What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis has proven to be one of the most effective means of bringing about deep, permanent changes. Hypnosis is a SAFE, natural response which allows you greater personal control. Your subconscious mind is powerful! Hypnosis is using your mind-body connection. Guided Imagery and Vizualization techniques closely relate to hypnosis.
History And Origins:
Use of hypnosis or trance healing began thousands of years ago. Hypnosis was popularized in the 19th century by physician Charles Mesmer and was used extensively as a surgical anesthetic until ether and chloroform were introduced in 1846 and 1847 (respectively). It was also used by field doctors in the American Civil War in place of chemical anesthetics. It is still in use today when patients have life-threatening allergies or other contraindications for chemical anesthetics.
A new application for hypnosis grew out of WWII, when it was used for the treatment of soldiers with “shell shock.” In the psychotherapy arena, Freud also made extensive use of hypnosis in his early career. This was the origin of the “therapist’s couch.”
In 1958, the American Medical Association officially accepted hypnosis when used by a qualified professional.
Research and use of this powerful technique continues today in many medical and psychological areas.
