Hypnosis is a natural state of deep relaxation and focused attention into a deep state of focus with verbal cues, repetition and imagery guided by a trained clinician or hypnotherapist.
How does hypnosis work?
Under hypnosis, the intense level of concentration and deep state of focus allows the individual to ignore ordinary distractions and be more open to guided suggestions to make changes. The guidance from the trained professional during this state can help modify or make desired changes to thoughts, perception and feelings.
There are four stages of hypnosis. Induction, the first stage initiates relaxation, and the person focuses their attention and ignores distractions. Deepening, which is the continuation of the first stage, with the goal to deepen the attention and relaxation. Suggestions, the third stage, where the actual change in experience, behaviour or perception happens and the suggestions discussed with the individual are made. The fourth stage is Emergence where the client comes out of the hypnotic state.
Therapeutic uses of Hypnosis
Hypnosis is usually integrated with other psychotherapies and treatments and is part of a broad treatment plan that can be discussed with your professional. The length of treatment varies depending on what and how severe the issue is. Hypnotherapy may help treat a number of medical conditions in which psychological factors influence physical symptoms.
Common mental and physical health uses include stress, anxiety, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), phobias, smoking cessation, obesity, insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), pain control and headaches (migraine and tension).
Myths about Hypnosis
Will I be asleep during hypnosis? Is Hypnosis the same as deep sleep?
Hypnosis is not the same as sleeping. The client is an active participant who remains responsive and aware of the environment. During the hypnotic state, people often talk with the therapist, and can ask and answer questions.
Will I lose consciousness and control of myself when hypnotized?
No, there is no loss of control during the process. Hypnotherapy allows clients to be more focused and less distractible. One remains aware of who they are, where they are and may or may not remember what happened during a hypnosis session (depending on the level of deepening).
Will I be under the control of the hypnotherapist when hypnotized?
The hypnotherapist guides the process of hypnosis. The individual can’t be made to do anything against their will. The individual doesn’t lose control over their behaviour. Hypnosis makes it easier to experience suggestions but doesn’t force you to have certain experiences.
Is it possible to get trapped in the hypnotic state?
No one stays hypnotized indefinitely. The client always comes out of the trance within a short period of time. During the hypnosis, the client can choose to ignore suggestions at any time.
If you believe hypnosis will work for you, call us and request a session with Gayatri Kainth.