Learn the Truth About Hypnosis

What is hypnosis? Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness similar to the pre and post-sleep states. It’s when you are winding down from the day and drifting into your dream world. Everyone experiences this altered state or trance at least once a day. It usually happens many times a day while you’re absorbed in engaging activities, such as watching TV or reading.
During hypnosis, a relaxing CD with soothing, healing water sounds (the kind that helps you drift away from your day) may be used to set the stage for life improvements, such as quitting smoking. According to research, when brain waves are slowed down, the way we process information changes. We process from the “top-down” instead of from the “bottom-up.” This lets the subconscious mind accept the suggestions that allow you to make the desired changes.

The Practical Uses of Hypnosis

Hypnosis is possibly as old as mankind. The old myths and misconceptions about hypnosis have given way to proven, scientifically sound applications. Today, you can see hypnosis used in various fields, including medicine, dentistry, forensics, psychology, professional sports, the arts, and education.
Most people have a limited understanding of the positive results that can be achieved in a clinical hypnosis session. To dispel some of the myths, we provide the answers to the most frequently asked questions about hypnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does hypnosis work?
A: Our minds work on two levels - the conscious and the subconscious. We make decisions, think, and act with our conscious minds. The subconscious mind controls our habits. In the relaxed state known as hypnosis, we can communicate directly with the subconscious mind. This is why it is so quick and easy to change habits of a lifetime with hypnosis.
Q: Will hypnosis work for me?
A: Virtually anyone who is willing can be hypnotized. It is not recommended for anyone with a diagnosed severe psychological disorder. If you have been diagnosed with such a disorder a physician's referral may be required.
Q: How will I know if I am hypnotized?
A: Most people cannot tell the difference between the hypnotized and the waking states. Some people feel relaxed and lethargic and others feel a lightness. One thing that people do notice is an inexplicable change in their daily behaviors.
Q: Is hypnosis safe?
A: Hypnosis is completely safe. You are aware and in control at every moment and can terminate the session at any time. Hypnosis is not sleep, nor can you get “stuck” in a state of hypnosis. And you cannot be made to do something against your will. Hypnosis is a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable experience.
Q: How does hypnosis help me to kick the smoking habit?
A: Because smoking is a habit, it is controlled by the subconscious mind. Since hypnosis works directly with the subconscious, this is the only method that makes sense. We can help you effortlessly transition into the healthy lifestyle of a happy non-smoker.
Since 1992, according to New Scientist, it has been known that “Hypnosis is the most effective way of giving up smoking.” This quote was based upon a study cited within the Journal of Applied Psychology earlier that same year.
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Taken from the American Statesman, Austin, TX, March 17, 2010

ATLANTA — Quitting smoking can turn back time.
A year after kicking the habit, smokers’ arteries showed signs of reversing a problem that could have set the stage for heart disease, according to the first big study to test this.
The improvement came even though smokers gained an average of 9 pounds after they quit, researchers found. Their levels of so-called good cholesterol improved, too.
“A lot of people are afraid to quit smoking because they’re afraid to gain weight,” said the study’s leader, Dr. James Stein, a University of Wisconsin-Madison cardiologist.

Learn More

Watch this video to see how Matt Damon and other celebrities stop smoking with hypnosis.
The new research shows these people gain a health benefit even though they pick up pounds that hopefully can be shed once they’ve gotten used to not smoking, he said. Smoking is one of the top causes of heart disease, and about one-third of smoking-related deaths in the U.S. stem from heart disease.
A heart attack often motivates longtime smokers to give up the habit.
Results were published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. At Life Matters Hypnotherapy, our hypnosis sessions include language that address this concern.