For me hypnosis was a game changer. I was able to ease the pain of bad feeling emotions and make changes in my behavior that have lead to better rest and a less stressful, more fulfilling and heart led life. I’m not the only one with this experience with hypnosis. Studies show that hypnosis appears to reduce perceived hot flashes and may have additional benefits such as reduced anxiety and depression, and improved sleep.
By Janet Williams, MD, Ob/Gyn
A few years ago I was having a very difficult time and was in a pretty dark place emotionally. I was mourning the loss of several unsuccessful infertility treatments, struggling in my relationship, extremely stressed and overwhelmed with my work as an Ob/Gyn doctor. I was also having difficulty with libido, sleep and painful intimacy. Working with a therapist helped but one of the most rapid tools I used that helped me to truly turn the corner was hypnosis.
I’ve always been curious about the mind body connection and found it fascinating just how much we can change our bodies, emotions and behaviors with our mind. If you have ever wondered how hypnosis and hypnotherapy work then this blog post is for you.
Here, I’ll give you a little bit of the history of hypnosis, explore what goes on during a hypnosis session, discuss who can benefit from it. I’ll also debunk a few of the most common myths about hypnosis and give you a few tips on how to prepare for a good session.
What is Hypnosis and How Can It Help?
Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness that has been used in various forms for centuries. The modern practice of hypnosis is often referred to as “hypnotherapy” or “clinical hypnosis”. It involves using suggestions while in a relaxed state of mind to help clients make positive and often transformational changes in their lives. I use a number of gentle techniques to smoothly guide my clients into a relaxed state of mind that allows them to become more open to suggestion. The results can be life changing. Hypnosis can be used to help manage intimacy issues, manage menopause and perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes, manage mood issues, improve confidence, ease anxiety symptoms, manage depression, PTSD, phobias, pain management, trauma, stress management, improve sleep, smoking cessation, weight loss/management issues and so much more.
History of Hypnosis: A Brief Overview
The practice of inducing hypnotic states has been around since ancient times when shamans would use it in healing rituals. Throughout history it has also been used as a form of entertainment with famous figures such as Franz Mesmer popularizing its use in the 18th century. However it was only in the 20th century that hypnotism became recognized as a legitimate therapeutic tool which led to modern-day clinical hypnotherapy being developed by practitioners.
Benefits of Hypnosis for Physical and Mental Health
Today there is increasing evidence that suggests that hypnotherapy can be beneficial for both physical and mental health issues . Studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing anxiety levels , improving sleep quality , aiding with pain management , helping with smoking cessation , alleviating symptoms associated with IBS , treating addiction , helping with weight loss/management issues , improving self-confidence & esteem , treating phobias & fear related conditions , reducing stress levels & assisting in relaxation.
Preparing For A Hypnosis Session
Preparing for your hypnosis session is an essential part of getting the most out of it. To ensure that you receive the full benefits, it is important to be comfortable both physically and mentally before your session. When selecting what to wear, comfortable clothing is best; loose fitting clothes can also help you relax further during the session. Arriving well-rested is recommended as it can make it easier to enter a comfortable hypnosis induction without falling asleep. Even though the goal is to get you into a relaxed state it doesn’t work if you fall asleep. If possible try to avoid any caffeine several hours prior to your appointment. Caffeine may cause restlessness interfering with success in the session. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be ready for a great hypnosis experience.
Hypnosis Myths
Hypnosis has been subject to much misconstruing and misconception over the years, creating a variety of myths about what hypnosis is and how it works. My own dad who is a retired medical professional called me a “Obia Doctor” when I told him about my professional hypnosis training. Just to clarify an obia or obeah is a monster in West African folklore. It is described as being a massive animal that witches send into villages to kidnap young girls and wear their skin for a coat…Yeah, thanks dad.
Some of the most common myths about hypnosis is that it is a form of mind control, that it puts you to sleep, or makes you suddenly reveal secrets. However, these are all misconceptions; hypnosis is actually an altered state of focus and concentration that can help you tap into certain thought patterns more easily in order to make change. Hypnosis does not work on smart people disproportionately – it can help anyone who allows their attention to be absorbed into what they’re focusing on. Hypnosis can also help gain clarity around personal goals as well as deeper understanding of one’s self. Understanding the truth behind hypnosis can help set clear expectations and allow for improved results during sessions with hypnotists.
The Results
For me hypnosis was a game changer. I was able to ease the pain of bad feeling emotions and make changes in my behavior that have lead to better rest and a less stressful, more fulfilling and heart led life. I’m not the only one with this experience with hypnosis. Studies show that hypnosis appears to reduce perceived hot flashes and may have additional benefits such as reduced anxiety and depression, and improved sleep.
Wrap Up
There are many potential benefits associated with undergoing hypnosis. Ultimately it depends on your individual circumstance but it just might be the thing you need to make an important positive change in your intimate life. I offer advanced one-on-one sessions tailored specifically towards women over 40 experiencing sex and libido problems, body changes, perimenopause and menopause associated issues, stress, overwhelm, heartbreak, loss, managing difficult past experiences and so much more – to learn more book a consultation with me here I’m looking forward to helping you change your intimate life for the better!
