What is Clinical Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and inner absorption. It’s a different way of being aware. This state of trance is a naturally occurring phenomenon. For instance: how often have you stared out a window and then wondered if you had been gone for twenty seconds, two minutes, or longer? Clinical hypnosis seeks to induce this experience of absorption intestinally. During the trance state, the door to the unconscious mind opens and the unconscious mind can be addressed in ways it understands. This usually involves the use of imagery, symbolism, and metaphor. So often, our conscious mind wants to do something, but the unconscious mind resists or sabotages the goals of the conscious mind. One use for clinical hypnosis is to resolve these conflicts, so that the conscious and unconscious mind can work together harmoniously. W
Who can be hypnotized?
Most people can comfortably and enjoyably enter a state of light, medium, or deep trance. Generally, a light trance is sufficient to accomplish most purposes of clinical hypnosis.
Can I be made to do something I don’t want to do?
No. During and after hypnosis, one remains in full control of his or her will. Certain “stage hypnotists” encourage their volunteers to perform outrageous behaviors to the delight of an audience. However, these hypnotists screen their volunteers and select those most open to the suggestions they will present.
What are the uses for clinical hypnosis?
Clinical hypnosis is a gentle, comfortable, and enjoyable way of learning deeper relaxation, to better cope with stress, to change ineffective habits, and reslove inner conflicts. Most people recall the whole experience of being in trance. However, they often report feeling more relaxed and have a deeper resolve to carry out their goals.
Will hypnosis help me?
Generally, the more motivated you are to change, the more beneficial hypnosis will be for you. For example: If you wish to become a non-smoker because your spouse doesn’t like cigarette smoke, you will probably not benefit from the smoking cessation protocol. However, if you seek hypnosis because you really want to quit for yourself, but have lacked the will power, hypnosis is much more likely to be effective in helping you accomplish your goal: becoming a non-smoker.
Hypnosis is a state of inner absorption, concentration and focused attention. It is like using a magnifying glass to focus the rays of the sun and make them more powerful. When our minds are concentrated and focused, we are able to use them more powerfully.
Much of this content is summarized and restated from American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Visit their site to learn more about clinical hypnosis and to find qualified practitioners.