Taking the mystery out of hypnosis

Why, oh why did movie makers have to show hypnosis to be something so mysterious, so controlling and even dangerous?  What a pity they gave this completely wrong impression as they sadly discouraged thousands of people from the benefit of this natural and safe occurrence.

Hypnosis is a simple phenomenon that we all naturally experience many times throughout the day for short periods of time.
The brain is a habit-forming structure and will automatically choose thoughts that require least effort and that are the most familiar. The science of neuroplasticity teaches us that the brain is indeed ‘plastic’ and that the brain can learn, unlearn and relearn.

We have five brain wave frequencies – Beta, Alpha, Theta, Delta and Gamma. Each frequency is measured in cycles per second (Hz) and has its own set of characteristics that represent specific levels of brain activity and states of consciousness. The two states that are significant for changing behaviour are Alpha and Theta.
We go into the alpha state many times a day – when we are daydreaming, when we are thinking of something creative, when we go to sleep. Hypnotherapists are able to gently guide clients into a prolonged state of the alpha wave rhythms, so that they stay in this creative, inventive, positive state for a longer period of time. From alpha you relax even deeper into theta. Theta Brain waves are present when you are in a deep state of relaxation, meditation and light sleep, including the REM dream state. You are at your most optimal range for visualising and re programming your mind when you are on the Alpha and Theta borders (7Hz to 8Hz). Part of my role as your hypnotherapist is to ensure you reach a deep state of relaxation where you are accessing the Theta and Alpha brain waves. During this time old negative memories are easily accessed and processed for exactly what they are – an old memory that is no longer needed in our present. With the guidance of the therapist, we are also able to acknowledge ways of thinking that will be healthier, more productive and more effective for our current lifestyle.
Some people say they ‘don’t believe’ in hypnosis and are skeptical of its efficacy. I think a better term would be to say they don’t understand hypnosis. Because to be skeptical would be to be skeptical of the power of your own brain. Your own brain is a magnificently designed, powerful structure that you can choose to disregard or choose to enhance. It is your brain that has the control, the power, the choice….not mine. My role is to guide you into that creative state while you learn for yourself how best to live your most effective life.

So forget those bad movies, you will not lose control, you will not expose hidden secrets….you will feel joyful, positive and rejuvenated, that’s a promise!