Hypnotherapy is increasingly used to relieve stress and anxiety, as people look for natural, non intrusive alternatives to medication and surgery.  Stress and anxiety are a normal part of our natural defences, and enable us to deal with demanding and taxing situations.  This may be in any part of our lives including in the home, family life or in the work place.  Chronic stress and anxiety are both considered medical conditions, due to the potential for them to lead to further health complications.

What is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a form of psychotherapy that aims to make use of the untapped potential of the unconscious mind to effect real world changes.  This is primarily achieved through the use of hypnosis, which is an altered state of consciousness or trance.  This state can be used to relieve a range of conditions and ailments including, smoking, weight issues, poor sleep, concentration, pain, phobias and stress.  Most hypnotherapists will use their voice to induce a state of hypnosis, though other more traditional techniques – such as a swinging object are effective.  Though anyone can be hypnotised, not all hypnotherapists will be able to induce any given individual. It is not possible to become trapped in a trance, though you may feel the need to sleep if you are especially relaxed. Hypnosis is only used for therapeutic effect, and its use for entertainment is generally frowned upon.  

Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety often lead to one feeling overwhelmed, which is when the body’s natural defences are triggered, and the hormone cortisol is released into the blood.  This has the effect of raising heart and breathing rates – in preparation for the stress of the situation at hand.     If not properly managed this scenario can lead to a perpetual feeling of pressure or nervous tension, which can be exhausting for sufferers.  Addictions, phobias, poor work performance and poor sleep patterns can result. Both conditions can be better managed by including the following coping strategies into your life:

• Plenty of exercise
• Healthy diet and eating
• Ample sleep
• Sufficient rest and relaxation time; and by
• Limiting stress or stressful situations in your life 
• Other disciplines such as yoga, meditation and hypnotherapy are increasingly utilised alongside these techniques to aid recovery and healing.

How Can Hypnotherapy Help Stress and Anxiety?

Hypnotherapy often leads to a very relaxed state being reached, so is potentially beneficial in relieving stress and anxiety.

Find out about other effective natural treatments for stress and anxiety.