The medical power of hypnosis

BBC
20-05-2022
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The medical power of hypnosis

Summary: Hypnosis, once regarded as a stage magician’s trick, is now emerging as a potent medical treatment. Dr. David Spiegel, a pioneer in clinical hypnosis, recounts an early encounter with a wheezing asthma patient. Through hypnosis, he eased her symptoms, sparking his lifelong interest in this field. Hypnotic suggestions can lead to profound experiences, such as being unable to recognize one’s own reflection. Research shows that hypnosis is effective for pain, anxiety, PTSD, irritable bowel syndrome, and more. It works by altering brain activity, increasing the neurotransmitter GABA, and inducing a trance-like state. Despite its eccentric history, hypnosis is gaining credibility as a valuable therapeutic tool1.

Key Points:

  1. Spiegel’s Encounter: Dr. Spiegel successfully treated an asthma patient using hypnosis, calming her wheezing and improving her breathing.
  2. Hypnotic Suggestions: Simple suggestions during hypnosis can lead to remarkable outcomes, such as involuntary arm movement or fused interlaced fingers.
  3. Effective Therapeutic Tool: Evidence supports hypnosis for pain management, anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions.
  4. Brain Changes: Hypnosis alters brain activity and increases GABA levels.
  5. Trance-Like State: Hypnotizable individuals enter a focused, receptive state during sessions.

In summary, hypnosis transcends its magical reputation, offering real benefits in modern medicine