Part of a plan for Stress Management may include
either hypnosis or self-hypnosis, as a way to reduce
and eliminate the symptoms of stress. A person under
hypnosis is experiencing a trance like state, which
allows them to enter into either the «theta» or
«delta» states of consciousness.
These states are the equivalent of either light or
deep sleep, and allow for the hypnotized person to
experience an «altered state» of consciousness.
Hypnosis can be effective in managing stress, whether
the state of hypnosis is assisted by a licensed
Hypno-therapist, or whether the state is induced by
the person entering into the hypnotized state.
Since many people are uncomfortable with the idea of
being hypnotized by someone else, self hypnosis is
often used as a part of a stress management plan.
In order for self hypnosis to take place the
individual must be in a comfortable position, and be
free from outside distractions. The individual should
begin with some relaxation techniques, such as deep
breathing, followed by releasing any tension in the
muscles, one at a time, beginning with the feet and
toes, and proceeding over the entire body.
When entering into a self hypnosis state the person is
simply allowing the subconscious mind to take over,
while the conscious mind enters into an «altered» or
«quiet» state of being.
In order for self hypnosis to be effective, the
conscious mind should impart a «purpose» or «intent»
to the subconscious, before the actual hypnotic state
is achieved.
It is also important to set a time limit on the
hypnotic state, generally 15 to 20 minutes. The
subconscious mind will respond to the suggestion, and
cause the individual to return to the normal state of
consciousness at the prescribed time.