NLP Neuro-Linquistic Programming

Neuro-Linguistic Programming, or NLP, encompasses the three most influential components of human behaviour through experience: Neurology, Language and Programming. Our neurology regulates our physiological functions, language is how we communicate with ourselves and with other people, and programming determines how we interpret and process the information we absorb via communication. It was originated by John Grinder (whose background was in linguistics) and Richard Bandler (whose background was in mathematics and gestalt therapy) for the purpose of making explicit models of human excellence. Their initial work was heavily influenced by the hypnotherapist Milton Erickson and behavioural therapist Virginia Satir. It describes the fundamental dynamics between the mind (neuro) and language (linguistic) and how their interplay affects our body and behavior (programming). NLP is a pragmatic school of thought founded on two fundamental presuppositions: 1. The Map is NOT the territory, and 2. Life and 'Mind' are Systemic Processes. That is, our bodies, societies and environment form an ecology of complex systems and sub-systems all of which interact with and mutually influence each other. Such systems are based on certain 'self-organizing' principles and naturally seek optimal states of balance or homeostasis. Although considered a pseudoscience by some, NLP proponents claim that by using it we can can model the skills of exceptional people, allowing anyone to acquire those same skills. It comes as no surprise that NLP techniques are often used by coaches to positively influence behaviour.