Hypnosis is a highly relaxed state of focused concentration. It is a safe, natural, pleasurable state in which our subconscious mind can receive positive suggestions and, therefore, make positive changes in our day-to-day lives (the subconscious mind is much more powerful than the conscious mind). In 1958, the American Medical Association accepted hypnotherapy as an appropriate therapeutic technique. Many doctors, nurses, and dentists have been trained in hypnosis to help reduce pain in their patients, and in some cases as a substitute for anesthesia. A trained practitioner can easily teach patients to perform self-hypnosis.
Everyone experiences at least a light state of hypnosis nearly every day, whether they realize it or not. For example, when you are engrossed in a good book or a movie, you feel the characters’ emotions. You are so focused on it that you forget what is happening around you, or when you are driving your car and arrive at your planned destination but do not remember how you got there.
The Truths
Hypnosis has a high success rate for smoking cessation, reducing stress, and improving sleep, self-confidence, procrastination, and weight loss. Numerous studies demonstrate this, including these results of a 2007 comparative study by American Health magazine:
- Psychoanalysis: 38% success after 600 sessions
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: 72% success after 22 sessions
- Hypnotherapy: 93% success after 6 sessions
Hypnosis works for everyday problems, even when everything else has failed. This is because it works with the power of the subconscious mind, where all your memories and emotions are stored. However, there are many misconceptions about hypnosis.
The Myths
Many people believe they are not capable of being hypnotized. However, anyone of standard intelligence who is willing to follow instructions can be hypnotized. A person may not be hypnotized against their will – despite popular opinion, your hypnotist does not have any control over you. Your hypnotist is like a coach who will work with you and your goals, which are discussed and agreed upon before the session. You are in control of your session the entire time. If you disagreed with any of the suggestions given to you by your hypnotist, you would simply reject those suggestions. So, hypnosis is indeed safe.
Another common misconception is that you will get stuck in hypnosis. This is actually not possible. If the hypnotist happened to stop talking or leave the room, after not hearing his or her voice, you would eventually emerge from hypnosis on your own.
The Benefits
Online hypnosis sessions are becoming increasingly popular among clients and are just as effective as in-person sessions, providing many benefits. The sessions take place in the safety and comfort of your own home or office, which can be very beneficial because they naturally help you feel more comfortable, relaxed, open, and receptive.
Online sessions are convenient for people with mobility issues, those in remote areas, or anyone with a busy schedule. All that is needed is a quiet area, a laptop computer with a webcam, and a reliable internet connection. Another benefit of online sessions is that they offer a flexible alternative when in-person sessions are not possible – such as during illness, transportation issues, or inclement weather.
Hypnosis sessions are a safe way to help you overcome everyday problems. It is important to find a reputable hypnotist who is certified by and affiliated with a well-known hypnosis organization, such as the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH). It is also essential to work with someone with whom you feel comfortable and with whom you have established rapport. Hypnosis is not magic; it takes a team approach with your hypnotist, and you will be more successful when incorporating self-hypnosis in between sessions.
Kristina Mozzicato is a Certified Hypnosis Professional and is a member of the NGH. She is also certified in 5-PATH® Hypnosis by the International Association of Hypnosis Professionals (IAHP) and is a certified 7th Path Self-Hypnosis® teacher.
For more information, please call 860.778.0315 or visit: abundanthealthhypnosis.com
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