What is hypnosis ?

Hypnosis is based on the idea that we all have an unconscious part of our mind that can be accessed through hypnosis. When we are in hypnosis, we are in a state of relaxation and deep concentration, which enables us to be more receptive to the hypnotherapist's suggestions.

It's important to note that hypnosis is not a state of loss of control, and that those undergoing it remain conscious and can refuse to follow suggestions if they wish.

Hypnosis is a practice that has existed for millennia in many cultures around the world. It has been used for therapeutic, spiritual and even entertainment purposes.

Modern hypnosis was developed in the 18th century by the French physician Franz Anton Mesmer, who definedcrited hypnosis as the result of the influence of "magnetic fluids" on the human body. However, his theories were rejected by the scientific community of the time and he was eventually ostracized.

In the 19th century, another French doctor, Jean-Martin Charcot, used hypnosis to treat hysteria and other mental disorders. However, he was criticized for abusing hypnosis and manipulating his patients.

It was only in the 20th century that hypnosis was truly accepted as a legitimate medical and therapeutic practice. Pioneers such as Milton H. Erickson, M.D., helped develop new approaches to hypnosis that are still used today.

Hypnosis can be beneficial for a number of mental and physical disorders. Here are just a few examples of disorders for which hypnosis can be useful :

1. Sleep disorders : Hypnosis can help improve sleep quality by reducing insomnia and helping to relax before bedtime.
2. Stress and anxiety : Hypnosis can help reduce stress and anxiety by helping you relax and focus on positive thoughts.
3. Pain : Hypnosis can be used to relieve pain in a variety of ways, including helping to reduce the perception of pain and improving pain management.
4. Addiction : Hypnosis can be useful in the treatment of addiction by helping to change behaviors and attitudes related to addiction.
5. Eating disorders : Hypnosis can be useful in the treatment of eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia by helping to change attitudes and behaviors related to food.

It is important to note that hypnosis should not be used as the sole form of treatment, and must be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy to be effective.

Here's an example of what a hypnosis session might look like :

1. First, the hypnotherapist will explain the process of hypnosis and answer any questions the patient may have.
2. The patient will be invited to lie comfortably on a chair or bed and close his or her eyes. The hypnotherapist will speak to them in a calm, soothing voice, using phrases such as "relax" and "let your mind go".
3. The hypnotherapist will use various relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, to help the patient relax and reach a state of hypnotic trance.
4. Once the patient is in trance, the hypnotherapist can begin to make suggestions designed to help the patient achieve his or her therapeutic goals. For example, if the patient wishes to stop smoking, the hypnotherapist might suggest that he or she no longer wants to smoke, or that he or she no longer enjoys the taste of cigarettes.
5. After making the necessary suggestions, the hypnotherapist will bring the patient back to the waking state, using phrases such as "when I count to three, you'll wake up feeling refreshed".
6. Finally, the hypnotherapist will discuss with the patient what happened during the session and give him/her exercises to do at home to reinforce the effects of hypnosis.

It's important to note that each hypnosis session is unique and can vary according to the patient's needs and goals.

There are several ways to find a qualified hypnotist :

1. Ask a doctor or other mental health professional : your doctor or therapist can recommend a qualified hypnotist in your area.
2. Check with professional organizations : There are several professional organizations that bring together qualified hypnotists, such as the Association française d'hypnose et de thérapie brève (AFHTB) or the International Society of Hypnosis (ISH). You can consult their websites to find a hypnotist near you.
3. Ask friends or family : if someone you know has already had a positive experience with a hypnotist, it might be worth contacting them.

It's important to take the time to research and find a qualified, experienced hypnotist. Be sure to check the hypnotist's credentials and qualifications before making an appointment.

Hypnosis can be an effective option to help some people quit smoking. It works by using hypnotic suggestions to change attitudes and behaviors related to smoking, and to help reduce cravings.

It's important to note that hypnosis doesn't work for everyone, and must be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment to be effective. If you wish to use hypnosis to stop smoking, it is advisable to work with a qualified and experienced hypnotist.

It's also important to remember that hypnosis does not replace other forms of treatment, such as nicotine patches or stop-smoking medication. It's advisable to talk to your doctor before deciding which approach is best for you.

Hypnosis can be used in surgery as an alternative form of sedation, or as a means of helping to reduce pain and anxiety during and after surgery. It is often used in conjunction with other forms of sedation, such as medication, to help reduce necessary doses and potential side effects.

During hypnosis in the operating room, the hypnotherapist uses hypnotic techniques to help the patient relax and focus on positive thoughts. He or she may also use hypnotic suggestions to help reduce the perception of pain and improve post-operative recovery.

It is important to note that hypnosis cannot be used as the sole form of sedation in the operating room, and must be used in conjunction with other forms of sedation. It is not suitable for all patients, and should be discussed with the doctor prior to surgery.

Hypnosis can be used to treat various phobias, such as fear of spiders, airplanes or heights. It works by using hypnotic suggestions to change phobia-related attitudes and behaviors, and to help reduce anxiety and fear.

During the hypnosis session for phobias, the hypnotherapist will use hypnotic techniques to help the patient relax and focus on positive thoughts. He or she may also use visualizations and breathing exercises to help reduce anxiety and improve stress management.

It's important to note that hypnosis cannot be used as the sole form of phobia treatment, and must be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Working with a qualified and experienced hypnotist is recommended for best results.

There is no single answer to the question of how many hypnosis sessions are needed to stop smoking, as this depends on many factors such as the severity of the tobacco addiction, the patient's motivation and receptivity to hypnosis. In general, it may take several hypnosis sessions to achieve the best results.

It is advisable to discuss your goals and needs with your hypnotist to determine the number of sessions required. In general, a hypnosis session can last from 30 minutes to 1 hour, and at least three sessions are recommended for best results. However, some people may require more sessions to achieve their goals.

Hypnosis is generally considered a safe practice when carried out by a qualified and experienced professional. It should not be used as the sole form of treatment, and should not be used to treat serious mental disorders such as schizophrenia or psychosis.

It's important to note that hypnosis can sometimes cause side effects such as headaches, fatigue or temporary mood swings. However, these side effects are generally mild and disappear quickly.

It is advisable to work with a qualified and experienced hypnotist to minimize the risk of side effects and achieve the best results. It's also important to discuss your health history and medications with your hypnotist before beginning a hypnosis session.

There are certain situations in which hypnosis should not be used. Here are a few examples of contraindications to hypnosis :

1. Personality disorders : Hypnosis may not be recommended for people suffering from personality disorders such as schizophrenia or psychosis, as it can aggravate symptoms.
2. Mood disorder : Hypnosis may not be recommended for people with mood disorders such as depression or severe anxiety, as it may worsen symptoms.
3. Children and adolescents : Hypnosis may not be recommended for children and adolescents, as they may have difficulty understanding the process and following the hypnotherapist's instructions.
4. People under the influence of drugs or alcohol : Hypnosis should not be used on people under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as they may have difficulty staying focused and following the hypnotherapist's instructions.

It is important to discuss your health history and medications with your hypnotherapist before beginning a hypnosis session.