The introduction of hypnotism in the West was first introduced in the 18th Century by Austrian Doctor Franz Anton Mesmer. His work involved using magnets that he believed could restore a proper balance of ‘magnetic fluid’ between the individual and the universe. He claimed this could cure any illness and developed a technique where patients sat around a tub of water containing iron filings while soft music played. Brandishing an iron rod he performed what would later be termed ‘mesmerism’. A number of his patients claimed to be healed after this process. However, modern theories suggest these cures were caused by the hypnotic state induced by the dim lighting, the music and his charismatic personality.
Hypnotic State
Hypnotherapy as we know it today was developed by American psychologist Milton Erickson in the 1950s. Since then hypnotherapy has become more respectable with some medical authorities even suggesting it be used in medical student training programmes. A hypnotic state is similar to day-dreaming, and breathing and heartbeat slow down to induce a state of deep relaxation.
At this point the person’s subconscious becomes receptive to suggestions by the hypnotist. It is at this point that the hypnotist introduces ideas to the person that may help with a specific problem such as smoking or overeating. This can also be effective on a physical level and can ease pain. Even surgical operations can even be carried out while patients are in a trance and this method has been used in childbirth and dentistry. Mental and emotional problems also respond well to hypnotherapy.
Alcoholism, Eating Disorders and Depression
According to the Hypnotherapy Association UK, the range of conditions that can be treated by hypnotherapy include: alcoholism, MS (Multiple Sclerosis), anger management, obsessive compulsive disorder, asthma, panic attacks, confidence/motivation/self esteem problems, phobias, depression, psoriasis, drug addiction, eating disorders and eczema. However, anyone suffering from epilepsy, schizophrenia or clinical depression, should consult his doctor first.
Some people are nervous about hypnotic treatment but no one can be hypnotised unless they are willing to allow it and a hypnotised person is unlikely to do anything contrary to their normal behaviour patterns. Some cynics claim they are too ‘strong minded’ but in fact 90 percent of the British population is susceptible to hypnosis, according to The National Council for Hypnotherapists. But anyone can resist entering a hypnotic state if they are unwilling to submit. Single-minded individuals who find it easy to concentrate often make the best subjects.
Relaxing
The hypnotist does not have magical powers to cure instantly so much depends on the rapport between practitioner and client. A hypnotic trance is different for everybody but the subject is always in control. Those who have gone through it describe it as pleasant, relaxing and tranquil. People under hypnosis are aware of all physical sensations around them and may even notice sounds they would not otherwise be aware of. After a traumatic incident, such as a robbery, the subject can often remember car numbers and other minor details of the event with amazing accuracy.
Hypnotherapy is best used as a brief strategic therapy aimed specifically at finding a resolution to a particular problem quickly, safely and efficiently. A skilled practitioner will be able to ascertain how much regression is needed to get to the root of the problem or whether to use future progression techniques.
