Hypnosis or hypnotherapy: giving the subconscious mind space

The concept of hypnotherapy—often referred to simply as “hypnotherapy”—triggers a range of emotions in us, from skepticism to unease to fascination with the unknown. Yet more and more people have recognized the benefits of this treatment and are now reaping its positive effects. They are the best proof that this ancient technique can work. We’d like to help you better understand hypnotherapy, which creates space for our subconscious mind.

The origins of hypnosis lie in Greek mythology. Hypnos = the god of sleep. He watches over the sleep of others. His son, Morpheus, on the other hand, is the god of dreams.

The Definition of Hypnotherapy

Hypnosis performed by specialized therapists or doctors differs greatly from the hypnosis demonstrated by magicians or similar performers on stage. Therapeutic/medical hypnosis involves an altered state of consciousness, similar to dreaming. It addresses the subconscious mind—the soul. If the subconscious mind is out of balance, the underlying causes can be identified here, which are essential for the healing process. During hypnosis, the patient is in a reduced state of wakefulness, induced by the therapist’s relaxation techniques.

How does hypnosis work?

First of all, a quiet and comfortable environment is helpful for being able to “let go”—to let go through the therapist’s soothing words. The therapist’s most important tool is his voice. He uses it to guide participants into a relaxed state of hypnosis. In addition, he incorporates visualization and body awareness exercises into his speech, allowing participants to get closer and closer to their subconscious.

For this to succeed, mutual trust and the ability to let go are essential. Only then can you forget the world around you, and the usual whirlwind of thoughts falls silent. This state is also called hyperconcentration; the focus is entirely on the subconscious and the information it reveals to us. In this way, we can identify inconsistencies that underlie worries, fears, and other mental or even physical ailments. Now is the time to eliminate these and restore balance to the subconscious mind.

Hypnosis is a relaxed waking state!

Contrary to what some people believe, you remain fully conscious during hypnosis. You can leave the session at any time and remain in control of yourself. The therapist merely helps you enter the hypnotic state; however, he or she cannot fully control you. The therapist guides you on your journey to your subconscious, creates the necessary conditions, helps you formulate and select your questions, and guides you through the session. That alone is the therapist’s role.

What is hypnotherapy used for?

Hypnotherapy can help with many conditions and is often used in combination with conventional medicine. The list of applications is long, and we have compiled the most important ones:

• Stress relief—we’re often unaware of what triggers it
• Overcoming Fears and Compulsions
• During important moments in life (exams, childbirth, weddings)
• Overcoming Sleep Disorders – When Thoughts Keep Us Awake
• Quitting smoking or other addictions
• Coping with Trauma – Processing Tragic Experiences
• In cases of sexual dysfunction or infertility
• As an adjunct to the treatment of psychosomatic problems (eating disorders, skin conditions)
• For relief from chronic pain
• Mental health conditions such as depression, phobias, and neuroses

Is one hypnotherapy session enough?

Even if you feel better after just one session, it’s advisable to undergo several treatments. That’s because it’s not always possible to enter a hypnotic state and resolve all issues at the drop of a hat. If you don’t see any improvement after a few sessions, hypnotherapy may not be the right approach for you. A reputable therapist will address this openly.

What is the difference between a hypnotist and a hypnotherapist?

Although both can put us into a hypnotic state, they operate in completely different ways.
The hypnotist does not pursue therapeutic goals but rather showcases his ability. We’re all familiar with the images from the media of people behaving bizarrely on stage under the hypnotist’s direction.
The hypnotherapist, on the other hand, is a practitioner trained and specialized in hypnosis who helps clients heal themselves, explore their inner selves, and restore their balance.

How do you find the right hypnotherapist?

Unfortunately, there is currently no officially recognized training program for hypnotherapists. This is true of several areas of alternative treatment methods and “professions.” However, this could change at any time, as the therapy is becoming increasingly popular, especially in clinics and hospitals.

The following criteria can help you find a reputable therapist:

• Can he provide a certificate showing that he has completed at least 200 hours of instruction at a reputable institution?
• What is the therapist's reputation? Are there any testimonials or reviews?
• Does your doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, or neurologist offer hypnotherapy? It has been incorporated into the curriculum of some degree programs.
• Could her doctor perhaps recommend a reputable and competent therapist?

A preliminary meeting can help you gauge whether you click with the therapist and build trust. If you have even the slightest doubt, you should continue your search, as the session is unlikely to be successful.

Which hypnosis chair would you recommend?

During hypnosis, participants should relax. This is best achieved in the right atmosphere and a comfortable setting. Our LuftiKus, the Alpha Techno FX-2, is an example of an ideal hypnosis chair. Its successful design combines comfort and relaxation with functionality.

Thanks to the zero-gravity feature, the participant not only glides into a comfortable position but, hopefully, also drifts gently into their subconscious. The wide seats allow for use regardless of the participant’s size.

The benefits for the practitioner include the ease of maintenance, cleaning, and disinfection of the chairs.

What happens during a hypnotherapy session?

A session typically lasts between 45 minutes and one hour, depending on the therapist’s approach. Once the participant has settled into a comfortable position, the therapist begins to guide them into a hypnotic state using their voice and relaxation exercises. Beforehand, a discussion should take place to clarify what the participant hopes to achieve and which questions they would like answered. The therapist should also briefly explain the procedure. After the treatment or at the beginning of the follow-up session, the results are reviewed and analyzed together.

How much does a hypnosis session cost?

Prices may vary and also differ by region. However, they generally range from €45 to €85. The therapist sets the price, and you shouldn't hesitate to ask about it in advance.

Are there any risks associated with hypnosis?

The risk lies with the person, not the method. If the therapist is inadequately trained, they cannot respond appropriately to the participant and their problems. If the tool of hypnosis is in the wrong hands, it can be dangerous and may cause the symptoms to worsen rather than improve. So be sure to consider the criteria mentioned above when making your choice!