Inspired Life Health Centre Toronto

The Mayo Clinic is one of the best known and most respected medical facilities in the world.  Perhaps because of this, they seem to be more objective than many others on the subject of alternative health care.

If you’re wondering about the pros and cons of hypnosis for yourself, check the Mayo’s Dec. 19/07 article:  Hypnosis: Another way to manage pain, kick bad habits.

Although the title suggests that pain management and smoking, over-eating or substance abuse cessation might be the main reasons to consider hypnosis, the article goes on to quote the US National Institutes of Health, which suggests a much broader and more varied menu:

• Relieve symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Reduce the intensity or frequency of headaches, including migraines
• Change negative behaviors, such as smoking, bed-wetting and overeating
• Reduce or eliminate fears, stress and anxiety
• Treat pain during childbirth and reduce labor time
• Control pain during dental and surgical procedures
• Lower blood pressure
• Control nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy
• Treat and ease the symptoms of asthma
• Hasten the healing of some skin diseases, including warts, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

The article also addresses some of the fearful myths about hypnosis – myths that have fermented over ages of traveling stage shows put on by performers, rather than healers.  Mayo Clinic staff explain clearly that “Legitimate clinical hypnotherapy practiced by a qualified professional is not the same process as that performed on stage.”

Here are some of the myths about hypnosis as explained by the staff at the Mayo.:

Myth: When you're under hypnosis, you surrender your free will.
Reality: Hypnosis is a heightened state of concentration and focused attention. When you're under hypnosis, you don't lose your personality, your free will or your personal strength.

Myth: Under hypnosis, you lose consciousness and have amnesia.
Reality: A small number of people who go into a very deep hypnotic state experience amnesia. However, most people remember everything that occurred under hypnosis.

Myth: You can be put under hypnosis without your consent.
Reality: Successful hypnosis depends on your willingness to experience it. Even with voluntary participation, not everyone can be led into a hypnotic state.

For the complete text of the article, visit the Mayo Clinic website:  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hypnosis/SA00084