Clinical Hypnosis

History of Hypnosis

Hypnotic or suggestive therapy is the oldest of all healing techniques. From the Sleep Temples of Egypt through the histories of ancient Greece and Rome some form of hypnosis has always been an intimate part of all cultures.

In the Middle Ages, healing through touch and prayer became the major way of treating disease. In the 18th Century – when it was believed that illness was caused by the magnetic influence of astral bodies – Franz Anton Mesmer would induce people into a trance like state by what he (erroneously) believed to be Animal Magnetism. Although Mesmerism was soon discredited, it continued to be used even after the death of Mesmer as it often produced “miracle” cures. When James Braid re-examined Mesmerism in the 19th Century he discovered that simple suggestion was just as effective as Mesmerism or any other method to induce trance-like states. It was he, who coined the phrase Hypnosis and for a time hypnosis became a scientific technique with scientific respectability.

In the early part of the 20th Century hypnosis was used almost exclusively by stage hypnotists, thereby projecting a hopelessly distorted view of this very powerful therapeutic tool. However, in 1955 the British Medical Association endorsed the practice of hypnosis in Medical School education, since when it has become a valuable addition to conventional medical treatment.

What Is Hypnosis?

The actual experience of being hypnotized is very difficult to describe, neither asleep nor awake. All hypnotic states are characterized by a tremendously pleasant state of relaxation, an altered state of consciousness into which individuals allow themselves to enter so that desired, beneficial suggestions may be given directly to the unconscious mind. Thus, hypnosis is a natural, effective way of making contact with the inner (unconscious) self, a source of many of our problems as well as a tremendous reservoir of unrecognized potential, strength and knowledge, i.e. the forgotten assets.

Nobody can ever be hypnotized against their will and, even when hypnotized, people can still reject any of the suggestions given if they are not appropriate.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy means the use of hypnosis for the treatment and relief of a variety of somatic and psychological symptoms.

Hypnotherapy is completely natural and safe and there are no harmful side effects. When administered by a professionally trained and skilled Hypnotherapist, the benefits are long lasting and often permanent.

The Clinical Applications of Hypnosis

Modern Hypnotherapists use Hypnosis not only for medical purposes but also as an aid for the resolution of many problems of psychological origins.

It is estimated that approximately 85% of people of all age groups will readily respond to clinical Hypnotherapy. It is often successful when other, more conventional methods of treatment have failed.

Listed below are some of the conditions for which Hypnotherapy is indicated as a practical treatment:

• Breaking unwanted habits (e.g. smoking, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, nocturnal enuresis, nail biting, stuttering, tricotalamania)

• Obtaining relief often remission from symptoms such as: breathing problems, stomach and nervous problems.

• Skin Problems and nervous rashes.

• Female problems such as period pains.

• Pain control for minor surgery, dentistry, arthritic pain and general neuromuscular aches and pains.

• Hypnosis can free the individual from phobias, compulsions, emotional problems, sleeping problems, inhibitions, guilt feelings, jealousy and many of the worries and anxieties of everyday life.

• The use of Self-Hypnosis will help prevent stress and tensions caused by modern day living, reducing the risk of heart diseases.

• Hypnotherapy for effective weight-control, increasing work/study/sporting performance, improving concentration and memory, developing the imagination, boosting self-confidence, and achieving more of the potential which we each possess.

• Hypnotherapy can also help you gain insight into present difficulties and past events, whilst discovering the negative beliefs that shape present life decisions and actions; create new beliefs that reflect the true inner self; increase creativity and clarity of thought, which in turn deepens intuition and inner peace.

• Hypnotherapy is a great tool to increase self-esteem and optimism and can enable a person to heal physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually integrating mind, body and spirit.

Hypnotherapy offers a deeply relaxing, totally safe and highly effective method of dealing with many of today`s problems. It is a positive and enjoyable way of helping to bring about changes in your life. It can help with a whole range of conditions.

This natural and powerful therapy enables you to break away from negative thought patterns and so improve the quality of your life.

For Appointments or further information please telephone Lorraine Ireland on 01384 – 878264.