Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and control, often described as a trance or altered state of consciousness. It is a natural state of mind and body connection that bypasses your thinking mind (conscious mind) and taps into the inner resources of your subconscious mind. Your subconscious mind is limitless. It stores everything – from previous life experiences and memories, to your beliefs and skills.
The hypnotic zone is naturally accessed by people all the time, typically without conscious awareness. Examples include daydreaming, getting absorbed in a good book, and driving somewhere then not remembering how you arrived! The list of these focusing activities is endless, and is often characterized by feelings of comfort, confidence, and timelessness. Clinical hypnosis is no different from these focused states, except you will experience them through the guidance of the therapist rather than spontaneously.
Because hypnosis allows you to use more of your potential, you are better able to tap into and employ your inner resources to make changes and gain self-control. The trance allows your mind to become more accepting to hypnotic and post-hypnotic suggestions from your therapist. The hypnotic zone is a safe and secure state of mind that helps us examine the roots of your problems and explore the alternatives. Solutions can be formed, new healthy behavior patterns can develop, and you can reconnect with your authentic self.
Ericksonian hypnosis focuses on the present rather than the past, a marked difference from traditional psychotherapies and hypnosis. With a solution-focused approach, this experience helps develop the skills needed to move forward and view the “problem” as the solution. Ericksonian hypnosis builds on strengths rather than pathologizing experiences.
What to Expect
During hypnosis, your body relaxes and you become more focused. Your blood pressure will lower and your heart rate will decrease. You will feel physically at ease yet highly responsive and awake mentally. Some people feel light, others feel lethargic.
According to Milton H. Erickson, M.D., who is considered the world’s leading authority on hypnosis, everyone is hypnotizable and can benefit from hypnotherapy. However, like all forms of therapy, hypnosis is most effective when the client is motivated to change. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that some people may benefit more than others. Some people have higher initial hypnotic responsiveness while others may require more training to reach this state.
What Can Hypnotherapy Help?
- Anxiety
- Smoking Cessation
- Weight Management
- Test Taking
- Public Speaking
- Depression
- Trauma
- Sports Performance
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