The Role of Relaxation in Hypnosis

306 Words2 Pages
“What is Hypnosis?” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy. Introduction In this essay I will discuss the psychological and physical aspects of this state and then discuss the role of Relaxation within the practise of hypnotherapy. What is Hypnosis? The word Hypnosis comes from the Greek work Hypnos for sleep. A hypnotic state is in fact a naturally occurring state of mind. It can be observed as a shift from consciousness the subconscious during automatic activities such as driving, a drift away from alertness. The word Hypnosis is the action of creating this state, usually to drive behaviour modification through post hypnotic suggestion. Examples of this applications are weight loss, smoking cessation, reduction of stress, removal of phobias. The hypnotic state was first observed by Leibeault and Benheim in France. It has long played a part in other cultures though. It has arguably been practised by Shamans and which doctors in ……….. In the 1700’s an Australian doctor, Franz Anton Mesmer recognised the phenomenon and started to work on Mesmerisation which was the forerunner of Mesmerisation. The word Hypnosis was finally coined by James Braid (1795 – 1860). Method of Hypnosis Although the history of Hypnosis is quite broad and its practise varied in terms of method there are some common factors…….. Describe the psychological change A description of the psychological change during the hypnotic state would include a loss of awareness of surroundings, narrowness of attention, increased suggestability and Heightened function of creative process (Hadley & Staudacher). Describe the Physical aspects Some commonly observed physical changes during the hypnotic state are a reduction of activity and energy output, rigidity or limpness in the muscles of the legs and arms. It
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