| What is hypnosis? | |
| Clinical hypnosis is believed to be an
"altered state of consciousness wherein the person’s focus of attention is
concentrated or narrowed, probably involving heightened right brain functioning" (D.
Cory Hammond, PhD). It has also been referred to as "controlled imagination"
(Herbert Spiegel, MD). The person is deeply relaxed and the unconscious mind is highly
focused and open to suggestion. Consequently, the person has the ability to access more of
his/her mind and imagination. As a result, hypnosis is the ultimate experience of
self-control. Hypnosis is a normal and naturally occurring event in peoples lives. Nearly everyone experiences a hypnotic "trance". In fact, people go in and out of trance throughout the day. Do you remember watching a television program and was unaware that someone entered the room? Do you remember a time when you were driving and suddenly realize that you do not remember driving several blocks? That is a hypnotic trance. You just did not have a name for it until now. In fact, all hypnosis is self hypnosis. The hypnotherapist assists you to enter into a hypnotic state, but, you are the one facilitating your trance. And, you can learn to do it on your own. |