Hypnotherapy
What is hypnotherapy?
Though its roots can be found in ancient Asia and Egypt, Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer is thought to be the first physician to apply hypnotherapy to health and healing. In the early 1900s ether was the most widely used anesthetic. Many people would die during or after surgery from the anesthesia. Dr. Henry Munro found that he could use less ether to anesthetize his patients if he hypnotized them beforehand and alleviated their fears of surgery. He would then tell them how much better they would feel after surgery.
Usually when we think of hypnotherapy, we think of it in terms of entertainment. We see in our mind the distinguished gentleman speaking calmly and evenly to his volunteer on stage. Then at the gentleman's command the volunteer does all manner of uncharacteristic things. However, hypnotherapy is actually a vital part of the complimentary and alternative medical practices.
How does hypnotherapy work?
Hypnotherapy is a state of consciousness that transcends the normal state of awareness. In a hypnotic state a person becomes highly susceptible to suggestion. In this condition, a person's memory can be altered, their fears addressed and oftentimes alleviated without causing distress to the person.
A hypnotic state is achieved by relaxing the body, removing the mind from external surroundings, and focusing on even, deep breathing. In order to be hypnotized, the patient must have a willingness to be hypnotized. The hypnotist and the patient must have a good relationship. There has to be trust between the two before hypnosis can take place. The last important ingredient is to be in a relaxing environment. The surroundings should be calm and safe. These three things are essential for a successful hypnotic session.
What is hypnotherapy used for?
Hypnotherapy is widely used to modify behavioral disorders. It continues to be used in diet clinics to cure eating disorders or to change a patient's way of thinking about food and instilling self-confidence in those with weight problems. Hypnotherapy has also been proven to help people stop smoking and kick the nicotine habit.
As an aid in relaxation, hypnotherapy is used to help the person to deal with worries and anxieties on a subconscious level in order to get the rest they need. Also, hypnotherapy is used in pain management.
Hypnotherapy is also used on athletes to get them relaxed and ready for competitions. For students who have trouble focusing or have learning blocks in certain subjects, hypnotherapy can greatly enhance their ability to concentrate and retain more information in memory. Are there any precautions to take in hypnotherapy?
When hypnosis is used as an entertainment tool, there can be some very negative results. Some people with a fragile psychological state have been known to be pushed over the edge having been hypnotized for entertainment. A hypnotist must be very careful to assess a person's psychological health before performing hypnosis. A hypnotist must also be aware of their patient's religious views and moral code. They must not suggest anything that is in opposition to the patient's belief system.
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