Psychological and Physical Aspects of Hypnosis and the Role of Relaxation in Hypnotherapy

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“What is hypnosis?” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy
Hypnosis can be traced as far back as the ancient Egyptians where it was used as a means of curing illnesses through suggestion, it was known as the curing sleep. Hypnosis can be described as a sleep like trance and a state of heightened relaxation, that hypnotists today call a trance state this is where you are more susceptible to suggestion and influence. Hypnosis can be used in many ways such as stage entertainment, therapy and as a means of investigation. For example Milton Erickson who is known as the father of modern hypnosis said “You use hypnosis not as a cure but as a means of establishing a
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It is also common for stage hypnotists to get a physical reaction from clients while in a trance state such as making them play a fictional guitar. During the post hypnotic state you may notice physical differences from the suggestions used depending on the reason for hypnosis such as weight loss or heath improvements from not smoking. This may not be obvious straight away and may take several sessions to modify your behaviours. As you can see the physical aspect effects every part of the session and although hypnosis cannot physically harm you it is important to consider all the factors in order to successfully complete a session.
Other than the physical aspect is the physiological aspect. The psychological aspect is the most important as it is what a hypnotist or hypnotherapist relies on in order to successfully complete a session. The psychological aspect effects every part of the induction and both pre and post hypnotic state. Actual hypnotism itself is heavily driven by the psychological aspect as any kind of hypnotism is a form of suggestion and does not take a physical action, it solely relies on convincing your subconscious of modified behaviours or changes. Understanding the difference between your conscious mind and subconscious mind is important in understanding the physiological aspect of hypnosis. “Your subconscious mind is a
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