Hypnosis Is Now Offered at IHC

Eleanor Heacock, MA, MEd, CH

Do you have difficulty releasing weight, falling asleep, managing stress, or stopping smoking? Or maybe you want to make changes in your life and have difficulty believing you can do it. Hypnosis provides a pleasant, relaxing, and relatively easy way to make those changes.

Hypnosis refers to a state of deep relaxation in which one's mind is highly open to suggestions. It is much like that time when you are falling asleep or just waking up from deep sleep. Your body is very relaxed and your mind is very alert. It is a perfect opportunity to focus your attention on what you really want and to give yourself positive suggestions to accomplish your goals.

We often associate hypnosis with such names as Anton Mesmer (1734-1815), Sigmund Freud (1856-1913), and Carl Jung (1875-1961). As a healing art, hypnosis actually dates to 3000 BC, when the Egyptians used hypnotic techniques in their sleep temples. The ancient Greeks were also known for their use of hypnosis in healing, and its use has continued through history in countries all around the globe. In current times we think of Milton Erickson as the father of modern hypnosis.

Let's consider for a moment common misconceptions. Some people have concerns that they might be unconscious or will do something against their will. This is simply not true. One cannot be hurt in hypnosis nor forced to do anything against their will. In actuality, consciousness is increased and one experiences heightened, focused awareness. Due to this increased awareness and concentration, the person is always capable of making decisions at all times. Some have concerns that they may reveal secrets. Again, heightened awareness allows one to make decisions about what to reveal. Some fear that once hypnotized they will not come out of it. Since the person actually is self-hypnotized, then he or she can easily revive when necessary. Hypnotism is very safe.

There are three types of hypnosis, and as you read this your mind is probably wandering to rather strange stories or television programs. You may be thinking that you have heard of people quacking like a duck when hypnotized. Welcome to the world of stage hypnosis! It is used strictly for entertainment purposes. Have you noticed that the stage hypnotist always asks for audience volunteers and those who answer the call are willing to do just about anything. They seem to enjoy being seen doing something that seems a bit outrageous. It is important to note that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis and that nothing can be done against a person's will! So enjoy what you see for what it is... stage entertainment.

You may also be familiar with another type of hypnosis. Medical hypnosis is becoming increasingly recognized as helpful for dental and surgical procedures, used in place of or in conjunction with anesthesia. In such cases, highly trained hypnotists work alongside the medical personnel.

Here at Integrated Health Concepts we offer the third type of hypnosis which you can use to make changes in your life. We will teach you about the process, help you design your personal goals and suggestions, and guide you through the relaxing experience. You will also receive printed information and specific instructions in Steps of Self-Hypnosis, which you can use at home for your continuing growth. Our hypnotists are Catherine Poole and Eleanor Heacock, both certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists. In addition, Eleanor is certified by the National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists. Here at IHC we say, change your thinking, change your life. Hypnosis is a key!

- Eleanor Heacock, Certified Hypnotist

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