Hypnosis is an extremely
pleasant and relaxed state of mind. It is the dream like state you
experience just before falling asleep or just as you are waking up. You already
experience natural hypnosis many times a day, when day dreaming, watching TV or
driving for example. A qualified hypnotherapist can help you to access this
state of mind in a safe way, deliberately and with awareness.
What is hypnotherapy?
Your subconscious mind is
responsible for all your autonomic processes (eg: breathing, digestion, healing).
It is also where all of your knowledge, intelligence, creativity, imagination
and emotions are stored, so it really is the majority of your mind! We can use
hypnosis to communicate with the subconscious mind, and issue beneficial
instructions or “suggestions” which promote positive change.
How does it work?
Recent
fMRI brain-scan studies have shown reduced activity under hypnosis in areas of
the frontal cortex which are involved with comparing incoming information and
current behaviours with existing beliefs and expectations. This reduction in
'critical evaluation' allows the individual to more readily accept new
suggestions and behaviour patterns for therapeutic benefit.
Will I be in control?
Absolutely. Although physically
and mentally relaxed you remain aware and in control throughout the experience.
You can hear what is happening around you and can bring yourself out of
hypnosis, should you wish, at any time. You cannot be made to do anything
against your moral or ethical beliefs. This is why a hypnotherapist will
prefer to use the term “suggestions” instead of “instructions”.
What about stage hypnosis?
Volunteers who appear in stage
hypnosis performances make a conscious decision to be a part of the show and
are a small minority picked from a large audience. They have chosen to accept
hypnotic suggestions for the purpose of entertaining the audience. Stage
hypnosis is purely for entertainment and can be dangerous without adequate
training of the hypnotist. Hypnotherapy is when a client chooses to accept
hypnotic suggestions from a qualified therapist for the purpose of improving
health and well-being.
What if I’m not ‘susceptible’?
Anyone who wants to be hypnotised
can be. It is such a relaxing, pleasant and safe experience you may be surprised
at how natural it feels. Everyone perceives hypnosis differently, but it is the
subsequent rewarding changes and benefits that are most noticeable.
(Some
mental health conditions are not compatible with hypnosis; if in doubt, contact Hypnotic Loopor seek advice from your GP.)
What is a hypnotic loop?
A hypnotic loop or ‘progressive loop’ is just one of the
language tools used in modern hypnotherapy.A positive suggestion (eg: more confidence) is linked to and encourages
another one (eg: more mental calmness), which in turn endorses and promotes the
first one. It works like a vicious circle, but in a positive and progressive
way!
Powerful words can release seratonin
Think of your favourite food and you salivate. Words and
suggestions can produce physical responses. Visualisation builds
neuro-networks in the brain. A mental rehearsal results in a better
performance.
