Hypnosis is one of several relaxation methods that has been approved by an independent panel, convened by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a useful complementary therapy.
HYPNOSIS IS a very normal, natural state that we all experience in some way, every day. It is a state of intense, focused concentration-not a form of sleep.
Examples of daily hypnosis are: daydreaming, driving a car and realizing
that you can't remember the last three or four streets you passed, or worse,
driving right past your exit! Another example is when you are so engrossed
in a book or movie that you don't hear someone speaking to you.
These are examples of a light hypnotic state. In these instances, the
conscious part of the mind had been distracted, allowing the subconscious
mind to take over. You have probably seen Olympic champions or professional
athletes pause for a few minutes before competing--many are utilizing the
power of their mind by entering self-hypnosis to improve their focus,
concentration, and performance.
WHY HYPNOSIS?
Hypnosis is an effective tool for change that has faster and longer lasting
results than traditional therapies. It is a comfortable and safe procedure
in which learning to relax deeply and focus attention is the key to success!
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE HYPNOTIZED?
Everyone's experience is slightly different, but most find it extremely pleasant and enjoyable, saying they've never felt so relaxed, comfortable, and secure.
WILL I DO SOMETHING AGAINST MY WILL?
No!! You cannot be made to do anything that would go against your moral beliefs. Hypnosis is not the same as sleep; you do not "pass out", and you are not unconscious. While hypnotized, you are always in control and will accept only those suggestions that would be beneficial to you. In fact, your will-power may be strengthened with hypnosis.
CAN I GET "STUCK" IN HYPNOSIS?
There is NO danger of a person staying hypnotized. In fact, it is absolutely
impossible. Even if the hypnotherapist left the office while the individual
was in a hypnotic state, there would be no danger. That person would either
open their eyes or drift off into a natural sleep and awaken naturally.
CAN I HEAR WHAT'S GOING ON AROUND ME?
Yes. You can hear surrounding noises but, unless important, they will be relegated to the background and become unimportant.
CAN I RESPOND TO AN EMERGENCY?
Yes. If something untoward occurs, you can "wake up" immediately.
WHO CAN BE HYPNOTIZED?
Anyone can be hypnotized! All that is needed is the desire to be hypnotized
and the ability to concentrate for a few moments.
ARE WEAK-MINDED PEOPLE EASIER TO BE HYPNOTIZED?
No. In fact, it is usually found that stronger-minded and stronger-willed
persons who want to be hypnotized achieve excellent results from hypnosis.
WHAT CAN HYPNOSIS HELP?
Since the American Medical Association recognized the use of hypnosis in
the 1950's, the list has grown enormously.
Some of the more common uses of hypnosis include:
