Hypnotherapy
Complimentary (free) Group Hypnosis Seminars:
Hypnosis
Weight Management January 14th 6pm-7:30pm • January 28th 6pm-7:30pm Stress Management February 11th 6pm-7:30pm Workshop: Healing Your Heart With Forgiveness February 14th • 9am - 12pm • $55
Myths, Facts, and Benefits by Suzy Day, CCHt, CLC, Mind-Body Wellness Practitioner
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ew people realize that altered states of consciousness are a natural and normal part of their everyday lives. The twilight moments between sleeping and wakefulness are altered states of consciousness, as are daydreaming, meditating, and being fully engrossed in a book or movie. Hypnosis is also an altered state of consciousness, one which utilizes the subconscious mind to solve problems, achieve goals, and create harmony and balance of body, mind, and spirit. Although it was not coined as “hypnosis” until the 1840s, this healing process has been used throughout history. There are records of hypnosis dating back 2,500 years in China and Egypt. In more recent times, many wounded World War II soldiers were successfully treated with hypnosis on the battlefield when morphine was unavailable. During a hypnosis session, an altered state of consciousness is achieved by deeply relaxing the body and stilling the conscious mind. In a relaxed state, the conscious mind steps aside, allowing the subconscious mind to come to the forefront to accept suggestions for the changes an individual desires. Hypnosis is a direct way to communicate with the subconscious mind, where our beliefs and thoughts are stored and habits are created. Lasting changes, such as releasing undesired habits and limiting thoughts, are experienced based on the information provided to the subconscious mind during hypnosis. Because the subconscious speaks the language of metaphorical images, using detailed images (also known as suggestions), the desired changes are produced
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rapidly. The subconscious accepts the suggested goals and objectives and automatically integrates them at a conscious level. Hypnotherapy is a client-centered, solution-focused tool for health which brings about profound change because it is specifically guided by the client’s goals and objectives. The process requires client participation and collaboration, so rather than being performed on them, hypnosis is performed with the co-creative efforts of the client. This approach is what makes hypnotherapy so effective - it is meaningful and specific to the individual. The entire approach is based on understanding and working with the individual’s perceptions and experiences in the world. Unfortunately, hypnosis has often been inaccurately portrayed as hocus-pocus, mind control, and even somewhat darkly mystical. These myths have created a veil of misunderstanding of this effective tool for health and wellness. In an effort to quell fears and illuminate the truths, below is a list of some prevalent myths, followed by the factual information: Myth: Hypnosis is a form of mind-control. FACT: Any hypnotic suggestion not in alliance with your core beliefs and values would be rejected by your subconscious mind. When stage hypnosis is used for entertainment purposes, participants may act silly, but they never do things against their better judgment.
er reveal anything you do not want to share or are not ready to share. Myth: It’s possible to never wake up from hypnosis. FACT: No one has ever remained in a hypnotic state; full and functional awareness always returns. Myth: You won’t be able to remember what happens while under hypnosis. FACT: Similar to dreaming, awareness can fade in and out during a session. However, people are quite often aware of everything that transpires and able to recall the entire experience. Myth: A person’s memory can be erased while under hypnosis. FACT: Memories cannot be erased. However, hypnosis can help manage the emotions related to the memories. Myth: Hypnosis is contrary to religious beliefs. FACT: Hypnosis is not associated with any religion; many religious groups accept the use of hypnosis for helping people. Professional hypnotherapists respect the faith of each individual and do not attempt to influence them.
Myth: Not everyone can be hypnotized. FACT: Everyone has the capacity to experience hypnosis; a few factors can limit the effectiveness, though. Fears stemming from misconceptions can impact the experience. Willingness to participate plays a significant role; if a person does not want to be hypnotized, they will not undergo hypnosis. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or having a mental condition which impedes the ability to focus, are also limiting factors. Some of the issues for which hypnotherapy is beneficial include: • Fears, phobias, and addictions • PTSD/trauma issues • Pain management • Enhanced memory • Test/Exam anxiety • Public speaking • Enhancing spiritual connection • Improving the quality of sleep • Increasing confidence & motivation • Children’s challenges (bed wetting, thumb sucking, nightmares) • Anxiety disorders • Stress management • Enhance sports performance • Weight loss • Smoking cessation
Myth: When under hypnosis, you can reveal secrets you wouldn’t normally express. FACT: Your subconscious will nev-
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THE HOME & GARDEN EDITION