The Transformative Power of Hypnosis

Discover how hypnosis can complement your existing wellness practices and open new doors to transformation. Guest blog by Sara Rahn of Compassionate Healing: Holistic Mental Health Services. 

Contrary to popular entertainment portrayals, hypnosis isn't about mind control or performing onstage. Clinical hypnosis is a natural, focused state of attention where the conscious mind relaxeswhile the subconscious becomes more receptive to positive suggestion, or suggestions of change.In this state, which is referred to as the trance state, you remain aware and in control—youcannot be made to do anything against your values or wishes. This state of heightenedsuggestibility allows for transformative work that can address deeply rooted patterns and behaviors that mindfulness alone might take years to uncover. This is an incredibly powerful tool considering modern neuroscience research shows most brain activity- around 90-95%- is on a subconscious level.

The American Psychological Association and American Medical Association have recognized hypnotherapy as a valid practice since 1958, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has recommended it as an effective, noninvasive, none addictive treatment for chronic pain since 1995. The American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, founded by Milton Erickson, has been the accrediting body for the practice of hypnosis and has been certifying professionals since 1957.

Key Benefits of Hypnosis

• Reduced Anxiety and Stress
  Hypnosis naturally induces a profound relaxation response in the body, lowering cortisol levels and activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This physiological shift not only feels wonderful in the moment but teaches your nervous system how to return to this balanced state on its own. Most hypnosis techniques, overtime, can also be applied independently without the facilitation of a professional. It is the ultimate goal that these techniques can become life long integrative tools.

• Breaking Unwanted Habits
  From smoking cessation to weight management, hypnosis has shown impressive results in helping people overcome stubborn habits. By addressing the underlying subconscious patterns and emotional connections to these behaviors, hypnosis creates space for new, healthier choices. While in the trance state, the professional will aid in modifying the perception of the unwanted behavior and replace it with the desired change.

• Enhanced Performance
  Whether in sports, public speaking, or creative pursuits, hypnosis can help remove mental blocks and improve performance by aligning your subconscious beliefs with your conscious goals. During the trance state, the facilitator will address several blocks to success, including negative self-perception, preemptive nerves and ruminating thoughts. Hypnosis can also improve a persons visualization skills, facilitating the manifestation of a particular goal.

• Pain Management
  Studies have consistently shown hypnosis to be effective in managing both acute and chronic pain, sometimes reducing the need for medication and improving quality of life. Hypnosis works by influencing the brain's processing of pain signals, allowing individuals to dissociate from the sensation and experience it as less severe. Both the Veterans Health Administration and the Arthritis Foundation endorse hypnosis in the treatment of chronic pain.

The Hypnosis Experience

Clinical hypnosis should be provided by a licensed professional with appropriate credentialing. Like any comprehensive therapeutic intervention, hypnosis begins with gathering thorough background information from the client. The intake process includes discussion of relevant medical and psychological elements. This preparation allows the hypnotherapist to create a tailored plan designed to meet your specific needs.

During a hypnosis session, you'll remain comfortably aware throughout the experience. Most clients prefer to recline or lie down. The session begins with an induction phase, where the therapist guides you to focus on calming sensations. After your eyes comfortably close, a deeper sense of calm and peace is encouraged.

Clients often describe the resulting trance state as feeling similar to the twilight phase right before falling asleep. While in this state, the hypnotherapist explores the subconscious mind through various techniques. This process may include asking questions that elicit and uncover subconscious elements. Throughout the trance state, the hypnotherapist uses suggestive language and explores different aspects of the client's mind and body in alignment with their therapeutic goals. People typically feel deeply relaxed yet mentally alert—similar to that dreamy state just before falling asleep or just after waking. Many clients describe the experience as profoundly peaceful, refreshing, and insightful.

Taking the Next Step

If you've tried other modalities and other approaches but still struggle with certain patterns or issues, hypnosis might be the missing piece in your wellness journey. It offers a direct route to the subconscious mind where lasting change begins.

To learn more about hypnosis services and how they can support your personal wellness goals, or to schedule your first appointment, visit sararahn.com. Sara Rahn, a licensed therapist, has recently teamed up with MKE MindBody Wellness to offer hypnosis as a part of a comprehensive package. 

Managing Social Anxiety

How do we step back into a world after over a year of physical disconnection?

We’re starting to see businesses open their doors, employees have the opportunity to go back into the office after WFH, indoor dining is welcomed again, masks optional in some communities, social gatherings planned for summertime…

What’s ok… what’s not ok?

There can become a point at which anxiety makes people so uncomfortable when they are out of their ‘controlled’ (or safe) space — like what homes have been the last year. If you’re experiencing social anxiety, you may start to feel physically uncomfortable or sick, like something is crawling under your own skin. It’s easy to feel out-of-control as things start opening up — so much so that you would rather stay at home.

A socially anxious person may feel nervous, like they’re being judged or doing something judge-able. It’s important to stay grounded in knowing ourselves. Operate out of your values and allow grace, compassion, and forgiveness into your heart. What is your intention?

Ease into it:

Stepping back into the world can feel overwhelming. New boundaries may need to be imagined. If it is possible, remember that it is not required to grow quickly or all at once. If we go too quickly, it’s easy to feel rattled.

Talk about it:

Have a conversation with your loved ones and peers about your anxiety. Let them know you’re not ready — rather than feeling like you’re being pushed, ask for their support.

Practice visualizations:

Prepare yourself to re-enter the world by closing your eyes and mentally rehearsing the scenario.

What does the environment look like? How many people are going to be there? What’s it going to feel like? How can I communicate to the people I am with if I start to feel any discomfort?

Acknowledge your emotions:

Note what you’re experiencing. A lot has happened to us as individuals and as communities this year, so what feels right for you right now?

How is your breath? Are you uncomfortable? Stressed? Fearful? Angry? Scared? Panicked? Over-stimulated?

Small wins:

Safety should never be compromised, but a simple win could look like taking a walk with a friend who you haven’t seen in a while or try picking up your coffee curb-side from your favorite cafe. As more and more people become optimistic about having a ‘semi-normal’ summer again, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with weekend plans starting to build up. If it is possible, try not to feel obligated to attend every social gathering if you’re not sure how you’re feeling. Keep checking in with yourself and re-evaluate your needs.

Contemplate:

How am I doing?

Do I need more time for myself to process?

Which emotions am I struggling with?

Am I intentionally exchanging comfortability, disconnection, and convenience over social anxiety?

Do I feel pressure from society?

Have I given myself the opportunity to establish my community over the last year? (community could look like your family, kids, work or gym friends, etc…)

What are some boundaries I can set for myself?

We will be rediscovering our community again. As we slowly integrate back into the world, let's do so mindfully. Not quicker, but more consciously. Consider yourself and what you need before shifting your social patterns.