of just handing us the answer.

The training was held at a private seminar location. I am within driving distance so I stayed at home. If you consider coming into town, there are many hotels and restaurants in the area.

If I could sum it up, I'd say that Jonathan's Personal Transformation weekend just might help you get over some hurdles or get past some issues that are obstacles in your path.