Hypnosis
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Hypnosis, originating from the Greek word hypnos "to sleep", has been used for thousands of years in societies across the globe. Ancient records of hypnosis-like practices have been found in Egypt, Britain, Greece, Babylon, Scandinavia, Africa, India, China, and America. Modern hypnosis founded by an Austrian doctor named Franz Anton Mesmer (hence the term mesmerize ). He believed that illness was the result of an imbalance of the magnetic energy fields of the body. Dr. Mesmer believed that a hypnotist's "magnetism" could be transferred to a patient.
While hypnotism has received its share of skepticism, some tangible benefits can be achieved through hypnosis. In 1995, the National Institutes of Health published endorsement for hypnosis for chronic pain, including the pain associated with cancer, surgery, back pain, irritable bowel syndrome, headache, burn injury, and more. The way that hypnosis works to change behavior or treat a disease is not well understood by western science.
Several clinical studies have been conducted to measure the effects of hypnosis on certain ailments. Studies show that hypnosis can reduce anxiety in patients prior to a medical or dental procedure. Hypnosis is often beneficial as an adjunct to cognitive behavior therapy. There are a number of potential hypnosis benefits which have not been well studied. Hypnosis may be beneficial for: labor, nausea and vomiting, insomnia, drug and alcohol addiction, nicotine addiction, erectile dysfunction, allergy, weight control, bedwetting, eating disorders, stomach ulcers, heartburn, dyspepsia, menopausal symptoms, and more.
Hypnosis involves three phases: pre-suggestion, suggestion, and post-suggestion. During the pre-suggestion phase of hypnosis distraction, imagery, and relaxation are used to focus one's attention. The goal is to achieve a state of mind which is relaxed and susceptible to suggestion. During the suggestion phase of hypnosis, specific goals, questions, or memories will be explored. New thoughts and behaviors may be introduced during this phase. The last phase of hypnosis occurs after the person returns to a normal state and the new behaviors or thoughts manifest.
While hypnosis may provide benefit in certain cases, it is not without risk. Some research has shown that hypnosis may worsen psychological conditions like schizophrenia, multiple personality disorder, and manic depression. People at risk of seizures are recommended against receiving hypnosis. People with post-traumatic stress disorder may experience a swell of upsetting memories. If you are interested in hypnosis, you may wish to speak with your health care provider. There are currently no government standards to practice hypnosis. Some individuals are more susceptible to hypnosis and the results of treatment can vary.
