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Hypnosis--The Mind Body Connection

© Lina Jo Gilliland

For decades hypnosis has been looked upon as quackery and useless. Over the past decade, however, it has become an accepted tool in re-programing our thoughts and in changing our physical conditions.There are a lot of myths surrounding hypnosis and someone wishing to try it should probably consult a trained hypnotist for the beginning stages.

For our purposes we will cover self-hypnosis and a few simple starting exercises. A variety of techniques are used to induce a relaxed state of being in a person. When deep relaxation has been achieved, is when the mind is most open to suggestion. Hypnosis is now used at several major medical centers as well as alternative therapy medicine to help control pain and relieve symptoms of chronic illness. Self-hypnosis is taught and used in the treatment of asthma, cancer,severe burns, epilepsy and even dental work.

How self-hypnosis works. There is tons of literature on self-hypnosis and it almost all comes back to a few basic techniques that we will outline here.

1. Inducing a "trance like" state requires total relaxation.This is usually done by placing yourself in a peaceful environment, taking deep breaths and focusing on a phrase or image.

2. You will want to make a tape of your voice in a rythmic manner. When you talk use a quiet, calm voice and talk about your images or suggestions, being as specific as possible and speaking with total confidence at controlling the situation.

3. With practice will come clarity and involvement of all your other senses. Keep practicing until your images are clear.In time you will be able to direct your suggestions to specific parts.

4. Maintain control! If your mind drifts immediately draw it back. It is natural for this to happen but will destroy what you are trying to accomplish. Practice will make this automatic after a few weeks.

5. Imagine yourself doing something that reflects the state in wish you want to be. For example if driving is an issue, imagine your seizures being under control so you can drive to any place you want.

6. Repeat, repeat and repeat. Make your suggestions simple and try to repeat your tape at least 5 times per day.

7. It is important to set the right mood so start with an image of something positive in your life.

8. Don't forget to reward yourself verbally as much as possible after completeing your exercise.

Listen to your tape often and taper off when you see that your mind begins to automatically kick in without you having to think.Remeber to make a list of post-hypnotic suggestions, as they are very effective. They are powerful reinforcements.