Self-Hypnosis

Self-hypnosis is the process of taking oneself safely into a state of deep subconscious relaxation, and accepting words or suggestions spoken or created by oneself (or recorded by a clinical hypnotist or hypnotherapist). It is the communication between the conscious, process mind to the subconscious, creative mind, which creates desirable automatic behaviour

It is the method of communication that induces a trance or a trance-like state. Hypnosis can be conducted by one individual addressing another, or it may be conducted with the self (self-hypnosis). Trance is a naturally occurring state in which one's attention is narrowly focused and relatively free of distractions. The attention may be focused either internally (on thoughts-internal self-talk or images or both) or externally (on a task, a book, or a movie, for example). The focus of attention is so narrow that other stimuli in the environment are ignored or blocked out of conscious awareness for a time. Examples of trance states are daydreaming and some forms of meditation.

As an adjunct to psychotherapy, hypnosis or self hypnosis can help you enter a relaxed, comfortable, trance state for obtaining specific therapeutic outcomes. With clinical hypnosis, the therapist can make suggestions designed to help you formulate specific internal processes (feelings, memories, images and internal self-talk) that will lead to mutually agreed upon outcomes.

There is no "right" way to experience trance. One person may experience it as a deep, heavy restful feeling, while another may experience it as a light, floating sensation. Some people hear every word spoken by the therapist, while others allow their minds to drift to other thoughts. Some experience vivid imagery, while others do not. Some people remember the suggestions they hear, and some do not. Every person's experience of hypnosis is unique.

Hypnosis cannot cause anyone to do something against their will or that contradicts their values. First, a hypnotherapist is ethically required to make only those suggestions that support agreed-upon outcomes. Second, clients are not receptive to suggestions that go against their morals or values - because receptivity is one of the ingredients of success in hypnosis.