Self-Hypnosis
Topic Overview
Hypnosis is a state of focused concentration during which you become less aware of your surroundings. Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis to treat physical or psychological conditions. It is thought that during a hypnotic state, or trance, people are better able to accept suggestions that can help change their behavior.
Studies show that techniques such as relaxation, hypnosis, and guided imagery can improve quality of life and also can ease the nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
Many people prefer self-hypnosis, because they are alone throughout the exercise and are in control of all suggestions made during the hypnotic trance. A qualified therapist can teach you how to hypnotize yourself. Some people are able to learn from books.
Self-hypnosis usually consists of writing a script to bring on a hypnotic trance, including suggestions to help with specific problems. Usually you record the script and then play the tape whenever you want to go into a hypnotic state.
Self-hypnosis is considered safe, even when done by inexperienced people. But it should not be done while you are driving a vehicle or in any situation where you need to be alert or be able to respond quickly.
Health Tools
Health Tools help you make wise health decisions or take action to improve your health.
Related Information
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christine R. Maldonado, PhD - Behavioral Health
Current as ofMay 3, 2017
- Top of Page
Next Section:
Health Tools
Previous Section:
Topic Overview- Top of Page
Next Section:
Related Information
Previous Section:
Health Tools- Top of Page
Next Section:
Credits
Previous Section:
Related Information- Top of Page
Current as of: May 3, 2017
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Christine R. Maldonado, PhD - Behavioral Health