Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnosis
Does hypnosis really work?
Hypnosis and self-hypnosis have been part of research studies and reports for decades. Just a quick search at the National Institutes of Health MedLinePlus site will reveal research results in cancer, pain control, headaches, breast diseases, post-traumatic stress disorder, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, orgasmic dysfunction, delayed ejaculation, and many other conditions. A common thread through these and other studies and reports is that hypnosis, and mind-body medicine in general, works.
What does hypnosis feel like?
The hypnotic state is simply a relaxed, yet focused state of mind. If you have ever been lost in a hobby or work, relaxed and focused, largely unaware of the passage of time or the outside world, you have been in a hypnotic state. It is normal to hear outside sounds and the voice of the hypnotist during hypnosis, but these sounds are outside of the focus of the treatment.
What is a hypnosis induction?
Hypnotic induction is any process by which a hypnotist helps the client attain the hypnotic state. Methods of induction include subjective (spoken) approaches such as progressive relaxation and visualization, and objective (physical) methods such as fixation on visual objects or a spot on the wall, and combinations of these. Nearly all self-hypnosis recordings rely entirely on the subjective approach.
Where may I learn self-hypnosis?
Self-hypnosis is quite easy to learn. There are many books that present the basics, and several recorded courses in self-hypnosis that one may purchase. Alternatively, a hypnotist can teach you self-hypnosis, generally in a single session.
Can hypnosis be used to quit smoking, break habits or manage weight?
In hypnosis, one of the strongest areas of efficacy is replacing bad habits with good ones. A great deal of research has been done to verify that hypnosis is an effective therapy for habits such as smoking and overeating. Most hypnotists and hypnotherapists will use hypnotic suggestion to help you break poor habits and establish healthy habits. While some practitioners have success with single-session smoking cessation and weight loss treatments, most clients will find that several sessions will be required.
Can hypnosis be used to reduce pain and/or suffering from illness?
Pain is a function of the mind. When the body is experiencing injury or ill-health, pain is the warning signal that is sent to the brain. Many studies have found that the sensation of pain is largely a subjective experience that may be modified. Hypnosis, self-hypnosis and meditation have all been used with considerable success to treat both acute and chronic pain by relaxing the body and realigning the mind's relationship with pain. If you are experiencing pain, hypnosis is a safe and effective option.
Can hypnosis really help students study better and business people be more creative?
Learning and creativity are activities that make use of the right and left sides of the brain, and involve both the conscious and subconscious aspects of ourselves. Hypnosis directly accesses the subconscious, and the relaxed hypnotic state is a useful starting point from which to develop greater balance of mind and body. Many people have used hypnosis and self-hypnosis to improve study ability and memorization, increase confidence, find creativity, and achieve business success. If you are motivated to change yourself, hypnosis can be the engine that makes effective change possible.