Each individual’s journey is unique, and what works for one person may not resonate with another.
Ahead, everything you better know about hypnotherapy.
Plus, my personal experience with hypnotherapy.
Stocksy
Meet the Experts
What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that relies on hypnosis to achieve a state of relaxation and enhanced attention.
Skepticism around hypnotherapy still exists within the scientific and medical communities.
Kate Sztabnik
Nonetheless, it is gaining broader acceptance as research and studies continue to explore its benefits.
Moreover, an increasing number of certified and licensed medical professionals are starting to integrate hypnotherapy into their practices.
How Does It Work?
Potential Benefits
Hypnotherapy offers a wide range of benefits for mental and physical well-being.
“Hypnotherapy helps many to be more productive, focused, calmer, and empowered,” she adds.
Can Anyone be Hypnotized?
As a result, the effects of hypnosis can differ widely from person to person.
During this time, you may experience a sense of calm or gain new perspectives.
I squeezed my eyes tightly shut as his voice came slow and steady through my headphones.
Even though it was almost a whisper, it drowned out the wind and traffic sounds.
I turned to hypnotherapy because I had reached a new level of generalized anxiety.
I dwelled on the past and had trouble breaking old habits.
I needed a true reset.
In the weeks following my first appointment, I almost automatically corrected negative self-talk and felt somewhat uplifted.
I started feeding my body more nutritious foods, drank more water, and restarted ayoga practice.
Was I doing these things just because I wanted to believe paying for hypnotherapy had been worth it?
I wanted to learn therapy worked during my second session.
Surprisingly, the science behind hypnotherapy is shockingly simple.
In the highly relaxed state of hypnosis, your subconscious is more open to suggestions.
I showed up for my second appointment sweaty and out of breath.
I had been running around the city doing errands, and this was my last stop for the day.
I worried I wasn’t calm enough and had already ruined the session.
But, as Rose reviewed the information I had provided, I relaxed.
Getting into a focused state was challenging at first.
I found my mind wandering as I listened to a rich description of a tropical beach and salt air.
I fought against my eyelids, which suddenly seemed to be straining to open themselves.
After about five minutes, it finally happened.
I was able to just let go.
It was almost like a gentle mental massage.
The visualization of the beach segued into verbiage about changes I desired, with many keywords repeated.
The suggestions made me feel relaxed but also energized with positivity.
However, I felt like I was playing along with the “hypnotic trance thing.”
I wasn’t asleep and was completely aware of my surroundings.
I could have opened my eyes and sat up at any moment.
But, Rose says that showing up well-rested andnotfalling asleep is actually crucial for a successful session.
I had been staying up late and always felt tired in the morning.
I found that hard to believe.
When it was time to open my eyes and get up from the chair, I felt happy.
If nothing else, I had done something positive for myself.
I was given audio files of affirmations to reinforce the session and started using them.
Do I believe I achieved a true trance-like state in my hypnosis sessions?
Would I try hypnotherapy again and recommend it to others?
Yes, I do.
Yes, I do.
Yes, I do.
“Other people might feel anxious or upset because underlying memories or feelings emerge as the process unfolds.
There is also the possibility of increased emotional alertness as deep-rooted issues are exposed, " Dr. Hafeez says.
“You’re programmingmeto programyou.”
Not all therapists will offer intake forms, but many will offer a consultation.
However, just because they are accredited does not necessarily mean they’re the right practitioner for you.
“Experience is important too,” Dr. Hafeez says.
Before committing to multiple sessions, ensure you feel comfortable with your therapist and their work.
Always double-check with your insurance company if you believe they cover hypnotherapy under certain conditions.
This allows patients to access and potentially change subconscious thoughts and behaviors.
Simply put, hypnosis is the procedure, and hypnotherapy is the practice of using the procedure therapeutically.
“Hypnosis means the kind of deliberate concentration and deep relaxation that make you incredibly open to input.
