...Freud also used the Hypnosis method. Freud worked with Charcot in France in 1885, he was influenced by the therapeutic potentiality of hypnosis, extending neurotic disorders - freudpage.info. Hypnosis is the condition of human consciousness, which includes a lowered peripheral awareness, a central point of attention and an increased amount that can be contained in a response. This is important to understand because at some time during the duration of the hypnosis, humans are said to have an increased focus and concentration. Also theories explain that the hypnosis split into two groups altered state theory and non-state theory. Altered state theory shows the hypnosis as an alteration of a state of mind, noticed as the level of awareness compared...
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...better understanding about where hypnosis has come from and the journey it has taken to become more recognised and accepted for its use in therapy. I find hypnosis intriguing due to its simplicity yet effectiveness to create change. I love how you can use hypnosis on yourself and others for a wide range of issues or just to relax. It’s easy to see how the general perception of hypnosis is misconstrued due to practitioners of the past, the media and how hypnosis for entertainment has depicted it. Explain the state of hypnosis and its history ‘Hypnosis’ was first coined by James Braid in 1840 after the name of the Greek god of sleep, Hypnos. Despite what its name suggests, it is not to go to ‘Sleep’ but a process that allows the subject to access their subconscious mind more easily. It increases their suggestibility and is achieved through internalising the senses using the imagination and imagery. The first note worthy practitioner of hypnotic phenomena was Franz Anton Mesmer in 1770. Influenced by his studies and colleagues at that time, he believed that human health was affected by forces that were exerted by other planets through an invisible fluid that flowed through each person. If the fluid got blocked or was not aligned in a person then they became ill. He believed that this ‘fluid’ could be affected by using magnets and so to re- align its flow. He labelled his theory ‘Animal Magnetism’. He eventually changed...
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...Introduction Hypnosis comes from the Greek work “Hypnos” which means sleep , trance like state and is termed as a state of mental and physical relaxation enabling someone to access the subconscious mind, which is the part of the mind that expresses the way people automatically feel, think and act. The hypnosis theory has proven to effectively access the subconscious mind, and determine the conflicts in the mind causing the desired change either in behaviour, emotionally, physically and psychologically. Hypnosis has become essential in the clinical aspects, mainly in the pain management with positive results . This is due to the success of many laboratory studies and research, and the ability to observe the behaviour of the client, reinforcing the theory of hypnosis. HISTORY Modern Hypnosis began with Franz Anton Mesmer (1734-1815) an Austrian doctor who used magnets and the view of transferring fluid in order to cure illness without medicine or surgery. As there was no scientific evidence to his work, Mesmer’s believed that it was magnetism, rather than the patient's own mind that determined the outcome. His first attempt to test his theory and practice in 1774 was with Franziska Osterlin and in 1777 he restored a blind girl’s sight. His method of fluid transfer was disregarded and declared as individual fantasy by King Louis in 1785. However, Mesmer’s theory had stirred interest even after he died, a result of which saw other theories emerge. James Braid...
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...and psychologically different from deep sleep. Lucid dream is a still different mode of functioning where the dreamer has the awareness that he is dreaming. This state is said to be conducive for gaining insight into and awareness of the unconscious and is a technique in mystic training. 3. Hypnosis This state is characterized by increased suggestibility and surrender of one's will. HYPNOSIS Hypnosis is a mental state or imaginative role-enactment it is usually induced by a procedure known as a hypnotic induction, which is commonly composed of a long series of preliminary instructions and suggestions. Hypnotic suggestions may be delivered by a hypnotist in the presence of the subject, or may be self-administered ("self-suggestion" or "autosuggestion"). The use of hypnotism for therapeutic purposes is referred to as "hypnotherapy", while its use as a form of entertainment for an audience is known as "stage hypnosis". Hypnosis has often been carved into two separate elements - 'Trance' and Suggestion Figure: Separation of hypnotic 'trance' and suggestion can be a useful way of thinking about the effects of hypnosis THEORIES OF HYPNOSIS There are three major theories of hypnosis used for research – the Social Cognitive perspective, Neo...
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...of hypnosis around. It was during the 18th century that hypnosis was being understood and gaining acceptance as a psychological aspect. When we think of hypnosis we cannot agree on a fixed definition as there are many theories which have their own explanations and opinions on what hypnosis means. It is also difficult to come to a definite definition as patients /subjects that have hypnosis are never going to have the same experience as another. The simplest yet fairly definition we have is “hypnosis is a complex phenomenon, the coming together of a number of psychological processes. It involves selective attention that is, the subject’s attention is focused on a limited range of stimuli, usually internal, such as feelings and imagery. It involves relaxation: almost invariably for clinical purposes (unless he or she is, say, experiencing some arousing imagery) is both mentally and physically relaxed” Heap and Dryden (1991:2). There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to hypnosis and what people think or believe about it and a majority or nearly all of them are not true. Hypnosis is not a person with special powers, or that we start relying on it and certainly not bad for your health, these are just a few examples of myths we are made to believe. We cannot understand the truth till we read and understand the history furthermore the influential depths of hypnotherapy. This essay will explore the question what hypnosis is and by looking into the history of hypnosis we can...
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...2,147 words Hypnosis as it is practised refers to an interaction between two people, one of whom is identified as the hypnotist, the other as the subject/client, (P2 Hypnotherapy handbook, by Heap and Dryden). Hypnosis is a process in which psychological, mental emotions, reactions and behaviour are changed to improve health and positive wellbeing. During this essay I will talk about the history and what the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis are. Further to that I will be discussing the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy, why some of us are more susceptible and how hypnosis has been used in medicine, as well as the comparisons to hypnosis today. We have all been in a hypnotic state however most do not notice it because, at the time, it seemed a natural state of mind. However, the hypnotic state is natural for all humans and many animals. Neurologists believe that the left side of the brain is where the logical control centre of the brain exists (conscious mind), and the right side of the brain controls creativity (subconscious mind)(.website ,Hynosis.me.uk, hypnosis how does it work, clinical hypnosis and memory: guidelines for clinicians and forensic hypnosis by D. Corydon Hammond) This supports the idea that under hypnosis the conscious mind takes a back seat and the sub conscious mind takes over, e.g. when you are driving yourself along a familiar road past your exit, or you suddenly became aware of yourself behind the wheel and wondered where you were going...
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...“What is Hypnosis?” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in Hypnotherapy The following addresses the question of what hypnosis is by exploring its origins and the evolution to modern day practice. The psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis will then be discussed along with the notable components of suggestion and trance. The vital role of relaxation is also pointed to. Hypnosis is a psychological phenomenon; a natural state of selective, focused attention, and even though it is natural, it remains one of the most fascinating phenomena of the human mind. There is much disagreement and misunderstanding on the subject and there are many different theories and definitions surrounding it. Before discussing the modern theory of hypnosis, it is important to understand where this phenomena has come from. Its earliest existence was found among shamans or witch doctors as they were more commonly known. Shaman would follow strict practices which allowed them to have a strong focus, and these were often accompanied with monotonous and rhythmic chants or drum beats for example. This allowed their subconscious mind to focus and seek out the soul of the patient to heal them. Mesmer (1733-1815) recognised this healing practice and incorporated into his theory of animal magnetism. He believed that a cosmic fluid existed in inanimate objects which was transferred into patients to heal them. Mesmer literally mesmerised...
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...In this essay I will be explaining “what is hypnosis” by looking through various literature sources, internet sources and by using my own knowledge, I will include a brief history of hypnosis to aid this. I will then go on to describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis, followed by discussing the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy. Hypnosis is a state of mind achieved using a set of techniques. The hypnotic state is natural for all human beings. Hypnosis enhances an individual’s concentration which increases their responsiveness to suggestion; this is due to when being in a hypnotic state the subconscious is the one that is more responsive to suggestion than when you are in a fully conscious state. The suggestion will travel directly to the subconscious where it will help the individual to make the necessary changes in their thought patterns, behaviours or physiological state. The history of hypnosis goes back as far as ancient Egypt, Australian aborigines, North American Indians and Hindu cultures; history indicates that every culture has used hypnosis in one form or another (Chrysalis 2010). In the 1700’s, an Austrian doctor called Franz Anton Mesmer recognised ancient healing techniques and used them in his theories. These theories included animal magnetism and a belief that cosmic fluid could be stored in inanimate objects such as magnets, and transferred to patients to cue them of any illness...
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...What is Hypnotherapy? Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in Hypnotherapy. This essay will offer a definition of hypnotherapy and then proceed into a brief history of hypnosis. Afterwards, the aim is to describe what psychological and physical aspects appear within hypnosis including a few examples for illustration. The latter part of this essay will focus on the role of relaxation within hypnotherapy, finishing with an overall conclusion. To answer what is Hypnotherapy, firstly the term ‘hypnosis’ must be understood. Hypnosis is “a different state of consciousness which you can naturally enter so that, for therapeutic purposes (hypnotherapy), beneficial corrections may be given directly to your unconscious mind”, according to the BSCH at http://BSCH.org.uk/hypnotherapy.htm (2007). Therefore, Hypnotherapy appears to be the therapeutic work done between the client and the Hypnotherapist in order for advantageous changes to occur within the clients (unconscious) mind. Ancient history highlights Hypnosis used by the Egyptians through pictorial evidence of people standing over another making what is assumed hypnotic hand motions, but interpretation of such is difficult, (Waterfield 2004). Modern history starts with Franz Anton Mesmer’s (1733-1815) early notions on ‘universal gravitational fluid’ whereby the planets influence fluid inside the human body. Initial healing used magnets owing Mesmer to change his terminology...
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...What is Hypnosis? Throughout history there have been, and are still many different perspectives and opinions of what is hypnosis, its uses and functions. In order to clearly understand what hypnosis is, one must look firstly into the history of hypnosis and the different concepts which have emerged over the years, from as early as 50,000AD to the modern day, throughout different cultures. After looking at the history of hypnosis, it will go on to describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis, giving reference to Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta waves, the four different brain waves, indicating an individuals mental state, which brain waves comes in to play during hypnosis and its relevance. Graham Wicks’ (1985 Toronto’s Annual International Society of Hypnosis convention) condensed concepts from previous various writers’ concepts, The multistate phenomenon, five states of hypnotic features, will be addressed, (Karle & Boys) as will Edmond Jacobson (1929) on the effects of muscle contractions between patients and the benefits of relaxation leading to the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy today and the use of progressive muscle relaxation techniques. Hypnosis goes back thousands of years to the Greeks and Egyptians. They used to put people in a trance-like state, to bring on dreams, so they could help with peoples problems. Hypnosis was also found amongst Shaman’s, which were also known as ‘witchdoctors’. Shamans were strongly focussed with a powerful process...
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...Brian Paterson Word Count 2038 “What is Hypnosis?” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in Hypnotherapy There are many definitions of Hypnosis, these range from a form of sleep; a form of dissociation; an artificial induced trance state resembling sleep; a means of communication between the conscious mind and the subconscious mind; a state of passive suggestibility with selective attention and reduced planning function. With no concise definition from the last three centuries, it would be appropriate to look at a brief history of hypnosis. Hypnotic trance like states have been utilised for thousands of years in many cultures and religions, and continue to be seen today. We will start with looking at Franz Anton Mesmer, who is commonly referred to as the grandfather of hypnosis. Mesmer Studied Theology, but went on to study Law and then medicine. He gained respect in his professional duties and the Viennese society, whilst working at the Vienna school. Mesmer believed that magnetism formed the basis of all successful hypnosis. It was in 1974 on Mesmer’s first patient, where he applied magnets to the patient. Believing that the human body was analogous to magnets and could therefore be used to heal. Mesmer moved to France and alienated many universities and scholars...
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...What is hypnosis? Aileen McCartney Hypnotherapy and Counselling Skills – Year One - Module One MAIDS1A 12 Word Count: 1984 Tutor: Karen Martin Hypnosis is a well known subject to most people, very often through the drama of the stage or television hypnotist. However, the hypnotic trance is a natural phenomenon that most people will have experienced personally, whether aware of it at the time or not. An example of this might be driving a car along a regular route and arriving at the destination with no memory of the journey, having performed the activity safely and reliably while in another sense being quite detached from the experience. This altered level of consciousness is the starting point for the hypnotic process through an induction which focuses on relaxation, inner experiences, feelings and imagery (Heap & Naish, 2012: 7). It is generally accepted that hypnosis is a different experience to that of being awake or being asleep but debate remains over its true nature within academic and scientific circles (Karle & Boys, 2010:14). This essay will discuss the nature of hypnosis, focusing on the psychological and physical aspects while touching on the role of relaxation. Hypnosis is a complex psychological phenomenon and one which is difficult to find an agreed definition for. Indeed the American Psychological Association definition of hypnosis in 2003 is almost 300 words long but centres around hypnosis being a procedure of suggestions where...
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...What is Hypnosis? Definition: Hypnos was the Greek god of sleep and his name gives us the words 'hypnosis' (a particular mental state) 'hypnotism' and 'hypnotherapy' (related processes). It also gives us the familiar pharmacological term 'hypnotic' for a drug used to induce sleep. Hypnosis is "a special psychological state with certain physiological attributes, resembling sleep only superficially and marked by a functioning of the individual at a level of awareness other than the ordinary conscious state." One theory suggests that hypnosis is a mental state (Encyclopaedia Britannica 2004), while another theory links hypnosis to imaginative role-enactment. Hypnosis is in fact, a communication between the conscious and subconscious mind. It is a natural state of mind experienced as a trance. How hypnosis manifests itself can be very different from one individual to another. History: Hypnotic states of consciousness are said to be the many ways we attempt to understand ourselves and the world around us. Hypnosis was/is used as a purpose of healing and is part of almost every culture. The first recordings were some 5000 years ago in ancient Egypt – Saqqara. Here laid an important healing centre where ailing persons were led to the temple of sleep, a journey in search of a healing from the gods. This involved the ingestion of herbs, reciting hours of chants/prayers. The individual was then led to this special chamber to sleep and await a dream; that would...
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...Course Code: BIRMI 1A15 Unit 1 – Basic Hypnotherapy Techniques (Ofqual Ref. M/505/8186) Homework Assignment – Journal Entry Module 1 (1 – 1.1) Explain the state of hypnosis. Looking back, it is clear now that hypnosis has been around for many centuries and the use of hypnotic states can be traced back to Shamans or Witch Doctors. In the 1700’s Franz Anton Mesmer produced his theory of “animal magnetism” in which he believed healing forces could be transferred through “cosmic fluid” there is no evidence to support the transfer of the healing energies devised by Mesmer but his success rate was high which lead to his patients being described as “mesmerized” and mesmerism is an early forerunner for modern day hypnosis. Many theories utilising a hypnotic state then followed but it was not until an English physician called James Braid (1795-1860) giving mesmerism a scientific explanation of a “nervous sleep” introducing the word hypnosis derived from the Greek word for sleep Hypnos. Many theories evolved from this view and hypnosis eventually gained acceptance as a naturally occurring phenomenon. In the 1950’s hypnosis began a renaissance as it became recognized for the therapeutic potential in the fields of behavior modification and healing. Hypnosis can be categorised as a trance state or altered level of consciousness. Our minds are split between our conscious and subconscious states and we are able to switch between the two often unaided and without realising. A good...
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...Word Count: 2024 “What is Hypnosis” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in Hypnotherapy Introduction My essay will firstly attempt to look at the history of hypnosis and then look at what hypnosis is and also what hypnosis is not. My essay will then try to describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and finally I will discuss the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy and whether relaxation is necessary for hypnotherapy to take place. History of hypnosis Hypnosis dates back hundreds of years and maybe portrayed as far back as the Old Testament. There is also evidence of hypnosis in Ancient Egypt over 3,000 years ago. There are two main leading men in the study of hypnosis, Franz Anton Mesmer (1734 – 1815) and Milton Erickson (1901 – 1980). Franz Anton Mesmer was considered to be the father of hypnosis. He is remembered for the term “mesmerism”, but this name didn’t stick and it was later changed to hypnosis. Milton Erickson is known as the father of modern hypnosis and is thought to have pioneered the art of suggestions in hypnosis. Milton Erickson developed many tips and techniques in hypnosis that were very different from what was commonly practiced. Milton Erickson maintained that a trance like state was very common, it is quite normal to become so immersed in an everyday activity that people go into a trance like state, and this is so common that most people do not recognise this as a hypnotic...
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