Hypnotherapy is the method of introducing therapeutic mental suggestions when you are in a receptive and relaxed state. Only light trances are provoked during the process and hence you will fully aware of the things happening. The aim of hypnotherapy is to gain control over physical or mental processes. Hypnosis – sleep of the nervous system is the state in which the therapy is carried out. A person is said to be hypnotized when he was brought under a sleep like condition. A hypnotized person displays inquisitive personality and proclivity when compared to a normal person. Hypnotherapy is useful in modifying a person’s emotional and physical behavior, attitude towards life and also to bring peace and harmony in one’s state of mind. Also, it is useful for pain management, stress release, dealing with nervousness and dysfunctional habits. Hypnotherapy is normally carried out with a qualified hypnotherapist in salutary surroundings and the therapist will have one-to-one interaction with the hypnotized person.

Hypnotherapy was used from pre-historic times and the evidence can be seen in the sleep temples and unfamiliar creeds of ancient Graeco- Roman civilizations. The trance-inducing rites performed by various ancient tribes and hypnotism have similar effects on the induced persons.  In the 18^th century, many professionals tried various methods of hypnotism in which they combined mesmerism to treat animals. But, during 1840’s, James Braid, a Scottish physician introduced the concept of hypnotism which is entirely opposite to the concept followed in mesmerism. The new method was based on physiological and psychological means and hence it did not become popular in the UK. But, his ideas were accepted in France where his ideas were developed into a refined psychological treatment. During the 19^th century, Jean-Martin Charcot who was called the father of contemporary neurology developed the hypnotic process with more sophisticated practices.

In 1920, Emile Coue, a medical assistant proposed a two-way alternative hypnotic therapy named as ‘conscious autosuggestion’ which became very popular during that period. Charcot’s ideas of hyptonism were debated and developed by many societies throughout the world. But, Bernheim’s school effectively developed Charcot’s ideas and hence had become the forerunner of current psychological hypnotism. Sigmund Freud was considered a promoter of hypnotherapy. He went to France and studied hypnosis under the guidance of Charcot at the Sapetriere. Also, he took training at Bernheim’s Nancy School and wrote many books on hypnotherapy. He then began applying hypnotherapy to a group of people during 1890. Then, he started his free association technique, said to have much resemblance to the current hypnotic methods.

Hypnotherapy is carried out with a person in a serene atmosphere and one-to-one interaction is given much importance during the entire procedure. The person to be hypnotized is asked to lie or sit on a comfortable chair by the therapist. Then the attention of the person is shifted away from exterior events or mental pressure and they were made to focus on their breathing and gradually they will be carried out to a more relaxed state. In this relaxed state, suggestions will be given by the therapist as per the need of the person. Generally, hypnotherapy is used for self development, to come out of any bad habits, to reduced stress and anxiety etc. Also, self-hypnosis exercises will be taught to use them at home. Normally, the self-hypnosis process includes relaxation, deepening of your thoughts, positive suggestions and again bringing yourself to a fully alert state.

Hypnosis is practiced by some dentists and doctors and also by professional hypnotherapists. Unlike other therapists who register clients into enduring therapy that can last for months or even years, a hypnotherpaist often receives customers for just a few sessions. So, they need to advertise and promote their services to reach new customers continuously. Health insurance companies generally do not include hypnotherapy under health cover, so people in lower income groups may not choose to be treated with this process. A well-known hypnotherapist will generally have more clients than others as the past record of therapists is usually considered by people before undergoing treatments.

Hypnotherapy is used to help overcome anxiety, stress, insomnia, phobias and panic attacks as well as to treat headaches, pain and irritable bowel problems. It is also sometimes used as a weight loss support or to treat addictions and also in the form of analgesia. Hypnosis has more effect on children than adults. Studies revealed that some diseases like asthma, nausea and skin problems can be cured with hypnosis. Hypnosis works in a relaxed state because at that time the heart rate, breathing and metabolism slows down and hence the brain waves changes. Also, the human mind becomes more receptive to suggestions at this state and in some way able to wield control over general involuntary processes.

Hypnotherapy is normally considered safe in the hands of trained practitioners. But, recalling the past memories during hypnotic procedures is not considered good as that will create psychological or emotional distress. Some people have a deep trance state and hence when they underwent hypnotic procedures they may fail to recall the events. Therapists normally do not diagnose any disease, so a doctor should be consulted in case of any medical conditions. Hypnotherapy is not appropriate for children aged below five or any person with a rigorous mental illness. Also, people with epilepsy are not given hypnotic treatment. Even in one sitting, the difference in the state of mind can be observed. Normally, six to ten treatments at regular intervals are effective. There are a variety of training courses and associations for hypnotherapy. So, anyone can call themselves a therapist. The UK Confederation of Hypnotherapy is a large organisation for hypnotherapy professionals and many independent associations are the members of this body. The General Hypnotherapy register is also maintained by General Hypnotherapy Standards Council to unite all the trained therapists. Although there are risks involved in the hypnotherapy procedures, it can be considered a valuable tool for stress relief and pain management and several other conditions. But, it has to be carried out by a qualified and trained practitioner to achieve the desired result.