As a new addition to my practice, I have recently introduced elements of hypnotherapy.
Many definitions of hypnotherapy and self-hypnosis have been attempted, none being universally accepted as accurate. Hypnosis is a natural phenomenon of our brain functioning that is best understood by being experienced. It is safe and pleasurable. It is happening to each one of us every so often: when daydreaming, getting completely absorbed in a novel or a movie, driving on a long, monotonous road, etc. Hypnosis is relaxing and it speaks to the deepest, most powerful, most creative and positive part of our mind. I am very excited to be able to explore hypnosis with my patients. The results are very good, and my patients enjoy it, while making huge strides of recovery and self-improvement.
Reprogramming one’s mind—changing a thought pattern from one causing suffering into one that brings peacefulness, happiness and positive mental energy--can be done in many ways, one of which is hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy can be done with a therapist or as self-hypnosis.
An important way of utilizing hypnotherapy is teaching my patients self-hypnosis. Self-hypnosis is a powerful tool to engage and reprogram the conscious and subconscious mind. Being able to do so has many practical applications: changing unhelpful thinking patterns, controlling chaotic emotions, maintaining focus on achieving a certain goal, and many other individually specific functions.
Hypnosis and self-hypnosis have many uses: to control pain mentally, to heal faster from surgery or injuries, to reduce anxiety and panic attacks, and for self-improvement (living a more balanced life, improving memory, improving the quality of our relationships, becoming a fearless public speaker, an inspired writer, etc.).
Books on hypnosis and self-hypnosis that my patients found useful:
Anxiety Relief: Guided Imagery Exercises to Soothe, Relax and Restore Balance (Guided Self-Healing Practices)—Martin Rossman, M.D.; Audio CD
Reduce Stress & Anxiety (Success World Self-Hypnosis Series)—David Illig; Audio CD
Through the Open Door: Secrets of Self-Hypnosis—Kevin Hogan; Hardcover
Sport hypnosis—Donald Liggett; Paperback
Hypnotize Yourself Out of Pain Now!: A Powerful User-friendly Program for Anyone Searching for Immediate Pain Relief (Book & CD)—Bruce Elmer
The Self-Hypnosis Home Study Course—Steven Gurgevich, Ph.D.; Audio CD
Stop Smoking Kit: Quit Smart Stop Smoking Guide, Hypnosis Quit Smoking Audio CD, and Cigarette Substitute—Robert H. Shipley
Hypnosis for Overcoming Anger (Hypnotic Empowerment Series for Self-Awakening)—Janet I. Decker; Audio CD
Hypnosis to Improve Memory and Recall (Hypnotic Empowerment Series for Self-Awakening)—Janet I. Decker; Audio CD
Self-Confidence—David Illig; Audio CD
Relax into Restful Sleep—Carolyn McManus; Audio CD
Guided Meditation: For Calmness, Awareness and Love—Bodhipaksa; Audio CD
Meditation for Relaxation and Stress Reduction—Joan Borysenko; Audio CD
