Thursday, November 20, 2008

Hypnosis and Hypnotism - A Definition

By Mark Allen

Hypnosis and hypnotism: what exactly is it? The word itself is derived from "hypnos", a Greek word meaning sleep. The most commonly used definition is "a trance-like state of heightened suggestibility".

Though the ideas and concepts behind it are over a thousand of years old, science and medicine have come to accept and recognize it only in the last 50 years or so.

Scientists and researchers who study this field now recognize that this trance like state has a number of special qualities. When someone is in this state, the areas of their mind that are usually out of reach, now become accessible. Specifically, hypnosis offers direct access into the subconscious mind.

Hypnosis is frequently used to treat a wide range of psychological problems and disorders, as an effective and safe means of controlling habits, and also to improve an individuals attitudes and mental health. Hypnotherapy, or hypnosis therapy, is a very effective tool.

Weight loss and over eating, smoking cessation, anger management, recovery from surgery and medical conditions, overcoming fear, even drug and alcohol abuse are being effectively addressed through these methods.

Self-hypnosis is one part of the field that has experienced explosive growth recently, due at least partly to the Internet. With thousands of resources available online, including workbooks & guides, training and exercises, and particularly audio recordings, more and more people are turning to it for self-improvement. There are thousands of websites where you can now download specific self hypnosis audio recordings, with the numbers increasing every day.

Hypnotherapy homestudy course is another growing area. For many people who might not seek out a hypnotist out of distrust or stigma, this type of self-help is more accessible and acceptable.

Hypnosis today has become a vibrant and growing field. Whether you are looking to increase your understanding in these areas, or have just begun exploring, websites like Hypnosis-X.info offer up a wealth of information. - 16004

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