Many people see hypnosis as a process involving a comfortable couch and a trained therapist. Popular culture has even led to some of us incorrectly associating hypnotherapy with swinging clocks, nefarious practitioners and a middle-aged German psychologist, sporting white hair and a moustache leaning in while uttering the words: “You are getting very sleepy.” Hypnosis is anything but the incorrect misconceptions attached to it. It is a recognised therapeutic treatment capable of assessing and successfully dealing with a myriad of psychological ailments, challenges and issues.

But did you know that you can learn to induce a self-hypnotic state, safely and by yourself? Also called ‘auto-hypnosis,’ self-hypnosis is a technique practised by both experienced professionals and beginners all over the world. Self-hypnosis allows you to achieve almost the same outcomes as working with a therapist and can serve as a helpful skill when on the road or facing stressful situations.

An Overview of Self-hypnosis

Self-hypnosis essentially refers to the practice of self-inducing a genuine hypnotic state to enhance the effectiveness of suggestion and affirmations. The subject plays the role of both therapist and patient, following a process of finding a comfortable position, deepening and slowing the breathing, counting and then using words and suggestions to produce a state of deep relaxation.

Almost everybody has the ability to learn how to self-hypnotize, since it is the subject’s own mind doing the work. Once mastered, this allows people to practice hypnotic relaxation, stress relief, and even pain treatment while alone and without the presence of a guide.

Does It Really Work?

Yes. The goals and objectives of self-hypnosis are no different from regular hypnosis involving a therapist or guide. While guided hypnosis has the added dimension of allowing a therapist to alter and revise the trajectory of a session, or to introduce alternate affirmations, self-hypnosis is still an effective and proven hypnotherapy technique.

So how exactly are we able to induce a hypnotic state, practice healing techniques and then completely wake up? Well, hypnotic states have been divided into three general stages:

• Beta Stage – The early, or ‘first’ stage of hypnosis, during the Beta stage, the mind is very much awake, settling in as it begins to focus on the task at hand.
• Alpha stage – Once the mind begins to relax and quieten, you enter the Alpha stage. Here, a meditative state of mind slows down thought processes and prepares the mind for hypnosis.
• Theta Stage – In this third phase, the mind is in a completely relaxed, hypnotic state. It has begun producing theta waves, placing the brain in a state that is fully open to suggestion.

Once in a self-induced, hypnotic state, learned suggestions and affirmations are repeated by the patient, reinforcing positive thoughts, addressing stress and pursuing the ultimate hypnotherapy goal.

Is It Safe?

Many people wonder, “will I be able to exit my self-induced hypnosis and wake myself up afterwards?” Self-hypnosis is a practice that takes time to learn. Part of this process involves techniques and triggers that allow you to actively remove yourself from a state of deep relaxation, and regain an awareness of your surroundings. Minutes after waking, you’ll be 100% functional and ready to go.

In keeping with the tenants of hypnotherapy, you’ll learn to gently bring yourself out of a session, thank yourself for the journey and return to your normal day-to-day activities.

The Same Benefits as Regular Hypnosis

Self-hypnosis offers the same benefits as normal hypnotherapy, and is great for people who:

• Are uncomfortable with allowing someone else to hypnotize them
• Want to feel safer in the comfort of their own home
• May not have access to a hypnotherapist
• May experience social anxiety or embarrassment

Whichever method you choose, the secrets and skills of hypnotherapy can only be shared by a professional hypnotherapist. Linda and Jan have dedicated their lives to enriching the lives of others. Hypnotherapy is a complex science, rooted in thousands of years of practice, refinement and skill.

Whatever the case, If you would like to learn Self-Hypnosis or you’re in need of help extra help to address anxiety, negative feelings or overcome a trauma or addiction, speak to Linda or Jan at Hypnocare – one of Perth’s most trusted Hypnotherapy clinic we’re here to help.