Hypnosis
What it is and What it Does
Hypnosis is not some mystical procedure, but rather a systematic utilization of experiential learnings, that is, the extensive learnings acquired through the process of living itself. ~ Milton Erickson, M.D.
Hypnosis is a natural trance state of deep focused awareness, in which the subconscious is more readily accessible and open to suggestion. Introduced to the medical community in the mid 1700’s by Anton Mesmer, trance induction initially emphasized relaxation and enhanced rapport between doctor and patient.
The actual term ‘hypnosis’ was coined in the mid 1800’s by psychologist James Braid, who’s interest in mesmerism led him to carry out experiments and studies which legitimized hypnosis as a sound clinical technique.
By the late 1800’s a young Sigmund Freud and Pierre Janet, a pioneer in the treatment of traumatic memory and dissociation, were mentored by neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot who utilized hypnosis to treat hysteria. Both Freud and Janet went on to conceptualize hypnosis as a vehicle for communicating with the deeper subconscious mind.
Fast forward to the late 1940’s and 1950’s when a geographical shift in the study and…
