Let's debunk one of the greatest myths of hypnosis: swinging pocket watches and strange doctors. Hypnosis or Hypnotherapy has been an entertainment factor in pop culture over the years. This article will lay down the top facts about Hypnotherapy and how it can actually benefit your health and well-being.
What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that uses hypnosis to benefit your health in so many ways through standalone or supplemental treatment. It is performed by trained and licensed health care professionals. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), these professionals are trained in the use of hypnosis while working within the limits of their own professional expertise. In another statement by Mayo Clinic, hypnotherapy "uses verbal repetition and/or mental imagery (facilitated by a hypnotherapist or one's self) to induce a "trance-like state" of increased focus." This makes the patient feel calm, relaxed, and open to the power of suggestion.
Many studies support the claims of Hypnotherapy when it comes to health benefits and wellness. Here, we will introduce the top facts about Hypnotherapy based on results from various studies.
Fact #1: Hypnotherapy helps with anxiety.
A 2016 study conducted by researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine found that the hypnotized brain experiences changes in the brain, providing better physical and emotional control, more focused attention, and lesser self-consciousness. This has proved revolutionary for many researchers and scientists because of its effects on mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. According to David Spiegel, MD, professor and associate chair of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, "Hypnosis is the oldest Western form of psychotherapy...In fact, it’s a very powerful means of changing the way we use our minds to control perception and our bodies.”
Fact #2: Hypnotherapy aids in smoking cessation.
A study was conducted to show the benefits of hypnotherapy for smoking cessation. To gather data, an individualized and three-session hypnosis treatment was given to thirty smokers. After an initial consultation, twenty-one of these patients returned to receive the hypnosis treatment. At the end of the study, 81% of those patients reported they stopped smoking, and 48% were abstinent for 12 months post-treatment. Thus, most of the patients were pleased with the treatment.
Fact #3: Hypnotherapy helps with weight loss.
A controlled trial was conducted where hypnotherapy was used for weight loss in people with obstructive sleep apnea. It made use of two forms of hypnotherapy as opposed to simple diet advice for weight loss and sleep apnea. The results showed that all 60 participants of the trial lost at least 2 to 3% of their body weight in three months.
Fact #4: Hypnotherapy improves confidence.
One of the researches that show how hypnotherapy helps build confidence is the study conducted by the University of South Africa. It poses that during hypnosis, patients can rediscover early on their learned belief systems. Through this, negative and toxic self-image can be altered with hypnotic release methods or imagery journeys. Moreover, when someone is under a hypnotic state, positive affirmations are more effective and powerful.
Fact #5: Hypnotherapy calms nerves.
Probably the most well-known application of hypnosis is in relieving anxieties. It's a very effective strategy in easing state anxiety. In 2012, Melina Beck wrote in the Wall Street Journal, "The mechanism may be similar to the placebo effect -- in which patients' expectations play a major role in how they feel. Hypnosis, in turn, can help patients adjust those expectations to minimize pain, fear and disability."
Now that we have the facts straight, are you ready to get started with Hypnotherapy? Then you may consider us at David and DeAnna Park Hypnotherapy - a team of two exceptional members of the American Hypnosis Association. Learn more about our Therapeutic Hypnosis here: https://www.davidanddeannapark.com/