What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis ─Is it magic or real science?
While hypnosis can have a reputation of being gimmicky stage entertainment, there are actual psychological benefits and noticeable effects on the brain.
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis refers to both an altered state of consciousness, characterized by focused attention and heightened suggestibility (also known as hypnotic trance), and the process by which this state is induced.
The American Psychological Association defines hypnosis as:
“A state of consciousness involving focused attention and reduced peripheral awareness characterized by an enhanced capacity for response to suggestion.”
Hypnosis is a tool that enables us to tap into our natural abilities, allowing us to make changes more effectively by focusing on an issue while filtering out irrelevant distractions. In a hypnotic trance behavioral, physiological, cognitive, and affective processes can be altered.
How is hypnosis used?
Many fields incorporate hypnosis into their practice. The most common hypnotic methods include:
- Mental imagery
- Visualization is used to recall positive memories and symbols and associating them with rewarding behavior.
- Example: “Imagine every detail in that room.” “What does it smell like?”
- Relaxation
- If the subject is relaxed the mind is more open to suggestion
- Example: “Make yourself comfortable.”
- Suggestion
- During a hypnotic trance, ideas and suggestions that are compatible with what the patient wants have a more powerful impact on the mind.
- Example: “You will stop smoking.”
Why should you care about hypnosis?
Hypnosis can be an useful asset to bring forth changes we are working towards, by directing attention on our goals. Hypnosis bypasses the interference of the conscious mind, allowing the person’s desired results to take effect.
“Because hypnosis allows people to use more of their potential, learning self-hypnosis is the ultimate act of self-control.”
– The American Psychological Association