Does Hypnosis Work, the simple answer is yes, it works. Hypnosis has been well researched and proven to be a valid treatment for many conditions. It’s one of the oldest medical techniques known to man, dating back to ancient Greece. The Medical Dictionary defines hypnosis as: “a trance state characterized by extreme suggestibility, relaxation, and heightened imagination. It’s brought about by a hypnotist and client discussing real-life problems while the client is in a trance state.”
But what does this mean? First, let’s break it into understandable terms: Trance State: The trance state can be traditional or modern. Traditional means that you go into a deep trance and sit or lie down. Modern means that we use eye fixation, arm levitation, and finger signals to get the same results without you needing to lay down.
Suggestibility: A person in hypnosis is suggestible, which means that they are more open to suggestions from the hypnotist. This is why the hypnotist needs to be trained and skilled enough to make a person feel comfortable.
Relaxation: During a trance state, the subject relaxes, which means that muscles also relax, which can lead to pain relief as well as changes in blood flow and brain activity. This reduces both physical and mental tension. It’s also the reason why many people fall asleep when they are in a trance.
Heightened imagination: This is where the healing takes place. The hypnotherapist will spend time with you talking about your actual problems, then ask your subconscious mind to change things for the better. As the client imagines these changes, lasting positive changes are created at the core of who you are.
Does Hypnosis Work for many conditions, including allowing people to overcome certain fears and phobias, quit smoking, stop negative habits like nail-biting, reduce stress and anxiety, lose weight, control pain, etc. The list goes on and on. If you are suffering from an ailment or condition, I’m sure there is a psychologist or psychiatrist out there that uses hypnosis in their treatment of you.
The American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH) states on their website, “Hypnosis has been proven to be an effective adjunct to psychotherapy for many conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and mood swings.” They also note that it helps lessen the pain and discomfort of arthritis, headaches, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). And they are not alone. The American Medical Association does, too, stating, “The most effective treatment available for smoking cessation is hypnosis.”
In conclusion, hypnosis is real, and it works.