1. Dispel the Mystery of Hypnosis
When most people hear the word “hypnosis,” they think of subjects acting like monkeys or falling asleep at the snap of a finger. Hypnosis can achieve these kinds of extravagant reactions, but it is most effective when used as a therapeutic tool. Hypnosis hinges upon the principle of suggestion, focusing primarily upon suggestions that target the subconscious mind. Commercials and political campaign ads take advantage of these techniques by providing subtle cues that induce receptive minds to respond. Ever seen a sizzling steak on television and made an impulsive decision to head to the restaurant advertising this succulent entree? If so, you've experienced the power of hypnotic suggestion.
“Short-circuiting” the brain is the key that makes hypnosis work. In other words, hypnotism bypasses conscious thoughts, and then taps into a person’s subconscious so that suggestions can be effectively implanted. While hypnotized, the subject experiences reduced activity in the left hemisphere of the cerebral cortex, the brain’s control center for logic and reason. Simultaneously, the person’s lower-frequency brainwaves spike, indicating a decrease in conscious thought and an increase in the person’s dream-state. Because the subject’s capacity for logic, reason and inhibition have been effectively circumvented, they are more receptive to instructions directed at their impulsive and imaginative subconscious mind. Furthermore, the subconscious regulates memory, emotions and bodily sensations, allowing the hypnotist direct access to these areas. That is why skilled therapists can recall repressed memories and why successful hypnotists can make a person taste chocolate by merely speaking the word.
2. Start By Practicing Relaxation Techniques
Find a quiet place free of distractions and assume a sitting position. Lying down on a comfortable couch or bed is also helpful. Keep your goal in mind by writing down or memorizing a list of positive affirmations such as, “I am calm," "I feel no stress" and "My world is peaceful.” These are the suggestions you will make to your subconscious mind. Close your eyes and focus on relaxing to invoke a trance-like state similar to deep meditation. Relaxation techniques comparable to those used by Cognitive-Behavioral therapists for combating phobias or anxiety will complete the hypnotic trance.
The best way to practice them is to focus on a repetitive word, phrase, sensation, prayer or sound. Control intrusive thoughts by dismissing them and returning to your meditation as quickly as possible. Next, employ progressive muscle relaxation by focusing on a particular muscle group such as the face or hands. Allow this group to become calm and at rest, and then move to the next group, working your way down your body until you are completely relaxed. Techniques such as PMR will help you regulate your breathing while simultaneously decreasing your body’s metabolic activity. Soon, you will enter a trance-like state conducive to subconscious suggestion.
3. Bombard Your Subconscious With Positive Suggestions
The final step is perhaps the easiest. By the time you have completed the trance, your body will already be in an intense state of relaxation. You should notice rather quickly that whatever anxiety you were previously experiencing has now diminished. Transition from your repetitive relaxation cues to the positive affirmations you prepared earlier.
Assert these statements to your subconscious mind for a period of 15 to 25 minutes while remaining motionless. When you emerge from your trance, you should notice a definite decrease in stress that remains in effect for the duration of your day. If achieving this goal is too difficult, increase the time you introduce suggestions or visit a trained hypnotherapist and ask her to assist you.
