Frequently asked questions
There are many mistaken beliefs about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. We have explained some of the more frequently asked questions below and would be happy to talk to you if you have any additional questions or concerns.
WHAT IS CLINICAL HYPNOSIS?
Hypnosis is a natural state of selective, focused attention and even though it is 100% natural and normal, it is still one of the most fascinating experiences. Our ability to enter this unique state of consciousness opens up to us countless possibilities for healing, self-exploration and change.
Clinical Hypnosis (or Hypnotherapy) is the use of this unique state of consciousness (referred to as trance), for therapeutic gain. This means that people are not treated with hypnosis but are treated in hypnosis. When we enter the absorbed state of hypnosis, we can use our thoughts, talents and experiences in ways not usually available to us. With the help of a clinical
hypnotherapist, we can develop innate, individual abilities that enable us to makedesired changes in our thoughts, feelings and behaviours possible. For reasons that are as yet not clear, the focused state of hypnosis allows intentional changes to be made ”automatically” which we could not ordinarily consciously make.
Hypnosis has been used in the treatment of phobias, pain, anxiety, stress, habit disorders (such as smoking, excess alcohol), and many other psychological and medical problems. However, it may not be useful for all psychological problems or for all patients or clients. The decision to use hypnosis can only be made by people who have been trained in the use and limitations of clinical hypnosis and sometimes will need the agreement of your doctor.
WHAT DOES HYPNOSIS FEEL LIKE?
The word hypnosis comes from the ancient Greek word 'hypnos' meaning sleep, but it is mis-named. Hypnosis is not sleep. Sleep and hypnosis may seem similar since we may be relaxed and have our eyes closed (although not necessarily), but there are many differences. One main difference is that we tend to be in a relaxed state, but with heightened awareness under hypnosis. If a person were to fall asleep during a session, they would return to normal consciousness when asked to, or simply awaken after a short nap. They would feel refreshed, relaxed and would have no ill effects at all.
The hypnotic state is characterised by a pleasant state of relaxation which individuals allow themselves to enter. Desired, beneficial suggestions are given directly to the part of the mind known as the subconscious. Under hypnosis, the conscious, rational part of the brain is temporarily bypassed, making the subconscious part, which influences mental and physical functions, receptive to therapy. Under hypnosis, there is heightened concentration for the specific purpose of maximising potential, changing limiting beliefs and behaviours, and gaining insight.
The intensity of hypnosis may be light, medium or deep. A medium depth trance is usually used, during which metabolism, breathing and heartbeat slow and the brain produces alpha waves. Normal states of consciousness (i.e. sleeping, dreaming, being awake) can be detected in the wave patterns produced by the brain. The state of hypnosis differs from all three. The brainwaves associated with quiet, receptive states are called alpha waves. In alpha states, the body gradually relaxes. Hypnosis, meditation, day dreaming, being absorbed in a book or music or television, or driving and arriving at your destination without recalling all the usual landmarks, etc. are good examples of alpha states.
Some people, after a session of hypnosis, do not believe that they were hypnotized. This comes from misconceptions about just what a 'trance' really is. There are differences between the brain waves of people who are asleep and those who are in trance. In practice, people who are hypnotized often talk with the hypnotist, and can both answer and ask questions, hear everything that is said very clearly, and are perfectly well aware.
THERE IS NO MYSTERIOUS FEELING TO BEING HYPNOTIZED AND OUR MINDS ARE NOT TAKEN OVER NOR CONTROLLED. THIS EXPECTATION AND PERHAPS A DEMAND TO HAVE SOME MYSTERIOUS EXPERIENCE BEYOND CONSCIOUS CONTROL OR AWARENESS SEEMS TO LEAVE SOME PEOPLE DISAPPOINTED AND EVEN DENYING THEY HAD ANY EXPERIENCE AT ALL.
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
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