HYPNOTHERAPY
What is Hypnosis?
The actual experience of being hypnotised is very difficult
to describe as you are neither asleep nor awake. All hypnotic
states are characterised by a tremendously pleasant state
of relaxation, an altered state of consciousness into which
individuals allow themselves to enter so that desired, beneficial
suggestions may be given directly to the unconscious mind.
Thus, hypnosis is a natural and effective way of making
contact with the inner (unconscious) self, a source of many
of our problems as well as a tremendous reservoir of unrecognised
potential strength and knowledge, i.e. our forgotten assets.
History of Hypnosis
Hypnotic or suggestive therapy is the oldest of all healing
techniques. From the Sleep Temples of Egypt through the
histories of ancient Greece and Rome some form of hypnosis
has always been an intimate part of all cultures.
In the Middle Ages, healing through touch and prayer became
the major way of treating disease. In the 18th Century -
when it was believed that illness was caused by the magnetic
influence of astral bodies - Franz Anton Mesmer would induce
people into a trance like state by what he (erroneously)
believed to be Animal Magnetism. Although Mesmerism was
soon discredited, it continued to be used even after the
death of Mesmer as it often produced 'miracle' cures. When
James Braid re-examined Mesmerism in the 19th Century he
discovered that simple suggestion was just as effective
as Mesmerism or any other method to induce trance-like states.
It was he who coined the name Œhypnosis¹ and for
a time hypnosis became a scientific technique with scientific
respectability.
In the early part of the 20th Century the clinical use
of hypnosis fell by the way-side as technical advances in
medicine swiftly took over and, unfortunately, hypnosis
became used almost exclusively by stage hypnotists thereby
projecting a hopelessly distorted view of this very powerful
therapeutic tool. However, in 1955 the British Medical Association
endorsed the practice of hypnosis in Medical School education.
Today, many people are once again turning to it as it is
now widely recognised as a valuable addition to conventional
medical treatment.
Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy means the use of hypnosis for the treatment
and relief of a variety of somatic and psychological symptoms.
Modern Hypnotherapists use Hypnosis not only for medical
purposes but also as an aid for the resolution of many problems
of psychological origin.
It is estimated that approximately 85% of people from all
age groups will readily respond to Hypnotherapy. It is often
successful when other, more conventional, methods of treatment
have failed. Nobody can ever be hypnotised against their
will and, even when hypnotised, people can still reject
any of the suggestions given if they are not appropriate.
Hypnosis Sessions
A session of hypnosis takes around one to two hours. The
treatment involves working with your specific problem to
ensure that you not only effect a remission from the symptom,
but find a more appropriate way of coping for the future.
It involves treating both situational and emotional triggers
and includes emphasis on any concerns you might have about
your problem. These are then incorporated into the treatment
so you do not replace the problem with anything else. You
leave feeling fine and relaxed.
Clinical Applications
Listed below are some of the conditions for which Hypnotherapy
is indicated as a practical treatment:
- Breaking unwanted habits (e.g. smoking, alcoholism,
drug abuse, nocturnal enuresis, nail biting, stuttering).
- Obtaining relief and often remission from symptoms such
as: Asthma, Migraine, gastro-intestinal and neurological
disorders.
- Dermatological conditions such as Eczema, Psoriasis,
Neuro-dermatitis, Herpes Simplex and Warts.
- Gynaecological problems such as PMT, Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea,
Psychogenic Infertility, and in Obstetrics for painless
childbirth.
- Pain control for minor surgery, dentistry, Arthritis
and general neuromuscular aches and pains.
- Hypnosis can free the individual from phobias, compulsions,
emotional problems, insomnia, inhibitions, guilt feelings,
jealousy, and many of the worries and anxieties of everyday
life.
- Sexual problems such as Impotence, Premature Ejaculation,
Frigidity, Vaginismus and others.
- The use of Self-Hypnosis will help prevent stress and
tensions caused by modern day living, reduce high blood
pressure (hypertension) and the risk of cardiovascular
disease.
- Hypnotherapy is effectively used for weight control,
enhancing work/study/sporting performance, improving concentration
and memory, developing the imagination, boosting self-confidence,
and achieving more of the potential which we each possess.
Hypnotherapy is completely natural and safe and there are
no harmful side effects. When administered by a professionally
trained and skilled Hypnotherapist the benefits are long
lasting and often permanent.
Questions
Are there any side effects?
Yes, you sleep better and feel more confident about everything.
Am I in control?
You will hear everything that is being said, but do not
need to listen. Everything you wish to take on board you
will.
Can everybody be hypnotised?
Yes, but only if you want to be.
How does it feel?
Different for everybody, but always pleasant.
Can I have someone there with me?
Yes, if you wish. Most people feel more comfortable on their
own, but it is entirely up to the individual.
What if I don¹t really want to change?
On a conscious level we all want to change, but sometimes
it seems as if a part of ourselves holds onto a problem
longer than necessary. Hypnosis helps the individual to
change at a speed and in a manner which is appropriate for
them.
How long does it take?
Often one session is sufficient to effect an improvement
to the symptom. Your therapist will be able to give an estimate
of the number of sessions you will need. Remember, change
will occur in a speed and manner appropriate to you.
Information Courtesy of
:
British Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BSCH)
15 Connaught Square
Marble Arch
London
W2 2HG
Tel: 020 7499 2813
Email: sec@bsch.org.uk
For Further information visit the website
www.bsch.org.uk
