Hypnosis involves entering a trancelike state of mind characterized by intense concentration and inner focus. Typically guided by a therapist trained in hypnosis techniques, a hypnotherapy session may help you cope with life situations that cause stress, such as pain control during and following medical procedures. Hypnosis may also assist you in changing certain undesirable behaviors, leading to improvement in weight loss and success in achieving your goals.
Background
In the 1950s, psychologists Andre M. Weitzenhoffer and Ernest R. Hilgard of Stanford University developed a tool to measure a person's susceptibility to hypnosis. The Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scales remain in use today by psychologists and hypnotherapists. Additionally, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques demonstrate the changes your brain undergoes during hypnosis, reports the New Scientist. These findings give scientific and medical credence to a phenomenon that once served as entertainment by so-called stage hypnotists.
Technique
To begin a typical hypnotherapy session, the therapist thoroughly describes the process to you and discusses your expectations. You may be instructed to focus your attention on a specific object as the therapist encourages you to enter a state of deep relaxation by creating calming mental images using a soothing tone of voice. Once you achieve a hypnotic state, the therapist offers guided visualizations for achieving your goals and suggests ideas for you to try between sessions. These visualizations and ideas may include vivid images of you succeeding in whatever you are trying to accomplish. After a 30- to 60-minute session, the therapist gently guides you out of your trancelike state, typically leaving you feeling calm and relaxed.
Benefits
Hypnosis, especially in conjunction with exercise and diet, may help you lose weight. According to MayoClinic.com, people practicing hypnosis for weight loss dropped an average of six pounds, a moderate but significant amount of weight. Hypnosis may be a valuable positive visualization tool if you are an athlete trying to improve your performance. Hypnosis may also reduce anxiety and depression that may prevent you from achieving success in your personal or professional life.
Risks
Hypnotherapy is generally a safe complementary medical practice when practiced by a trained therapist. Rare side effects may include anxiety, headache, dizziness or, when undergoing age-regression therapy, the creation of false memories. Hypnosis is a type of psychotherapy, explains Dr. David Katz of Yale University. If you do not believe it will work for you, it is likely that hypnotherapy will not be successful for you. In that case, you may waste your money on hypnosis sessions.
Considerations
Not everyone is amenable to hypnosis. According to the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, 5 percent of the population is completely unable to be hypnotized. Most people can be hypnotized to some degree, however. Contrary to some beliefs, hypnosis will not cause you to lose your free will or indulge in behaviors you would not normally engage in. Hypnosis is not a cure for any condition, although it may be a useful adjunct to traditional therapies. Consult with a trained hypnotherapy professional for optimal results.
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