Hypnosis, or hypnotherapy, is most commonly known to help mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. However, hypnosis is quite effective for other conditions, including smoking cessation, pain control and weight loss. Behavior change is one of the main goals of hypnosis. Altering our eating habits is one of the most challenging aspects of weight loss. We must change what we eat, how we eat, where we eat, and when we eat. All of these are rooted in behavior change. Hypnosis is especially helpful to induce changes in what we do.
How Does Hypnosis Work?
Hypnosis is a treatment technique in which a hypnotherapist makes suggestions while an individual is in a suggestable state, or trance. In the beginning of the hypnosis session, one is guided into a deep state of relaxation. Then, the therapist offers guidance aimed at altering behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Some people can go “deeper” into trance than others; however, most everyone has the capability of benefiting from hypnosis.
When you meet with a hypnotherapist, he or she will gain an understanding of your specific weight loss concerns and goals. You will be asked questions about your history, such as any mental health and medical conditions and previous treatments. Your therapist will want to understand your family dynamics and lifestyle. The better your therapist knows you, the better he or she can tailor your hypnosis session.
All this information will guide the specific suggestions and images that will be presented to you. For example, if you crave sweets, part of your session might focus on aversion to sweet foods and attraction to vegetables and other health foods. Additionally, hypnosis for weight loss incorporates images of you at your ideal weight. After a successful series of sessions, you may find yourself making healthier food choices, exercising with more motivation, and feeling better about your self-image.
How Do I Know If Hypnosis Will Help Me?
Hypnotizability is defined as the increase in suggestability during hypnosis. There is some thought that hypnotizability is associated with a better outcome. This is not necessarily the case, however. Even those who do not experience a deep state of trance can still experience the benefits of hypnosis. The suggestions that are provided by the therapist are still able to be incorporated into the unconscious.
Most diets fail because individuals do not make the necessary psychological and behavioral changes for sustained loss. When you decide to diet, you should work with professionals who can support you throughout the process. Working with your physician, a nutritionist, and a mental health professional can ensure that you will receive the best and most effective advice.
How Effective is Hypnosis?
Decades of research shows that hypnotic techniques are effective for a wide range of issues, including weight loss. However, hypnosis alone is unlikely to help you lose weight. Eating a healthy diet, exercise, psychological therapy, and other lifestyle changes are essential to sustained weight loss.
Among 60 women between the age of 20 and 65, hypnosis was found to be effective for weight loss. This study utilized group hypnosis with specific therapeutic stories and metaphors designed to increase motivation, self-esteem, and problem-solving and explore unconscious issues related to losing pounds.
How Do I Start?
Dr. Mazzei is a certified hypnotherapist and health psychologist. She has helped many people lose weight using hypnosis and other psychological therapies. Dr. Mazzei also has experience working with those struggling with psychological issues related to dieting, such as emotional eating and food addiction. If you are interested in changing how you look and feel, contact her today at (480) 448-6755 to schedule an initial consultation.
