self-hypnosis is a form of relaxtion???

Think hypnosis is all hocus-pocus? If so, you're dismissing a powerful tool for impro-ving work performance, says Brian Alman, a psychotherapist who's trained staffers at Procter and Gamble and other companies. ''Self-hypnosis is a form of deep relaxation that helps you focus, solve problems and relieve anxiety about presentations and deadlines,'' he says. Here's how to try it:

Step 1: Close your eyes, and breathe slowly and deeply.

Step 2: State a specific goal such as ''I'll feel confident about presenting my market analysis.''

Step 3: Eyes still closed, count from one to 100, then back to one.

Step 4: Repetitive statements will focus your mind on achieving your goal. When you open your eyes, you'll feel refreshed and ready to work.