Hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that induces a natural altered state of consciousness, during which the subconscious mind, rather than the conscious mind, comes to the forefront and is receptive to direction and instruction. Approved by the American Medical Association in 1958 for more than 800 uses, it is a proven method of changing behaviors and habit patterns, including those related to obesity. Hypnosis has been shown to be a useful weight loss tool.
Misconceptions
Through media and stage shows, many people have gotten false impressions of hypnosis and how it works. It is not a state wherein a person becomes unconscious, loses free will and is then controlled by someone who can make him say and do that which he normally would not because he is gullible or weak-minded. Hypnosis is a powerful mind state that anyone can access, wherein the person is very relaxed yet still aware and maintains full mental and physical control.
Sessions
A weight-loss hypnotherapy session typically follows a 2-step process. In the first step, a qualified hypnotherapist induces the person into a hypnotic state where he feels relaxed and open to subconscious directives. Next, the hypnotherapist begins actively communicating with the subconscious mind to give specific instructions for overcoming the particular problems the individual has related to losing weight.
Instructions
The instructions given in the hypnotic state are fundamental to successfully losing unwanted pounds. The hypnotherapist provides instructions based on the specific issues faced in managing weight. For example, if a person regularly overindulges late at night, instructions are given to address and overcome this habit. Some instructions may be related to what one should or should not do after the session. For instance, rather than eat to relieve stress, the person should engage in another activity, such as taking a walk.
Behaviors
A common component of hypnosis for weight loss therapy is changing behaviors that work against the goal of losing weight and keeping it off. The hypnotherapist works through subconscious mind instructions to slowly make lifestyle changes that support weight management. These may include eating more healthy foods, eating only when hungry and only until one feels full, changing the food relationship to be about nourishment versus comfort, and instilling an appreciation for increasing activity levels in a sustainable fashion.
Balance
The process of successfully losing weight takes time and effort, and thus it can be stressful. Throughout the course of hypnosis sessions, the goal is to work at a moderate pace to incorporate lasting changes in a manner that is not too overwhelming. To this end, the hypnotherapist often provides instructions to help the individual manage his overall stress level and work on any other problematic areas of his life that may make it more difficult to follow instructions to succeed in accomplishing his weight loss goal.
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