Hypnotherapy
If you are thinking of trying Hypnosis, here are some facts that will clear up some myths and misconceptions about exactly what Hypnosis is.
Is Hypnosis anything like you see on TV?
If you feel about hypnosis the way most of the general public feel about hypnosis, it is not surprising; as to all intents and purposes, most hypnosis TV and stage shows make it appear as if people are somehow under the control of the hypnotist.
What is not known, is that before a show, a member of the production team will ask the audience for volunteers to take part on stage. The stage hypnotist will then, thoroughly identify and choose only the most suggestible and extrovert members from this group.
These people will have probably been out for a meal before the show, and with a couple of drinks behind them, they will certainly be up for a bit of fun, fully expecting to relax their inhibitions.
It will be no surprise to find that these specially chosen members of the audience, will be made up only of the types of people who enjoy being in the limelight, being watched, cheered and egged on by an audience, also looking to have some fun at their expense.
If these people do something on stage that seems odd to us, eg acting like some sort of animal, it will only be, because what they have been asked to do, is ok and totally fine by them.
If on the other hand, the hypnotist was to go on to suggest something untoward, something that the participant really objected to, he or she would refuse to comply, and immediately come out of trance.
So what exactly is Hypnotherapy?
A hypnoidal state, more commonly called ‘trance’ is a state of altered consciousness, where with the help of various hypnotic methods, the body experiences an extreme though enjoyable state of relaxation, whilst at the same time, the mind becomes concentrated, highly focused and alert.
At this point, the subconscious becomes highly receptive to the positive therapeutic suggestions of the therapist, relating to the unwanted behaviours or beliefs, encouraging and influencing beneficial change in the future.
The altered state that is necessary for hypnosis (alpha brain wave activity) is a normal and natural state that we all go in and out of many times a day. For instance, when you let go of your focus, on the task as hand eg whilst day-dreaming, and drift into your own world for a few moments you are at that moment experiencing a light state of self-hypnosis. And whether you experience a light, medium or a deep hypnotic state in a session, you can still get good results.
The experience of being in trance differs for everyone, however some of the features of trance are: -
- eye closure
- rapid eye-movement sometimes
- the body remains still and there can be either a floating or heavy feeling to the limbs
- the body sinks comfortably into the chair
- breathing will slow down
- heightened awareness and focus on the therapist’s voice
- a feeling of calm and tranquility
-
some liken it to that enjoyably cosy and snoozy sunday morning feeling - when you open your eyes, but know you do not have to wake up
You will be in a comfortable and deeply relaxed state, though completely aware and in control, and you cannot be made to do anything that does not fit in with your own value system.
And even though you may drift off at times, you will remember everything, if you so wish. All imagery and suggestions used will be completely in line with your pre-set goal for therapy, helping to neutralise limiting beliefs, and bring about positive transformation.
Some other myths about Hypnosis:
- When working with a professionally trained therapist, one with whom you have a good raport, Hypnosis is a safe and comfortable process
- Most people can be hypnotised, as long as they really want to be
- You cannot become stuck in hypnosis,because you will always arouse easily and effortlessly, similar to coming out of a daydream
- You will be totally aware of what is happening at all times, and also of any background noises inside or outside of the room
- You will not divulge anything that you would rather not
If you have any other questions please e-mail or call so that we may discuss them.