Stage hypnosis for entertainment is not scientifically designed and a poor model for the medical hypnosis administered for weight loss. Dr. S. J. Van Pelt, a professional, clinical hypnotist, writing for the "Magazine for Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy," states that hypnotic subjects in the hands of amateur hypnotists may suffer mental and physical harm, and that such practices are a positive medical menace. A five-stage hypnosis script, scientifically designed by a trained professional, can support weight loss.
Relaxation Stage
Scientifically designed hypnosis scripts, as prepared by faculty at the American School of Hypnosis, begin with relaxation, regardless of the specific topic. Specialists speak in slow, measured cadences. If you cannot meet a therapist personally, you or a trusted friend can be instructed to precisely record a prepared script. Over a period of a few minutes in a comfortable, distraction-free environment, you are encouraged to relax deeply, often to a backwards count of 10 to zero. You are guided to becoming receptive to relaxation suggestions. Hypnosis does not take you into unconsciousness, but to a state of highly focused attention.
Non-Critical Listening Stage
Stage 2 encourages deeper, non-critical listening. According to the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis and the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, confidence in your hypnotist's medical training will bolster your uncritical acceptance. Your weight loss script will encourage you to accept your hypnotist as a sincere partner concerned for your well-being. It may also reassure you that your doctor approves of your weight loss goals as acceptable for your health conditions. This stage dispels reasons to resist suggestions.
Specific Suggestion Stage
This stage introduces the first weight loss suggestions. Calvin D. Banyan, a widely recognized expert practitioner, contributing to Hypnosis.org, says the power of this phase is in envisioning the "fork in the road." You will see yourself at a turning point. You can continue on your downward, unhealthy eating path or change directions with a list of health-promoting eating habits, practices and ideals. You will focus on bypassing your old, dangerous habits and foods. You will accept new knowledge about healthy alternatives.
Future-View Stage
In this stage you view yourself in a slim, healthy and fit body. This part of the hypnosis script gently guides you to a vision of your future self with a confident attitude. You will be as engaged on the path to success at the start as when final success is yours. A good script helps to design your new you in words and images that inspire you to stay with your new way of eating.
Confident Return Stage
Your session ends with suggestions to resume everyday activities confident that you are and always will be successful maintaining healthy weight. It includes suggestions that any mis-step is temporary. You will not lose confidence or ability to stay on your chosen path. This phase is not "awakening." Therapeutic hypnotism is not sleep. You simply return to awareness of the world beyond the voice guiding you. You grow gradually more alert and energized to a count of one to three.
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