HYPNOSIS:

For Self Betterment And Self Healing

BY

GEORGE FELFOLDI, D.D., Ph.D.

2008, George Felfoldi

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 HYPNOSIS:
For Self Betterment And Self Healing

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 COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

Copyright 2008 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

No part of this book may be reproduced or

transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronically or mechanically, including
photocopy, recording or any information
storage or retrieval system that is known
or to be invented, without permission in
writing from the author or from the
publisher. Except by a reviewer
wishes to quote brief passages
in connection with a review
written from inclusion in
a magazine, newspaper
or broadcast. All
other copyrights belong to their respectable owners.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page
Subtitle Page
Copyright Information
Table Of Contents
Dedication
Special Thanks
About The Author
Other Books By The Author
CHAPTER ONE
Hypnosis And Sensory Awareness
Introduction
History
Theoretical Basis
Approaches To Hypnogogic Trance States
General Principles Of Heightened States of
Consciousness And Awareness (The 5 Laws)
Experimental Data
Experiences In Hypnogogic Trance States
Problem Solving
Mediumistic Trances
Time Distortion
Age Regression
Revivification
Extra Cerebral Memory (ECM)

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 Astral Projection
Practical Applications
Procedures Of Auto-Suggestion And Hypnogogic
Trance States
CHAPTER TWO
The Left Side
The Right Side
How Negative Attitudes Affect A Person
Some Positive Tips For Perennial Happiness
CHAPTER THREE
Hypnosis And Other Things Explained
Uses Of Hypnosis
Physical Applications
Psychotherapeutic Applications
Other uses
Brief How Hypnosis Works
Twentieth-Century Theories
Brain Imaging
CHAPTER FOUR
21 Days To A Younger You
Method
CHAPTER FIVE
Hypnosis And Occult Resources
How To Hypnotize Someone
Just Some Little Touch Ups On Hypnosis
CHAPTER SIX
Do It Yourself!

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 Dispelling The Myths
Its A Choice!
How Trance Occurs
CHAPTER SEVEN
Research
The State/Nonstate Debate
What Is An Altered State Of Consciousness
What Is Essentially Hypnotic?
Not Just Relaxation
Effortlessness
Behavioural Studies
Neuroimaging Studies
Theories
Dissociated Control Theory (DCT)
Social-Cognitive Theory / Response Set Theory
Neodissasociation Theory (Hilgard, 1979, 1986)
Neurophysiological Theory
Integrative Cognitive Theory
Cold Control Theory
Dissociated-Experience Theory
Ego-Psychological Theory
Neuroimaging Studies
CHAPTER EIGHT
Measurement Of Hypnosis
Hypnotic Susceptibility Scales
Suggestions
Properties Of Hypnotic Susceptibility

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 Correlates Of Hypnotic Suggestibility
CHAPTER NINE
Pain Management: Imagery & Visualization
Here Is An Exercise
CHAPTER TEN
Hypnosis And Pain Research
CHAPTER ELEVEN
Modification Of Suggestibility
CHAPTER TWELVE
Frequently Asked Questions

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME

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 DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to both

of my (Late) parents who have
inspired me in so many ways,
and who has started me
early on my journey to
discovery.

And also to all my, Masters, Teachers,

Associates, Students, Friends
and Family members.

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 SPECIAL THANKS
I would like to thank all the following, people,
friends and companies, that made this Book
possible.

A special thanks to the following:

Bettyann Felfoldi, D.B.S.

American ParaPsychological Research Foundation
Bhagwan Sathya Sai Baba
Eye Of The Eagle Retreat & Wellness Center
Wikipedia Wikipedia Foundation Inc.
HypnosisWorks
Zimbio Organization
Curo Network
Hypnosis And Suggestions Organization
Toronto Public Library System
Healthy Directions Magazine
The American Institute Of Cosmic Science
ArthritisInsight.Com
and also
Family & Friends.

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 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DR. GEORGE FELFOLDI

Is an Independent Baptist Minister, A Musician, an Author,
and Recording Artist, who lives in Toronto, Ontario
Canada. George Holds 8 doctors degrees in various fields
and has written several books on different subjects such as:
Occult, Health, Vision Care, Herbals, Sex, Ships, Solar
Power, Animals, Mythology, Religion, ParaPsychology,
Medical, Cooking, Hypnosis and also Poetry and Lyrics,
etc. George is also married and has four grown children.

George is also a life time member in: The American

ParaPsychological Research Foundation and The American
Association of Religious Counselors.

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 OTHER BOOKS BY THE AUTHOR

2006
Katoomba-Columbia
The Power Of Garlic
The Meaning Of New Birth
Speaking To God Through Prayers
Ginger The Herb And Root Guide
The Complete Book On Angels
Chamomile The Healing Herb
The Healing Powers Of Aloe Vera
The Healing Powers Of Cranberry
The Healing Powers Of Seaweed And Algae
The Spiritual Key To Healing
The Healing Powers Of Pomegranate

2007

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The Healing Powers Of Blueberries
AMD - Age-Related Macular Degeneration
A Modern Look At Solar Power
The Healing Powers Of Oregano
The Healing Powers Of Coconuts
The Book Of Spells: White Magic Vs. Black Magic
The Healing Powers Of Cherries
Experimenting With The G-Spot
Sex Magic
The Images Of God
The Healing Powers Of Thistles
The Felfoldis: Medical Herbal Encyclopedia
The Complete Book On Herbal Magick
The Herbs And Animals Of The Bible
The Road To Better Health
The Gnomes In Mythology
The Magic Of Having Great Sex
The Healing Powers Of Strawberries
The Backyard Terror: Squirrels
Changing The Way We Look At Wolves
Cooking With Eggs Cookbook
The Healing Powers Of Watermellons
The Healing Powers Of Avocados

2008
The Healing Powers Of Mangos
The Complete Book Of Angels (2nd Edition)
The State Of Man (In Relationship To The Bible)

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The Healing Powers Of Tomatoes
The Schooner, Bluenose II
The Healing Powers Of Mushrooms
A Modern Look At ParaPsychology: Exploring
Psychic Reality And Psychical Research
Angel Light Bible Studies (A Complete 22 Lesson Course)
Peach Popourri (A Book On Peaches)
Hypnosis: For Self Betterment And Self Healing

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CHAPTER
ONE

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 CHAPTER ONE

HYPNOSIS AND SENSORY

AWARENESS

Hypnosis, is sometimes called SLEEP which is actually

an altered state of consciousness and a form of sensory
awareness. This hypnogogic state (an expansion of
consciousness) is entered when a person withdraws from
the five conscious senses and centers all concentration upon
the inner creative mind.

Indeed, hypnogogic trance states are more than just parlor

games. Already hypnosis is being used in the medical field
as a means of cure. Therefore, hypnosis can become a
whole new focus on life. Patient training will develop this
awareness, which in turn will make ESP abilities possible.

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 Our consciousness does not create itself - it
arises from unknown depths. In childhood it
awakes gradually, and all through life it wakes
each morning out of the depths of sleep, i.e.,
out of an unconscious condition.
Carl G. Jung

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 INTRODUCTION

Of all the subjects that are in the field of Parapsychology,

hypnosis is the most misunderstood by the masses or
(people). Some of the blame for this can be laid at the foot
of a few people involved in the phenomenon. For example,
some hypnotists sell their services for a high price, others
misuse this precious gift by means of carnival acts.

And there are other problems of connotation. Many

Hollywood films tend to show hypnotism as an evil
governing power of one mind over another. Such films
have helped to discourage serious interest in hypnosis
among some of the people; while actually frightening
others. Ideas like these are unfortunate because hypnosis
has been accepted as a useful tool in the medical field, used
by doctors and dentists to ease pain.

Hypnosis has also been used as an aid to law enforcement

agencies because a hypnotic trance works much as a truth
serum.

While in a hypnotic trance, the subject can reach an inner

peace; relax and recall past experiences. However, not only
is hypnosis paramount in self-understanding, but in actual
treatment. Probably the first known use of hypnosis was in
healing of both physical and emotional disorders. Of

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course, a hypnotic trance cannot be merely turned-on like
a light switch on a wall. This heightened state of awareness
must be attained through outer unconsciousness, and inner
realization.

Doctors, parapsychologists as well as scientists, through

study, can now understand what hypnosis actually is.
Basically, it is a hypnogogic state; somewhere between
consciousness and unconsciousness. The field of attention
is narrowed down and behavior is characterized by an
openness to focus of inner consciousness levels, and
suggestion from within or without.

There is increased voluntary control of the voluntary nerve

system and body function. Inner levels of consciousness
and heightened states of sensory awareness, varying in
degrees from very light to excessively deep, are called
hypnogogic trance states. This literally means that the
mind is between wakefulness (conscious) and sleep
(unconsciousness). In the various hypnogogic trance states,
the individual is able to tap the unused portion of his
brain, and this outwardly unconscious-inwardly conscious
state, results in a heightened awareness of the sensory field.
This enables the subject to experience mind-body
awareness and inner consciousness that results in time
regression, memory recall, problem solving, profound
aesthetic experiences, mystical insight, clairvoyance, and
even the deepest levels of mediumistic trance states.

All this can be accomplished by hypnotic and hypnogogic

trance states. The phenomenon has had many different

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names over the years, and many different followers, but it
has really always been what it is today: A state
characterized by outer unconsciousness, and inner
realization.

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 HISTORY

Hypnosis had been practiced in one way or another, since

the beginning of time. Records as early as 3,000 B.C. attest
to the use of hypnosis in the Orient, Greece, India and
Rome, where magicians, medical man and high priests used
hypnosis for religious and therapeutic purposes. The
Egyptians used hypnosis as far back as 1,000 years before
Cleopatra ruled as queen. They healed by a method of
hypnosis, calling it the curing sleep. They believed that
hypnotic sleep was of a divine nature.

The Scriptures show many allusions to hypnotic-like

techniques in healing, such as the laying on of the hands
(suggestion), as well as prophetic dreams that were brought
about by a heightened sense of self and inner conscious,
outer unconscious levels.

Early followers of Christianity however, did not look upon

hypnosis as a divine or sacred, in any way. They
regarded hypnosis as a form of sorcery, and were
frightened of its powers.

In the 15th century, Renaissance physician Paracelsus,

theorized concerning a constant mutual attraction between
celestial bodies and living things. But the first real
breakthrough came in the year 1776, when an Austrian
physician named Franz Anton Mesmer, conceived the idea

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that all living things are surrounded by magnetic forces that
greatly affect the human, animal or plant body. Dr. Mesmer
was a healer, and although many thought him to have little
scientific knowledge, he realized the enormous emotional
power of both inner and outer suggestion. Mesmers
theories, although rejected while he lived and worked, had
some basis of fact now, as it has been proven that patients
are influenced by both suggestions and electrostatic
induction.

Near the later part of the 1700s a group of medical men

exposed and denounced Mesmers theories. This was
understandable, as Dr. Mesmer neglected the spiritual
element in his teachings. The New Thought Religion
follows many of Mesmers original ideas, but there is a
concrete spiritual concept in the belief, missing entirely
from Mesmers standards. Regardless, even today,
hypnosis is often referred to as Mesmerism, which is
named after Dr. Mesmer.

Phineas Parkhurst Quimby was an American hypnotist

who healed by suggestion during the mid-1800s. One of
his consultants was Mary Baker Eddy, who founded the
church of Christian Science on the idea of healing through
faith and by suggestion.

In the late 1830s, more than 20 years after Dr. Mesmers

death, many of his theories and practices were still widely
utilized, contrary to public scorn. Even the highly respected
English physician Dr. John Elliotson, was literally forced

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out of the medical profession for healing with mesmeric
techniques.

It was Scottish physician, Dr. James Braid, however, who

first correlated the idea of suggestion to the electrostatic
induction of mesmerism, and gave the phenomenon its
present name from the Greek word, Hypnos, meaning
sleep.

French physician, Dr. A. A. Liebeault, is credited with

various hypnotic induction techniques, that are used today
by doctors and hypnotists alike. Dr. Liebeault cured
numerous patients by hypnotic suggestion. At one time he
succeeded in curing a patient who the famed neurologist
Dr. Hippolyte Bernheim failed to heal. Bernheim was first
skeptical of Liebeaults proclaimed abilities, but after only
one meeting with the quiet, unassuring country doctor,
Bernheim became excessively interested in the mans work.
The two doctors worked together after the first meeting,
developing the theories of James Braid and these men are
today considered the Fathers of Psychotherapy. Their
work with thousands of patients received wide notice and
favorable acclaim, and certainly helped to bring the
reputation of the phenomenon of hypnosis out of the Dark
Ages.

Sigmund Freud was not entirely against hypnosis,

however he felt that in such case the doctor was not being
fair to the patient because he was denying that patient of the
knowledge of what was transpiring at the time of cure.

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However, the method of hypnosis today are very different
from the original ideas that was shunned by Freud.
Hypnosis has been changed from a direct doctor-inspired
session, to a more open and responsive means of physical,
emotional, or mental curing, directed to the needs of the
patient.

Hypnosis, as a means of psychotherapy, was used to treat

soldiers suffering from neuroses during the two world wars.
Clark Hull was one of the first to combine hypnotic and
psychiatric techniques, and this practice has been carried on
by the medical doctors, dentists, and psychologists for
many decades.

In the mid-nineteen fifties, the British Medical Association

passed a resolution approving the use of hypnosis as a
curing method for physical and mental disorders. They
loudly denounced hypnosis as a means of public or private
entertainment; explaining that the phenomenon belongs in
the hands of dedicated and learned individuals who wish to
use it to the universal good.

This idea was echoed in 1961, in America, when the

American Medical Association recommended
approximately 150 hours of study in hypnotic techniques
by an individual before attempting to hypnotize a subject.

Also here in Canada, The Canadian Medical Association

has adopted the same ideas and rules from its American

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counterparts. These advances have resulted in placing
hypnosis where it should indeed be: A phenomenon that is,
for the most part, used for the progressive improvement of
the mind and body.

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 THEORETICAL BASIS

The theories of hypnosis and an increased state of

awareness can best be explained and understood in this
paradoxical phrase: When we are outwardly aware, or
conscious, we are inwardly unconscious. Likewise, in a
hypnogogic or state, while the mind is not conscious of
external surroundings and is outwardly conscious, it is
fully aware of an inner conscious level. In other words,
unconsciousness is consciousness, and visa versa.

We are told by doctors and scientists that we use only a

small amount of our brain power. In a hypnogogic state
there is greater voluntary control of the involuntary bodily
functions such as (the central nervous system, autonomic
nervous system, etc.) and inner levels of creativity and
ESP. We call this am altered level of consciousness and
heightened sensory awareness.

The basis of all hypnotic and hypnogogic states is the mind

and the brain. But to understand these levels of
consciousness, we must first explore what the brain
actually is, and how it functions during a hypnogogic trance
state.

The brain has undergone a decisive evolution throughout

the centuries, actually resulting in an enlargement of the
physical organ itself. Its evolution has been a slow one.

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Habits of civilization determine the present size and
operation of the human brain. Mans desire for survival
brought about the changes and they have been passed on to
his progeny.

Originally, the normal brain of every culture is identical.

The only difference is brought about by application and
training. Mans brain automatically adjusts to the nature
and requirements of its personal environment. Modern day
men tends to concentrate on the artificial world that
surrounds him, and thus he utilizes only a fraction of his
brain.

The brain is actually two brains that are encased in one.

The oldest portion is called the, Rhinecephalon, the
major portion being the, Thalamus, and caters to the
visceral needs of the body rather then to its purely
structured and logical functioning. It is the cradle of mens
emotional behavior and is much like the inner core of a golf
ball. This, in contrast to the outer grey matter covering. At
one time in history, the thalamus was all that man had to
function with, but as man evolved from a reflexive
organism to a logical being, the brain grew.

As man developed, the neo-cortex, (Telencephalon) or grey

matter outer shell expanded, and man developed the ability
to use the newly developed frontal neo-cortical areas for
logical thought, and the parietal, temporal, and occipital
cortical areas for the interchange of language symbols that
enable him to read and write.

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In hypnotic states, it is the inner thalamus core that is the
more active, and the outer neo-cortex grey matter shell that
becomes more passive. It is almost as if the two brains
acted independently of one another. Whereas incoming
sensory signals generally come via the thalamus to the neo-
cortex, in hypnotic or hypnogogic states, the thalamus
believes the imaginary stimuli or lack of stimuli to be a
reality, and the individual responds to this actuality.

The old brain (thalamus) thinks visually, without linguistic

or logistic symbolism and cannot reason. As there are no
limits to creativity or sensory function, since reason and
mans logical brain has been made inactive, there is nothing
to limit the extent of achievement of a sense of reality.
Mans old brain functions par excellence, aided by mans
new brain in an even better way than it did in the head of
the cave man who couldnt use abstract symbols.

Today scientists and researchers believe that if modern man

were able to make greater contact with the old brain, he
would have, Full cortical power, freeing him from any
limits to creativity. Man would be able to realize inner
hopes and dreams through hypnogogic trance states,
visualize beauty, relive former experiences, or meditate. In
other words, if a subject was in a state of inner sensitivity
through a hypnogogic trance, he could envision himself
doing whatever he wished. No responsible person would
recommend excessive day-dreaming to the point of
psychosis or even emotional instability. However, it is
important for man to indulge in his inner life, and

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hypnogogic trance states, properly channeled, can give man
a better understanding of his internal world and psychic
needs.

Hypnogogic states are possible only when the mind and

body are slowed down to quiet the restful receptive. Trance
levels begin somewhere in the meditative state, produced
by the brains rhythm, which is termed by scientists and
researchers as, Alpha.

The extent of the external stimuli, or outer conscious levels,

naturally determines the amount of cortical activity and the
emission of electric waves from the cortex. These various
brain wave patterns range thusly:
Beta 26 to 12 cycles per second. This is the normal outer
conscious level of mental activity during wakefulness, or
in a physical working state.
Alpha, 12 to 8 cycles per second. Alpha rhythm is the
accepted level of the inner mental activity, intense
thought and ESP.
Theta, 8 to 4 cycles per second. This level is reflective of
deeper levels of recall, meditation and the majority of
hypnogogic states, including hypnosis.
Delta, 4 to 0 cycles per second. It is associated with deep
sleep, somnambulism or outer unconsciousness.

Hypnogogic states are those where there is inhibition of

that part of the cortex where current sensory and stored
sensory experiences are housed in (the neo-cortex). This
facilitates the function of other part of the cortex, primarily

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the thalamus that relays sensory impulses to the outer
thinking layer. This in turn enhances sensitivity to
internal and external electromagnetic force fields. So then,
hypnogogic trances are the result, not only of suggestion,
but of electrostatic induction, or shifting of electromagnetic
energies internally by self or external forces. For example,
the magnetizer (hypnotist) generates oscillating bio-
electrostatic turbulence. In other words, both suggestion
and psychokinetic force fields play a part in the induction of
hypnogogic states.

As I have mentioned previously, hypnogogic trance states

are generally associated with the period between
wakefulness and sleep, allowing man the ability to have
creative, insightful, revelatory, and psychic experiences,
and greater control of body and will power. This is made
possible because in a hypnogogic state, man is more
attuned to the external electromagnetic force fields that
surrounds him, as well as the full inner level of the mind.

APPRACHES TO HYPNOGOGIC
TRANCE STATES

There are various techniques to induce a hypnogogic

trance. These three methods that I listed below utilize the
senses. We all use hypnotic techniques, directly or
indirectly. This is done by sight, sound and feel.

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THREE METHOD:

1. Room or wall paper color, pictures, and even clothing,

cause inner reactions and are a subtle means of visual
hypnotic induction. To state this more pointedly, these
methods may sometimes have a hypnotic effect upon us
when we are unaware that such a thing is taking place.
Sometimes to achieve a hypnotic trance indirectly, the
subject is placed in a darkened room with very little to
challenge his vision. Direct visual induction can be
accomplished by focusing concentration on visual
stimuli. Such as rotating discs, flashing lights, colors,
moving objects, these are all used as a means of inducing
a hypnotic or hypnogogic states.
2. Music, soft or loud, creates an auditory (Verbal)
environment that can also induce a trance. The human
voice can also induce trances. The pitch, the volume, and
the rhythm of the voice can suggest a sleep state. Direct
verbal induction is created by a choice of words with
emotional appeal that will cause the subject to respond
accordingly, or if desired, to enter into a deeper trance
level. The hypnotist often use direct commands of sleep,
such as: Relax, close your eyes, go to sleep. Those
using the verbal induction method must choose their
words carefully. The theory of the semantic differential
of Charles Osgood shows that words carry varying
connotations of good or bad. Subjects actually react to
words as though they were objects.
3. Tactile Induction toward hypnosis involves items and
situations appealing to the subjects sense of touch. The

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 subject can relax in a comfortable chair with a reclining
back, or on a soft couch. Indirect methods of this sort
include restful positions or comfortable clothing. Direct
methods of tactile induction include physical contact
with the body, such as touch or caress. Closely related to
the tactile sensations in the olfactory system where a
certain odor is used to induce or appeal. Rarely used, but
possible is the use of taste to induce a certain state of
hypnosis. Such indirect methods, though seldom
employed, could appeal in a very personal way to a
certain subject.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF
HEIGHTENED STATES OF
CONSCIOUSNESS AND
AWARENESS (THE 5 LAWS)

1. Law of Selective Attention and Concentrated Focus: The

field of awareness is narrowed down, and there is limited
attention to any external stimuli in the environment,
except the selective center of attention.
2. Law of Emotional Appeal: Remember that the Thalamic
brain is foremost in any hypnotic or hypnogogic state.
The Thalamus is mans emotional brain, unable to think
in linguistic symbols and totally without the ability to
reason. Therefore, emotional appeal must be instituted in
this method.

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3. Law of Visualization: In this instance, mind pictures and
mental images are introduced to or by the subject. The
appeal must be induced by means of pictures, rather than
solely by word use. Remember that the old brain thinks
visually.
4. Law of Association: The mind associates ideas by
semantic connotations of words, as well as the visual
symbols that represents them. Charles Osgoods theory
of the semantic differential relates that all words and
symbols have many different kinds of meaning and
connotations of goodness and badness to our minds.
Therefore, anyone attempting a hypnogogic trance must
select their sensory images, and words that clearly
represents them, and it must be selected with great care.
5. Law of Belief and Expectation: Only the neo-cortical
center (Cortex) can limit the unrealistic aspirations, and
perhaps this is just as well, because otherwise, much
time and effort could be wasted. Still, once the hypnotic
suggestion is clearly stated and visualized, no limits can
be imposed. The Thalamus must believe and expect the
desired results.

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 EXPERIMENTAL DATA

Electro-cortical measurements of Einsteins brain revealed

a high activity in the occipital visual language centers of
the cortex when compared with electro-cortical activity in
other cortical areas.

Practically stated, Albert Einstein was capable of a

heightened state of concentration, resulting in an altered
sense of consciousness. This was accomplished by a form
of self-hypnosis or auto-suggestion.

Hypnosis can create or it can detract. It can exalt mind-

body functions. It is simply a matter of fact that under
hypnosis, all things are possible when we tap the unused
portion of our mind.

The power of the mind demonstrated by men of genius and

other individuals in hypnotic states is reflected by electro-
cortical activity. Upon suggestion, it has been proven that
man is capable of blocking off an area of the cortex or the
primary sense areas, as if the area had a lesion. This
prevents it from functioning normally, as in psuedo-
blindness, psuedo-deafness, loss of feeling for pain,
cessation of blood flow, or the development of blistering to
an imaginary burn.

34
We have all seen demonstrations of hypnosis where such
conditions have been shown: muscular inactivity,
insensibility to bodily sensations and other bodily
functions, anesthesia and hyperesthesia, catalepsy, and
suspended animation.

Hetero-suggestion or auto-suggestion can, on the other

hand, stimulate areas of the brain to develop more acute
hearing, vision, as well as the other senses and even going
a step beyond that, can result in ESP and Clairvoyance.
Internationally famous, Dr. Milan Ryzl has successfully
trained many people to develop their latent psychic powers
through hetero-suggestion. Those trained in such a way can
achieve a higher degree of sensory awareness with careful
and proper concentration.

Many lab. experiments have determined that there are

varying stages of hypnogogic trance states, ranging from
light, through to medium, to a deep somnambulistic state. A
light trance state is actually inner and outer relaxation,
accompanied by drowsiness of eyes and heaviness of limbs.
Voluntary movements become inhibited, and simple
suggestions are obeyed by the subject.

The outer drowsiness is increased in a medium state of

trance. Complete rigidity of limbs and other parts of the
body is accomplished by the subjects ability to sit for a
prolonged period of time in one position, without
discomfort being felt. In this stage, the subject will obey
post-hypnotic suggestions.

35
The deep trance state is characterized by somnambulism.
There is complete amnesia by the subject to anything but
post-hypnotic suggestions and there are vivid hallucinations
of the senses. The higher levels of consciousness can result
in clairvoyance.

These increased levels of consciousness, created by the

physical degree of hypnotic trance, results in hypnogogic
experiences. These stages produce problem solving,
mystical insight and revelatory experiences; all that is made
possible by them actual physical hypnotic trance state.

It has recently been discovered that there are different

levels of Delta sleep, and this has resulted in a widely used
experiments termed Sleep Students. This process was
officially termed as REM or Rapid Eye Movement
happens early in the Delta level of sleep. Tests continue to
prove that eye movement is present during this level of
sleep., and it is further determined that the more REM
present in a subject, the more sleep that subject requires.
Rapid eye movement is the result of mental activity during
sleep, and according to some studies, is purposeful for
problem solving. In other words, some people require more
sleep, because they need the extra sleep hours to resolve
their problems.

Our waking stability then, appears to be dependent upon

our own ability to face reality during unconscious periods
of sleep or deep meditation.

36
 EXPERIENCES IN HYPNOGOGIC
TRANCE STATES

Some people are capable of a heightened state of

concentration that is not found in other people. Therefore, it
can be said that the altered state of awareness is actually a
means of auto-suggestion that is often found in the creative
or genius person. So then, apparently such creative
persons are able to induce self-hypnosis and can then
accomplish things far beyond the grasp or attainment of
others.

These facts are believable and they are possible. Actually,

denial is ignorance. However, without the knowledge of
this highly attuned and awakened sense of awareness could
Mozart have written symphonies almost before his child-
mind could perceive what he was doing? Or Picasso paint
in a state of such detachment that it sometimes seemed to
him that some great force beyond his control or
understanding was guiding the brush in his hands? Is this
not a form of hypnosis?

Beethoven, Goethe, Dickens, Lincoln, Hamilton,

Chopin, and Bach, all these great and accomplished men
wrote that there were times that they felt their minds or
their hands were directed by something other than their
own senses. Is it not than safe to conclude that the genius

37
spark, considered by many to be inborn and therefore not
attained to those not blessed with the gift at birth, is really
no more than a heightened state of sensory awareness,
through hypnotic auto-suggestion.

Deep trance state is characterized by somnambulism. There

is complete amnesia by the subject to anything but post-
hypnotic suggestion and there are vivid hallucinations of
the senses. The higher levels of consciousness can result in
clairvoyance.

These increased levels of consciousness, which is created

by the physical degree of hypnotic trance, result in
hypnogogic experiences. These various stages produce
problem solving, mystical insight and revelatory
experiences; all made possible by the actual physical
hypnotic trance state.

But there is more to hypnosis than the obvious trance levels

and stages. Hypnotic trances create variances in the brain.
When a person is in a semi-conscious state, electro-cortical
activity in the brain is changed.

It has recently been discovered that there are different

levels of Delta Sleep, and this has resulted in the widely
used experiments termed Steeping Students. Officially
was termed REM (Rapid Eye Movement) happens early in
the Delta level of sleep. Tests continue to prove that REM
is present during this level of sleep, and it is further
determined that the more REM present in a subject, the
more sleep that subject requires. REM is the result of

38
mental activity during sleep, and according to studies, is
purposeful for problem solving. In other words, some
people require more sleep than others because they need
the extra sleep hours to resolve their problems.

Our waking stability then, appears to be dependent upon

our own ability to face reality during unconscious periods
of sleep or deep meditation.

39
 EXPERIENCES IN HYPNOGOGIC
TRANCE STATES

Some people are capable of a heightened state of

concentration that is not found in other individuals.
Therefore, it can be safely said here, that altered state of
awareness is actually a means of auto-suggestion that is
often found in the creative or genius individuals. So then,
apparently such creative people are able to induce self-
hypnosis and can then accomplish things that are far
beyond the grasp or attainment of other individuals.

These facts are believable, and they are possible. Actually

denial is ignorance. How, without the knowledge of this
highly attuned and awakened sense of awareness could
Mozart have written symphonies almost before his child-
mind could perceive what he was doing? Or Picasso paint
in a state of such detachment that it sometimes seemed to
him that some great force beyond his control or
understanding was guiding the brush in his hands?

Goethe, Beethoven, Charles Dickens, Chopin, Hamilton,

Lincoln and Bach, all these people and accomplished men
wrote that there were times that they felt their minds or
their hands were directed by something other than their
own senses. It is not then, safe to conclude that the genius
spark , considered by many to be inborn and therefore not

40
attainable to those not blessed with the gift at birth, is really
no more than a heightened state of sensory awareness,
through hypnotic auto-suggestion?

Let us examine the principles that are involved here: The

world at times may seem full of bothersome noises and
tedious duties. If we allow ourselves to be completely
dominated by the world, ignoring the elevated plane of
sensory realization, we will accomplish very little, because
our minds will be so very busy trying to cope with
everyday life that we will find no time to attune ourselves.
Therefore, it is easy to see how some people accomplish so
much. They without a doubt, talented, but they are able to
draw a curtain between the world and themselves, and so
they accomplish.

Although everyone does not seek to be talented, everyone

does strive towards success. We have all heard the words,
You are what you think you are. Many successful people
who praise the power of the mind, and the power of
positive thinking, have achieved the heightened state of
awareness.

(I also highly recommend that you read the book by Dr.

Norman Vincent Peale called The Power Of Positive
Thinking 1953, reprint 1966).

Although the self-help and positive thought theory is not

found within the realms of parapsychology, such an idea is
based on sensory awareness. These people have found the
secret of self-realization through an altered state of mind.

41
They do not allow their attuned concentration to be
disturbed or directed by others. These individuals,
therefore, that many of us no doubt consider lucky fall
into the same category as the creative genius individuals.
Their talents and successes have come about through
sensory awareness.

Over the years many people had visions while in a

hypnogogic trance state, that led to great discoveries.
Mendeleyev, the scientist, saw his periodic table of the
elements in a dream, long before it became a reality.
Physicist, Niels Bohr, had a vision of planets tied to the
sun by filaments whirling around him, and such a sight led
him to the discovery of a model for the atom.

Many such visions have occurred during light sleep,

which is, as stated earlier, a hypnogogic state; the
borderline period between wakefulness and sleep.

Hypnogogic states produce dream of insight, mystical

visions and other so called revelations that seemingly could
not be offered at any other state of consciousness. Let us
examine such experiences:

PROBLEM SOLVING

Problem solving is one phase of creative sleep

characterized by creativity, illuminatory and insightful
experiences. An excellent example of this is the experience

42
of a professor of Anthropology who solved a most
perplexing problem during his sleep.

This professor, many years ago, was attempting to

reassemble the skeleton of a fossil fish. Success escaped
him on a conscious level. Finally to tired to continue, he
put aside his work and went to bed. During sleep he saw
the fossil completely constructed, but upon waking he
found he could not remember where some of the obscure
pieces fitted together. The following night he experienced
the same revelation during his sleep, with the same
disappointing results upon waking.

Determined to capture the reality, the third night he

prepared for the dream information by placing a pencil and
paper at his side. When he awoke he could remember
nothing that had transpired during his sleep, but when he
glanced at the paper besides the bed, there was the entire
sketch, and with it he was able to accomplish and finish his
work. His dream sketch proved correct in every detail.

Dreams of a revelatory nature and mystical insight appears

throughout the pages of Biblical history. Perhaps the most
stirring case from a standpoint of its fulfillment is recorded
in the 27th chapter of Genesis. Jacob, had left his home
with his fathers blessing and was on his way to marry
Rachel the daughter of Labon. When night came, Jacob
found a place to rest. He selected a large stone for a pillow
and lay down to sleep. In a dream he saw a ladder coming
out of the stone, reaching to heaven. Blessed angels
ascended and descended the ladder. The Lord stood at the

43
top of the ladder and spoke to Jacob, promising him a full,
rich life, and all the land that stretched before him,
concluding with the promise that his (Jacobs) seed would
be blessed with good families in the generations to follow.

When Jacob arose, he knew that the Lord had visited the
place, so he took the stone, poured oil over it and called it
Bethel. Those promises were all fulfilled in the following
chapters of the Scriptures.

When we approach sleep there is a period between

wakefulness and sleep that literally paralyzes the body
allowing keen mental activity. This limbo-like transition
between physical sleep and mental alertness represents
different hypnogogic trance states.

How long the subject is held in the particular trance is

difficult to measure, for complete sleep usually claims him
before any time check could be registered. But numerous
reports have continued to astound scientists and researchers
concerning unusual experiences during sleep.

Such was the case with a young lad from California who
experienced a profound aesthetic sight.

He had self-induced the trance for two purposes: to escape

from the pressures of society and to seek answers to
questions concerning the ever-lasting why of life.

His experiences began with a sensation of outer motion,

rotating from light to dark, to complete blackness. Then

44
gradually colors began to arise in floating, swaying ribbons
of light from seemingly endless depths of infinity.
Startlingly, these colors began to meld into a picture of
consummated joy and peace. It was beyond beauty, it was
visual ecstasy.

Such luminated colors, he explained, are foreign to

normal vision. Yet, his question was answered in a
mysterious way and in such a satisfying manner, that the
man who experienced this phenomenon claims his life has
been spiritually elevated since that day.

It has long been known that hypnosis greatly increases the

powers of Clairvoyance. Clairvoyance can occur from self-
induced hypnogogic trances, by a manner which is actually
a state of meditation. In other words, the subject does not
have to be asleep to experience the Clairvoyant events. Any
focus beyond normal consciousness involving the five
senses is an altered state of consciousness, as cited in the
following case of a ten year old girl who was in a garden of
the family estate.

She was seriously studying her geometry lesson, when

suddenly she saw a room, and in the room her mother lay
on the floor, from all appearances, her mother was dead.
The girl rushed into the house, summoned all the servants
and they went to her mothers room. The woman was
indeed lying on the floor, the victim of a sudden heart
attack. The family doctor was called at once, and the
mothers life was saved. Without the clairvoyant vision,

45
captured during a state of meditation, the woman would
have died.

MEDIUMISTIC TRANCES

Mediumistic trances are understood by parapsychologists

as a self-induced hypnogogic trance state which time the
medium surrenders himself to the powers beyond normal
awareness. Arthur Ford, the well-known medium,
explains the techniques of self-induction this way:

He lies down on a couch, or leans back in a comfortable

chair and begins to breathe in a slow, steady pattern, until
he feels an indrawing of energy centered at the solar
plexus. He than focuses his attention on the face of
Fletchers (Whom Ford claims is his spirit guide).
Generally, Ford says, Fletchers face presses closer until
their faces collide, at which time Ford feels himself actually
losing consciousness and when he awakes at the end of the
seance, Ford seems to remember nothing that has passed
through him. He describes the sensation as, Like a good
nap.

By similar procedures, some startling writings have come

through people in the form of automatic writing. Perhaps
the most startling case is that of Dr. John Ballou, a
graduate of both medical and dentistry. We are told that in
1882 the Doctor received an inspired message to go out and
purchase one of the then newly invented typewriting
machines. He was told to sit at the typewriter every day

46
without making any conscious effort to type, or even to
think, and that the work would be accomplished through
him. He was further instructed not to read a single word of
the copy that came through him until the work was
completed. Supposedly he carried out all the instructions to
the letter. The result was a book of over 800 pages, entitled,
OAHSPE, covering a history of the world, the universe,
the human race and even future events that will occur.

TIME DISTORTION

Time distortion is experienced during a hypnogogic state

and is perhaps one of the most difficult phenomena to
explain because the word seemed is always present, and
yet that word very cogently explains the experience. A
young pregnant woman had been trained under hypnosis to
face her delivery without fear. When the time for her travail
came, she was prepared for it and reported the entire even
later.

Her trip to the hospital, that was actually a twenty minute

ride from her home, seemed to require only seconds. Upon
reaching the hospital, the time taken to register her, escort
her to the maternity ward floor, and settle her in the labor
room, seemed to take only a few seconds, although these
preliminaries must have taken at least several minutes.
Once in the labor room, doctors and nurses seemed to dash
in and out of the room; beginning a new examination
almost before the current one had concluded. There she was
able to watch a clock and she reported that the minute hand

47
of the clock seemed to sweep around the dial like a second
hand.

When she was taken to the delivery room, the time literally
flew by, and it was then, the hour hand of the clock that she
could actually see in motion. In what seemed to be only a
few minutes. She had given birth to a healthy baby boy.
The entire duration of her labor was in reality three and a
half hours, and including the time from leaving her home
until the actual birth, that seemed to her like only minutes,
had encompassed nearly six hours.

In a hypnogogic trance state, then, the subject is able to

prolong a pleasant experience, and in the case above,
hasten one that is not particularly enjoyable.

AGE REGRESSION

In age regression a person is brought to a state of recall.

This is done either through induced hypnosis or during
hypnogogic sleep. The recall results from regression to an
early age, involving a rather stark experience that took
place in early childhood; and which was either deliberately
on unintentionally forgotten. But the mind, once it has
experienced, does not forget, and even if the subject has
subconsciously done so.

Claudia Stillson, a married woman of better than average

circumstances began to indulge in shop lifting. Always the
items she took were of no particular value, nor were they of

48
any use to her. Always, it was a piece of inexpensive
jewelry, usually a necklace. One day she was seen taking
just such an item, and she was actually arrested. She then
surrendered the thirty-some other necklaces that she had
acquired by the same method.

In despair, her husband rushed her to a doctor for

professional help. The doctor recognized the pattern of the
thefts as something obviously linked to an earlier event.

Under a trance state, Claudia was regressed to the age of

four, where she accomplished complete recall of an
unfortunate event. At that age she had been wrongly
accused of taking a necklace from a playmate. During the
hypnogogic trance she wept out the story that long had
been hidden in the deep channels of her mind.

REVIVIFICATION

Revivification is a state of recall where a person does more

than simply recall events. He actually relives them. In the
book called, Altered States Of Consciousness, edited by
Charles T. Tart, a case is reported where, Aldous Huxley
faced himself as a young man. The revivification occurred
when Huxley was fifty-two years of age.

Entranced, by the famous psychiatrist Milton Erickson,

Huxley saw himself seated on the edge of a ravine, looking
down onto a sandy area. On the sand lay a new born baby,
stretched out on its stomach. As Huxley continued to gaze

49
with intense interest at the baby, the child began to squirm
as though attempting to crawl. Which, within a short time,
he was actually doing.

Curiously, Huxley felt the puzzling experience of looking

at the sand and moving over it. Presently, the child began to
grow before Huxleys eyes. The baby developed from an
infant to a toddler, to school age, childhood, teen, and
early adulthood; until he stood, back turned, a young man
of twenty-three. During the development, Huxley
experienced every single emotion with the child involved.
He laughed with it, feared with it, wept with it, learned with
it, hoped with it, and totally understood every word and
action that took place.

Finally, he rose from the ravine, and walked over to the

young man, curious to see who this soul mate might be.
When he had closed the distance that had separated them,
the fifty-two year old Huxley and the young man stood
gazing at each other. Suddenly each recognized himself in
the other. Huxley at 52, looking at Huxley at 23. Neither
seemed particularly pleased with the other, both knew the
other in common up to the 23rd year of his experience. Both
tried to speak, but found that they could not separate the
voices.

Un-tranced Huxley was not particularly impressed with the

retelling of the story that he had related in minute detail
during the trance, merely because he could not remember
what had transpired.

50
EXTRA CEREBRAL MEMORY (ECM)

Extra Cerebral Memory or (ECM) is a term used to

describe alleged cases involving memories of a previous
life. There are many cases on record, but as yet there is no
scientific proof to substantiate even one case as authentic.

The most publicized case was the one involving a three and
a half year-old girl, who reportedly recognized her own
former home, nearby places of business and even people
she remembered. The case could hardly be called
concocted, since there were witnesses who heard the child
make certain statements in reference to places or things that
she could not have known in her present existence.

Naturally when such a story becomes public, the general

consensus of opinion immediately becomes
Reincarnation. There are other investigative reports that
claim otherwise. One is that in a specific expansion of
consciousness, a certain person can be tuned-in to an
unknown source of paranormal information. Some
investigators describe such case as paramnesia.

ASTRAL PROJECTION

Astral Projection is used to describe an out-of-the-body

experience.

51
The terminology may vary; researchers Carrington and
Muldoon called this phenomenon Exteriorization, while
Celia Green refers to am experience of this type as an
Ecsomatic experience. In any case, the astral body is the
etheric body that coincides every act, movement or deed
with the physical body in which it is housed.

It is possible, under certain hypnogogic conditions, to

project the astral body out from the physical body, but
much speculation exists as to the authenticity of some
reports of astral projection, particularly in the case of
dreams.

During dreams, it has been reported that both good and bad
deeds have been carried out through astral projection while
the physical body is asleep. In order to prove such cases as
genuine, there would have to be witnesses to both bodies,
the astral and the physical, while the projection was taking
place.

Even so, numerous cases have been reported by people of

unquestionable integrity, and must be believed. To describe
one ecsomatic experiences is almost to relate all of them on
record, for the similarity is remarkable. All seem to
develop in this manner:

Self-induced relaxation, followed by a sensation of floating

and ending with the physical body actually seeing the astral
body projected out from, or above the sleeping body. It is
also reported that the sleeping body sees the projected body
as well. Many subjects describe the final realization as

52
Sudden and claim a certain differentness after having
the experience, when the two bodies have again merged.

Late in 1970 a young medical student from Vancouver,

British Columbia, Canada, deliberately attempted an astral
projection. This case is perhaps unique because the subject
was in a standing position as opposed to most instances
where the body is in a recline or sitting position during the
out-of-the-body experience.

The student reported, however, that he was fully aware of

the sensation as the projection began. He described it in
terms of ..easy, effortless, and with no expected pull
on the physical body.

Once the projection had taken place, he felt himself glide

up towards the ceiling where he was able to look down and
examine himself from that vantage point. He also say that it
seemed a very natural appraisal, although he was actually
looking down at the top of his head. He further reported
that one thing was certain. His center of intellect and
concentration was outside the physical body, not within it.
From that description, we would have to accept the fact that
the mind is to the brain, what the soul is to the body.

53
 PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Expansion of Consciousness and Heightened Sensory
Awareness; hypnogogic trance states, self-induced.

We have all heard the warning, and perhaps even

whispered it to ourselves in moments of caution, to Slow
Down.

Those two words constitute good advice. Indeed it is wise

to cultivate periods of relaxation, temporarily cast of the
stigma of modern society that consists of noise, fret, and
tensions. Learn to expand your inner consciousness and
attune yourself to a range of vibrations outside the physical
limits of the corporeal sensory perception.

Approach expansion of consciousness thusly: Stand before

a mirror and induce complete state of relaxation. Look into
the mirror. Do not admire or criticize. Pretend the mirror
reflection is the real you and it is looking out at the other
you. If you can actually accomplish this much within a few
minutes, you have already induced a light form of self-
trance, or what is generally termed as a heightened sense
of awareness.

Now, with all conscious thought abandoned, allow your

inner senses to take over the subconscious mind. This is
exactly what happens during sleep periods.

54
Creativity, not only in the sense of planning a painting, a
musical composition, or a literary work, but also in the
nature of universal understanding, gradually expells itself.

By this stage of the self-induced state, no conscious thought

will occur: only natural awareness will come. Continue to
look from the mirror at the self-projected you. Think of
yourself, not as an all-consuming ego, but as a greater
sense of self in the nature of understanding yourself, and as
yourself in relationship to the entire universe.

While in this state, the subject is able to use, post-hypnotic

suggestion. This is also true of dream states, where insight
and recall are possible by post hypnotic suggestion.

PROCEDURES OF AUTO-SUGGESTION AND

HYPNOGOGIC TRANCE STATES

Once you have expanded your consciousness, you are

prepared to enter more fully into hypnogogic trance states.

Practice makes perfect. We all know that this is true in

every facet of our lives, and hypnosis is no exception.
When in the early stages of responding, the subject should
not try to hard to reach the deepest levels of self-induced
trances. Believing and having faith in the experiences will
create the desired results in due time. Unquestionably, the
use of hypnosis upon another person should be limited to
those qualified to conduct such tests.

55
A relaxed state of being creates a relaxed state of mind.
Therefore, in order to make the power of auto-suggestion
work, you must first be at ease. Recline in a comfortable
chair, or if you prefer to lie down on the sofa. Make sure
that you are completely at ease, your body totally relaxed.

Preferably, the room should be dark as possible. There

should be only one source of light in the room. Otherwise,
too much light may distract your eyes and mind.

Select an object that is in the room, for example a spot of

light on the fare wall, a picture, or even a door knob. Make
sure that your focal point is in the visual range of your
relaxed position. Moving, even slightly, could distract your
mind. Once you have selected a spot, do not change your
selection. Sit back, or lie back. Stare at the object. Do not
let your mind wander. Concentrate fully, on your focal
point, without actually thinking about it. Do not shift your
gaze.

While you are concentrating on the single item, continue to

imagine the complete relaxation of your body. Tell yourself
that your body is getting heavy. When your legs, arms and
head all feel at ease, keep repeating in your mind that your
limbs are becoming heavier and more relaxed. Slowly you
will feel it working.

Now, in your mind, say to yourself, in (here state a

predetermined time) I will wake up. I will feel relaxed and
refreshed.

56
Slowly, now, you will feel your breathing becoming more
pronounced. Do not fight this or you will lose your
attempted trance-like state. As the trance begins to unfold,
you will feel your eyes close.

While in this state, picture yourself, actually see yourself

on your mind screen, involved in a present experience. The
choice of imagination is very personal. See yourself
involved in the activity you enjoy the most. Visualize
nature in your mind. Watching yourself involved in
tranquil, pleasant surroundings will give you an inner rest
and joy that cannot be experienced at the conscious level.

At the time you stated you would wake (two minutes, ten
minutes, etc.), your eyes will open. Naturally, if you have
success with this experiment. You will want to try
something more advanced. Therefore, give yourself a
different duration of time when you next attempt expansion
of consciousness and see yourself performing a difficult
task, and one that although it is necessarily is not quite so
pleasant. This will instill confidence.

Most people use this method for creative insight, or

problem solving. They assume the same trance state, but
thinking at deep inner mind levels, they repeat their
problem, saying that when they awake, they will have some
sort of answer to their problem.

57
The trance state is a basic awakening of awareness in the
mind, and therefore, may be approached at various angles
and for various reasons.

58
CHAPTER
TWO

59
 CHAPTER TWO

The mind is its own place and in itself can make

a heaven of hell and hell of heaven.
John Milton (Paradise Lost)

Let us try and understand the functioning of the left and

right side of the brain.

THE LEFT SIDE

Conditioned
Active
Assertive
Logical

60
Deductive
Rational
Male aspects of character

THE RIGHT SIDE

The Subconscious linked to Super conscious

Imaginative
Intuitive
Receptive
Clairvoyant
Sadness
Female aspects of character

We are all aware that we have an inner mind which is

called, subliminal or subjective, or id or the
subconscious mind. Freud was one of the first who gave an
insight into the functioning of the subconscious mind
linking it with the causes of various diseases.

Dr. Carl Jung, a Swiss psychiatrist termed the spiritual

part of the mind as super conscious which was directly
connected to God.

The subconscious mind works like a computer. The

subconscious mind inspires, guides and is a permanent
store house of memory. Our mind remembers everything
that we see, feel and experience but to recall is difficult. It
is said that the subconscious mind has a memory capacity

61
of 70 to 100 trillion images because all our feelings,
emotions and experiences are stored within us as an image
or sound. Just as a computer digitizes everything, our brain
too does the same.

Subconscious mind never sleeps, never rests and is always

on duty because it controls our heartbeat, circulation of
blood, regulates digestion, assimilates, harmonizes and
eliminates. It controls all the vital processes and functions
of the body and knows the answers to all problems.

The objective mind learns from observation, experiences,

education and its great function is reasoning, whereas the
subjective mind performs its highest function when our
objective senses are in abeyance.

Thoughts are conveyed via the conscious mind to the

subconscious by impressions made in the brain cells like an
image or a movie. It uses every bit of information gathered
in out life time and draws all the energy and wisdom within
us to bring solutions to our problems.

Here is an example: Suppose one had been bitten by a dog

at the age of nine, one will continue to be scared of dogs
for the rest of her/his life viewing it from the childhood
experience. This is because our subconscious mind
remembers the incident. The conscious mind may forget
but the subconscious mind remembers in greatest detail
unless the event is cancelled from the memory.

62
The subconscious mind is always awake whether one is
asleep, unconscious, under drugs or alcohol effects or under
coma. One of its functions is to guard us from harm and
danger, yet ironically it also causes illness and even self
destruction.

The subconscious mind is infinite intelligence possessed by

man beyond time and space, and it helps us to receive new
thoughts, ideas, business plans, discoveries, inventions, and
knowledge of nature.

The subconscious mind has a habit of taking everything

literally. If we keep on thinking that we will never succeed
in a particular venture or task, it is most likely that we will
not because we are blocking all positive energy flowing
into the subconscious mind. This results only in negative
energy getting attracted. Therefore, it is we who are
responsible for our successes and failures in life. (Think
about this very carefully).

If we have conveyed an erroneous concept to our

subconscious mind the method of overcoming it is by
repetition of constructive and harmonious thoughts,
positive attitude and visualizing a happy ending rather than
negative thoughts and suggestions.

Scientists, researchers as well as medical doctors have all

recognized this fact about the mind hence, however
complex the operation maybe, they keep on encouraging
the patients just before an operation.

63
During the post operative period visitors are not allowed
near the patients because any negative suggestion given
will go deep into the patients subconscious mind thereby
damaging whatever had been done to rectify the patients
state of health through the operation.

It is very important that we do not use any negative

suggestions with growing children as it gets rooted in their
subconscious mind and reflects later in his/her behavior.
This effect can be seen in their behavior, hostility, anxiety,
lack of confidence, and so on. Whatever one believes in
ones mind is what experience physically in the outside
world. We have two sides of life objective-subjective,
visible-invisible, thought-manifestation.

Even prayers and beliefs are positive signals which we give

to our subconscious mind as something acceptable and true.
The thought which is acceptable as true will automatically
execute itself. When we believe we are healthy we will
remain healthy as our subconscious mind keeps our
immune system in perfect operating condition.

A friend of mine in India, Bhagwan Sathya Sai Baba, says

that Faith is the root of tree of mankind on which it
survives. Faith is the starting point of our spiritual and
mental process. In India, we can find umpteen examples of
faith, belief and superstitions. These can be explained
scientifically whereas many are blindly followed. Faith and
belief which are for our own and universal good are

64
acceptable. However, faith which brings injury to others,
either mental or physical is not acceptable.

Mr. Baba also told me that, we should develop a sense of

Viveka (discrimination) which will help us to demarcate
good and bad things. This demarcation comes from Jnana
(knowledge). If a child who utters bad words may not know
the meaning of it hence one should explain the meaning of
the word to him so that he does not repeat it again.

While we are praying we do not give any special thought

to negative conditions. This attitude of mind brings a
harmonious union of conscious and subconscious mind
which releases the healing power.

If you were in India, we would frequently visit temples and

shrines and we would pray. Temples and holy places have
positive energies due to the repetition of Gods name,
songs, mantras and so on, which soothe our mind. We feel
calm and respond in these places with openness. Our
subconscious mind unfolds the knot of our problems and
gives us the solutions that we require.

During every moment of our life we harbor more negative

energies than positive ones. Whatever we see around us
makes an impact on the subconscious mind and remains
deep rooted till reprogramming is done (just like in a
computer).

65
Dr. Bruce Goldberg, in his book has proved that the
subconscious mind does not only have memory of our
present life but also of the past lives that we have lived.
The subconscious mind may not want us to know anything
of the past as per the wisdom it possesses and may decide
not to give us any information at all of the past lives that
may affect our present life.

However, by scientific hypnosis and past life regression,

anyone can go back and witness their life as it was in the
past.

Some people having peculiar behavioral problems, have

been regressed to their past life to find the cause of the
problem in their present life. When the cause is healed the
problem disappears instantly.

The subconscious mind never grows old. It is ageless,

timeless and endless. Hence it is very important to develop
patience, kindness, humility, will power, responsibility of
oneself, peace, harmony, hope and brotherly love towards
every creation of God.

66
 HOW NEGATIVE ATTITUDES
AFFECT A PERSON

One parent used to tell his child almost everyday, You

will become a useless person and never become
something in life. When the child becomes an adult, he
was a failure in all aspects of life. Finally, he became a
priest and found solace. Parents should be cautious and
not use any negative words or any negative commands
while dealing with their children.
A school teacher used to motivate his pupils by saying,
Try and try again, you will succeed. Hard work and
pray to God for success. Thus her students turned out to
be toppers in academics and brought many laurels to the
school. The encouraging words of the teacher worked
like magic. (It is better to keep on encouraging,
rewarding and praising the children for slightest good
done by them.) After all there is a deep desire within all
of us to be appreciated.
A widow used to tell her daughter after puberty to be
careful of all men as they were cheats, opportunists and
sex maniacs. This really influenced her and she hated all
men till her late thirties until she met a loving and caring
man. She let go of her mothers influence. (The mother
had spoilt an innocent childs attitude towards men just
because she herself was a victim of terrible experiences).

67
 A young boy when caught masturbating by his father
was told that he would become insane. The boy became
impotent. Later his problem vanished after scientific
counseling and reassurance. (Often impotence is not an
organic defect but arises due to deep emotional guilt
which can be easily cured by reprogramming the
subconscious mind (Like a computer), through positive
affirmations.)
A man met with an accident and fractured his leg. He
happened to overhear his medical doctor saying that he
would never be normal again and that he would always
limp. This young man although clinically certified to be
fit, walked with a limp until he met a mind trainer who
succeeded in canceling the negative thought from his
mind.

There are innumerable examples to prove beyond doubt

that subconscious mind remembers the past life as well as
present. There is a chance that our conscious mind may
sometimes forget certain incidences but our subconscious
mind remembers everything. It also causes all the
emotional and physical disorders arising due to these deep
rooted memories.

Any passing comments or trivial statements can have a

devastating effect on our subconscious mind because it is
not argumentative or analytical. It accepts all the
statements directly on the face value.

It is very imperative that we do not become sad and

depressed as negative thoughts crowed the subconscious

68
mind, which could react immediately or maybe after
several years. It is the responsibility of elders and parents to
be very careful in using words when they are amidst
children in the formative years as during this time the mind
takes concrete shape for many years to come.

69
 SOME POSITIVE TIPS FOR
PERENNIAL HAPPINESS

If someone in the past has hurt you physically or

verbally, forgive him or her.
If someone tries to belittle you ignore them.
If someone you advise does not wish to listen to you,
leave that person to face his/her own fate.
If you help someone, do not except anything in return.
Conflicts between spouses or parent-children arises due
to very high expectations.
If you have a special talent or God gift do not become
egoistic and haughty about it or consider yourself
superior to others.
If someone is jealous of you and your worldly
achievements, sympathies with them.
Learn to channel your desire into a higher creative and
consciousness by adopting meditation.
Keep away from malice (or anything bad), as they will
not give you perpetual happiness.
Learn to set new goals in life as this will keep your life
interesting and full of zeal and zest.

70
 Let us remember that,

Life is a challenge, face it. Life is love,

enjoy it. Life is a song, sing it. Love is a common
denominator for all maladies in life. So we need to
develop unconditional love for everything,
our work, profession, family,
neighbors. God, and
all people that we
meet socially.

- Bhagwan Sathya Sai Baba

71
CHAPTER
THREE

72
 CHAPTER THREE

HYPNOSIS AND OTHER

THINGS EXPLAINES

Hypnosis is a wakeful state of focused attention and

heightened suggestibility, with diminished peripheral
awareness.

According to the American Psychological Associations

Division 30, hypnosis may bring about .changes in
subjective experiences, alterations in perception, sensation,
emotion, thought or behavior.

The hypnotic state may also facilitate changes in the body:

it has been successfully used as a treatment for irritable
bowl syndrome, as an alternative to chemical anaesthesia,
and it has been studied as a way to soothe skin ailments.

Skeptics point out the difficulty distinguishing between

hypnosis and placebo effect, proposing that the state called
hypnosis is: So heavily reliant upon the effects of
suggestion and belief that it would be hard to imagine how
a credible placebo control could ever be devised for a
hypnotism study.

73
Self-hypnosis is popularly used by people who want to
quite smoking, and reduce stress in their lives, while stage
hypnosis can be used to persuade people to perform
unusual public feats.

USES OF HYPNOSIS

Hypnosis had been studies in many clinical situations with

varying degree of success. It has been used as:

1. a painkiller,
2. an adjunct to weight loss,
3. a treatment for skin disease,
4. a way to soothe anxious surgical patients,
5. as part of psychological therapy,
6. a method of habit control,
7. a way to relax,
8. a way to enhance sport performance,
9. a way for people undergoing burn debridement,
10. bone marrow aspirations,
11. childbirth.
12. reducing stage fright,
13. enhancing well being.

74
 PHYSICAL APPLICATIONS
A large number of clinical studies show that hypnosis can
reduce the pain experienced by people undergoing burn-
wound debridement, bone marrow aspirations, and also
childbirth.

Hypno-birthing is one
popular application of
hypnosis.

The International Journal Of Clinical And Experimental

Hypnosis found that hypnosis relieved the pain of 75% of
933 subjects participating in 27 different experiments.

75
In 1996, the National Institute of Health declared hypnosis
effective in reducing pain from cancer and other chronic
conditions. Nausea and other symptoms related to
incurable diseases may also be controlled with hypnosis.
For example, research that was done at the Mt. Sinai
School of Medicine studied two groups of patients facing
surgery for breast cancer.

The group that received hypnosis reported less pain,

nausea, and anxiety post-surgery. There was a cost benefit
as well: the average hypnosis patient reduced the cost of
treatment by an average of $772.00.

Hypnodermotology is the practice of treating skin disease

with hypnosis: this therapy has performed well in studies
treating, warts, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.

Hypnosis may be useful as an adjunct therapy for weight

loss. A 1996 meta-analysis studying the effectiveness of
hypnosis combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy
found that people using both treatment lost more weight
than people using CBT alone.

76
 PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC
APPLICATIONS

Self-hypnosis (which is often called Autosuggestion)

happens when a person hypnotizes himself or herself. The
technique often used to help to stay on a diet, quite
smoking, reduce stress, or increase motivation.

People who practice self-hypnosis sometimes require

assistance when hypnotizing themselves; some people use
devices known as mind machines to help them go into self-
hypnosis, while other people use hypnotic recordings.

Self-hypnosis is said to be a skill one can improve as time

goes by, with benefits like reducing stage fright, relaxing,
and enhancing physical well being.

Hypnotherapy is in the use of hypnosis in psychotherapy. It

is used by licensed doctors, psychologists, and in stand-
alone environments. Physicians and psychiatrists may use
hypnosis to help treat depression, anxiety, eating disorders,
sleeping disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorders.

Certified hypnotherapists who are not physicians or

psychologists often do treatments for smoking cessations
and weight loss. (Success rate vary: a meta-study
researching hypnosis as a quit-smoking tool found it had a
30 to 30 percent success rate, similar to many other quit-

77
smoking methods, while a 2007 study of patients
hospitalized for cardiac and pulmonary ailments found that
smokers who used hypnosis to quit smoking doubled their
chances of success.

In a July 2001 article for Scientific America titled, The

Truth and the Hype of Hypnosis, Micheal Nash, wrote
that . Using hypnosis, scientists have temporarily
created hallucinations, compulsions, certain types of
memory loss, false memories, and delusions in the
laboratory so that these phenomena can be studied in a
controlled environment.

The American Medical Association and the American

Psychological Association have cautioned against the use
of repressed memory therapy in cases of alleged childhood
trauma, stating that, it is impossible, without other
corroborative evidence, to distinguish a true memory from
a false one, and so the procedure is fraught with
problems of potential misapplication.

Past life regression, practiced by some hypnothetapists, is

often viewed with skepticism.

78
 Professor Charcot of Paris Salpetriere
demonstrated hypnosis on a hysterical patient,
Blanche (Marie) Wittman, who is supported
by Dr. Joseph Babinski.

79
 OTHER USES

Robin Waterfield, wrote in his 2002 book called, Hidden

Depth: The Story Of Hypnosis, that a person can act,
some time later, on a suggestion seeded during the
hypnotic session A hypnotherapist told one of his
patients, who was also a friend: When I tough you on the
finger you will immediately be hypnotized. Fourteen years
later, at a dinner party, he touched him deliberately on the
finger and his head fell back against the chair.

Influencing crowds through common longing and yearning

by a damagogue is called Mass hypnosis. Many forms of
music and dance can be used to create religious trance.

Due to stage hypnotists / showmanship, many people

believe hypnosis is caused by the hypnotists power.
However, the real power of the hypnosis comes from the
trust the hypnotist can instill in his subjects. They have to
be willingly grant him the ability to take over their critical
thinking.

The desire to be the center of attention, having an excuse to

violate their own inner fear suppressors and the pressure to
please are thought to convince subjects to Play along.

80
Hypnotism has also been used in forensics, sports,
education, physical therapy and rehabilitation and other
things.

81
 BRIEF, HOW HYPNOSIS WORKS

Twentieth-Century Psychological Theories

In the twentieth century, phychologists who believed in

hypnosis put forth theories about it ranging from the idea
that it is Partial Sleep to the idea that it is Hyper-
suggestibility. Other psychologists, skeptical of hypnosis,
hypothesized that the phenomenon doesnt really exist, that
so-called hypnosis believers included Pierre Janet, who
proposed that hypnosis is a form of dissociation, meaning
that hypnotized people are less identified with sensory
information and their own conscious minds; Ivan
Pavlov, who thought that hypnosis was a partial sleep
dominated by lower-brain-stem mechanisms; William
Kroger, who hypothesized that hypnosis is a type of
hyper-suggestibility brought about by focused attention;
and J.D. Morgan, who put forth the idea that hypnosis is a
process of enchanting or depressing the activity of the
nervous system, possibly by involving the feedback loops.

Skeptics included psychologist Robert Baker and

Graham Wagstaff, who have claimed that the state called
hypnosis is actually a form of learned social behavior, a
complex hybrid of social compliance, relaxation, and
suggestibility. Another skeptic was the psychologist

82
Nicholas Spanos, who championed the idea that hypnotic
procedures influenced behavior indirectly by altering
subjects motivations, expectations and expectations and
interpretations.

83
 BRAIN IMAGING

In the last decade, brain scanning technology had made it

possible to observe hypnosis effects in the brain. PET
scan, fMRI scans, and EGG coherence measures have
shown that hypnotic hallucinations can elicit the same brain
activitry as real experiences.

PET scan of a healthy

human brain.

Stated another way, the brain scan of a highly hypnotized

person is the same whether they are seeing real colors or
being told, under hypnosis, that grayscale drawings are
colored.

Another research example compared specific neural

activity . During Stroop task performance between

84
participants of low and high hypnotic susceptibility. At
baseline and after hypnotic induction.

According to the authors the fMRI data revealed the

conflict-related ACC activity interacted with hypnosis and
hypnotic susceptibility, in that highly neural activity in the
hypnosis condition compared to baseline, as well as with
respect to subjects with low susceptibility.

Micheal Nash, said in a Scientific American: in 1998,

Henry Szechtman of McMaster University in Ontario, and
his co-workers used PET to image the brain activity of
hypnotized subjects who were invited to imagine a
scenario and who then experienced a hallucination . By
monitoring regional blood flow in areas activated during
both hearing and auditory hallucinations but not during
simple imagining, the investigators sought to determine
where in the brain a hallucinated sound is mistakenly
tagged as authentic and originating in the outside world.
Szechtman and his colleagues imaged the brain activity of
eight very hypnotized subjects who had been prescreened
for their ability to hallucinate under hypnosis.. The tests
showed that a region of the brain called the right anterior
cingulate cortex was just as active while the volunteers
were hallucinating as it was while they were actually
hearing the stimulus. In contrast, that brain area was not
active while the subject were imagining that they heard the
stimulus.

85
CHAPTER
FOUR

86
 CHAPTER FOUR

21 DAYS TO A YOUNGER YOU

by ROD KELLY, Ch, Mht.

SELF-HYPNOSIS
Healthy Directions - Aug/Sept 2008 Issue

WHAT EVER THE MIND BELIEVES BECOMES

ITS OWN TRUTH. WHAT EVER YOU BELIEVE
TO BE TRUTH, BECOMES YOUR OWN REALITY.
SO, WHY NOT START ON CHANGING YOUR OWN
BELIEF SYSTEMS, AND ALLOW YOURSELF TO
BEING DEFYING THE AGEING PROCESS?

What ever the mind believes becomes its own truth. Why is
it that when you reach the age of forty fifty or even
sixty your body has to begin deteriorating? Or, does it?

How often have you seen, or even perhaps known men or

women that were well into their sixties, and still, through
their zest for life, maintained a strong body, that seemed to
defy the aging process?

Have you ever wondered what they had that you dont?
Ever wondered why cant you have a more youthful
appearance?

87
It all boils down to your own personal belief system. You
believe that just because the dates on the calendars have
flipped many times, that you have to accept the fact that
you are getting old. In truth, old is just a state of mind.
What ever you believe to be truth, becomes your own
reality. So, why not start on changing your own belief
systems, and allow yourself to begin defying the aging
process?

The question is, how do you begin to do this? Well it starts

with getting rid of some of the garbage thinking that has
caused you to feel like an old crony.

METHOD

To begin with, I want you to sit quietly in your chair, and

take a very deep breath in, through your nose hold it for
a moment, and exhale through an open mouth expending
all of the air that is in your lungs. And hold it, then repeat it
three times.

You may experience a bit of light-headedness, but thats

OK. Now, with each breath, that you blow out, allow all the
tensions that you are holding to simply flow out with your
breath, so you relax more and more with each exhalation.

Now, think back to when you feel that you were at your
absolute pinnacle of health, and vitality. Notice how strong
you looked and felt.

88
With your hands on your lap, while you are still focusing
your thoughts on the more youthful you, repeat the
following phrase, Every day, in every way, my body
becomes stronger and more youthful. And my mind
supports this completely.

Repeat this ten times, using your fingers, pressing into your
thighs to keep track of the count.

How do you feel? How does your mind feel? How does
your body feel? This is the first step in altering your own
thoughts about the aging process. To have this become your
own new reality, you have to make a very strong
commitment to yourself.

For the nest twenty-one (21) days, you have to make a total
commitment that each night, just before you go to sleep,
you sit on the side of your bed, and go through this
exercise, to a full count of ten, each and every consecutive
night for the full twenty-one (21) days. Repeat it when you
wake up in the morning and perhaps a couple of times
during the day. You will be amazed at the results it has on,
not only your mind, but your body as well. You are
beginning to alter your own belief system and you truly are
becoming more youthful.

Dont forget though, that when you were in your prime,

you were active continually .. now begin living the part.

89
Become that person that defies the aging process, and let
others look at you in admiration.

90
CHAPTER
FIVE

91
 CHAPTER FIVE

HYPNOSIS AND OCCULT

RESOURCES

There is a very fine line between the fields of hypnosis and

influences or even the skill of persuasion. You may know
how to get someone into a relaxed state and offer
suggestions (Read below to see more on this) or even be
able to hypnotize yourself (Self-Hypnosis), but when it
comes to persuade a person and be able to make him
believe that whatever you are saying is true seems like
magic.

92
 HOW TO HYPNOTIZE
SOMEONE

Here are a few steps that will help you to hypnotize

someone:

Step 1: First make the person comfortable, help him to

relax and slow down his stream of thought. This will take
him to an alpha state of mind which makes it easier to
hypnotize a person.

Step 2: Slowly and slowly you have to make the person

fully relax his body and to melt away the stress and strains
in the body. Using progressive relaxation is suggested in
this case. If you dont know what is progressive relaxation,
I have explained it below.

Step 3: Now you need to take him into a deeper and more
relaxed states of mind, such as the theta and delta states.
You can do this by giving him some sort of a visual
suggestion such as he is floating like a feather or that he is
coming down a long stair case and with each step he is
going into deeper and deeper states of mind and getting
more and more relaxed.

93
 JUST SOME LITTLE TOUCH
UPS ON HYPNOSIS

Under hypnosis, the subject is fully alert, in fact more alert

than usual. The term Hypnosis actually is derived from
the Greek word Sleep but the individual under hypnosis
is not asleep or unconscious and is in fact more alert than
ever. If you change money, to a cure for anxiety, or stress,
or phobia, or smoking, or losing weight, or nail biting, or
marital problems, or excessive drinking, or blushing, or
headaches, or pain, or a whole host of other physical and
psychological problems then what you have in the opening
paragraph is what most people expect from hypnosis.

On the other hand hypnotherapy is a great way to unlock

the potential of the subconscious mind and can be taught to
use alone, at will and without complicated procedures.
With Ericksonian Hypnosis, we use little stories, which
are called Metaphors, to present suggestions and ideas to
the subconscious mind. And with Traditional Hypnosis,
we simply make direct suggestions to the unconscious
mind.

With self-hypnosis CD, the difference might just be a few

words that are uttered by the hypnotherapist. I remember
reading a magazine article that mentioned hypnosis and the
fact that CDs and audio taps were available over the

94
counter, which is true because more and more people are
becoming hypnotists.

Self hypnosis either with the use of a self hypnosis CD or

without any aid whatsoever is a technique that can not only
assist stress reduction and encourage more and longer
lasting feelings of relaxation it can also help alleviate the
causes of the problems or issues.

With a Hypnosis CD or MP3 on the other hand the quality

of them is consistent. Where a good public speaking
hypnosis CD can help is in using the power of the
imagination for and not against, the person. All of this
means that the quality of a therapy session will vary
dramatically.

Now, since a hypnotist is by definition, a stress

management consultant and a motivational coach, all of the
above challenges can be powerfully addressed by using
hypnosis but please note the following: A hypnotist is only
part of your diabetes support team. Again a hypnotist
helps a person to reduce their feelings of stress, they can
then help that person to strengthen their inner commitment
to making better food choices.

You and your hypnotist will work to, Reprogram the

subconscious side of you. In practice a hypnotist will plant
suggestions in your mind, while you are in a deep state of
relaxation.

95
Going into a trance is something that we learn and we are
taught when a hypnotist talks to us, and talks us down from
the stress of the thoughts that fly here, there and
everywhere, into a relaxed state of clarity, and peace, where
your body is at ease and mind healing can finally begin.
And this is as easy as sitting down in a chair, putting on the
headphones and letting the hypnotist do their job.

96
CHAPTER
SIX

97
 CHAPTER SIX

DO IT YOURSELF!

. Hypnosis can help adult patients control other forms

of pain, relieve gastrointestinal problems, stimulate weight
loss, clear up skin problems, and accelerate the healing of
bone fractures and surgical wounds.
The Consumer Report

Self-Hypnosis

Even though it can be helpful, you do not need a highly-

trained hypnotist to induce hypnosis.

With the proper relaxation and concentration techniques,

almost everyone can enter a hypnotic state themselves and
deliver their own suggestions to the subconscious mind.

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. Whether a trance state is

brought on by a long, drive down a stretch of road or by a
skilled hypnotist, you are always the one who initiates the
state of trance.

98
This incredibly powerful technique will help you reduce
your dependency on outside sources and get you to
establish more control in your life. There is no greater
suggestion than self-suggestion. So learn how to hypnotize
yourself. NOW!

Hypnosis can help . A growing body of research

supports the ancient practice as an effective tool in
the treatment of a variety of problems, from anxiety
to chronic pain.
NewsWorld

99
 DISPELLING THE MYTHS

ITS A CHOICE!

As I have mentioned early in this book. When we hear the

word hypnosis, we often picture the person of mystery and
evil made popular by Hollywood and television. We get
images of someone waving a pocket watch back and forth,
guiding his subject into sleep-like state where the person
are now under the control and influence of his mesmerizing
voice. Muttering something, Yes responses in
acknowledgement of every command the hypnotist
delivers. The representation, however, hardly resembles the
true art of hypnosis. In fact, hypnosis today is understood
and practiced in a very different way. Contrary to popular
belief hypnotic subjects are not under a spell. In fact, they
have absolute free will throughout the entire process and
can return to a conscious state whenever they choose.
Hypnosis is a choice.

HOW TRANCE OCCURS

Hypnosis has always been a mystery. In fact,

psychoanalysts have been studying the science of hypnosis

100
for hundreds of years and have yet to formulate a
conclusive explanation of how it actually occurs. This said,
however, many of the common characteristics of being in a
hypnotic state has been well documented, and hypnotists
today have access to a very effective model of application
of hypnosis techniques. I have stated in previous chapters
how trance states occur.

101
CHAPTER
SEVEN

102
 CHAPTER SEVEN
RESEARCH

THE STATE / NON-STATE DEBATE

A core component of many theories of hypnosis is that it

constitutes an altered state of consciousness (ASC),
qualitatively different from normal waking consciousness.
Whether hypnosis requires an altered state of consciousness
has been the core of a debate central to academic study of
hypnosis and has come to be known as the altered state
debate. Protagonists tend to be termed state or non-
state depending on their theoretical orientation. State
theorists hold that hypnosis is an altered state of
consciousness whereas non-state theorists argue that the
effects of suggestions can be experienced with or without
the prior administration of a hypnotic induction and ask
what is the necessity for an altered state?

One important factor to note when considering non-state

theories is that they do not imply that subjects are always
faking, or not truly experiencing a hypnotic response.
Although non-state explanations use terms such as role
enactment or self-presentation they are still entirely

103
consistent with the notion that hypnotized participants have
unusual experiences. One of the most eloquent defenses of
this position comes from Spanos (1989):

For instance, to describe a man as enacting the role of

concerned husband does not imply that the mans
display of concern are necessarily feigned. By the same
token, the sauce-cognitive view does not hold that hypnotic
subjects who report lessened pain following an analgesia
suggestion must be experiencing higher levels of pain than
they report, or that those who fail to report target items
covered by an amnesia suggestion must be privately
rehearsing the very items they fail to divulge. On the
contrary, the sauce-cognitive perspective attempts to
account for how, and under what circumstances, hypnotic
subjects come to convince themselves as well as others that
they are unable to remember, unable to bend their arms,
and the like.

WHAT IS AN ULTERED STATE OF

CONSCIOUSNESS?

An altered state of consciousness is any which differs

significantly from a normal or baseline state of
consciousness. Some believe that key characteristics of a
baseline state of consciousness included the psychological
sense of the self at the center of ones perception, and a

104
sense that the self is identified with ones body. In contrast
to this baseline state, Detroit (2003) gives a description of
a typical altered state of consciousness: a sense of
timelessness, denial of self, little if any self-reflection and
analysis, little emotional content, little abstract thinking, no
planning, and a sensation of unity.

One difficulty concerns how to assess some of these

concepts. Any aspect of brain function that we can measure
will change continuously, a difficulty comes with deciding
how much a measure would have to change from baseline
to be considered altered.

WHAT IS ESSENTIALLY HYPNOTIC?

If we are attempting to determine whether hypnosis is an

altered state of consciousness, or trying to find brain
activity or some other marker which underpins hypnosis,
we must be very clear about precisely what we mean by
hypnosis.

NOT JUST RELAXATION - evidence from active alert

hypnosis

One confounding factor which we must account for is that

of relaxation. Banyai & Hilgard (1976) published an
experiment comparing two different types of hypnotic

105
induction. In one participants received a traditional
induction, with suggestions for relaxation. In the second
condition participants rode a stationary exercise bicycle.
Both techniques were said to produce equivalent levels of
suggestibility, and thus relaxation cannot be considered to
be an essential component of hypnosis. The efficacy of the
active-alert induction has subsequently been supported by
Miller et al (1991) in a study comparing the efficacy of
pain reduction suggestions following a traditional or active
alert induction.

EFFORTLESSNESS

The classic suggestion effect as described by

Weitzenhoffer (1980) is that hypnotized individuals
typically report that suggested effects seemed to happen
effortlessly, or involuntarily. Whether the processes
underlying suggestion really are effortless, or are just
perceived as being effortless, is the matter of some debate
(Ruehle & Zamansky), (1997), and is the key underlying
point of contention between a number of theories of
hypnosis.

BEHAVIOURAL STUDIES

Behavioural studies comparing the behaviour of hypnotised

and unhypnotised subjects responding to suggestions have

106
been the mainstay of 20th century research into state
effects. A number of interesting methodologies including
the real-simulator design, have been developed to
investigate hypnotic phenomenon. Interestingly it has been
found that there is often very little difference in terms of
response to suggestions between hypnotised and
unhypnotised subjects, this has led some to conclude that
the hypnotic state is an irrelevance, while others believe
that any response to suggestions fall within the domain of
hypnosis.

Some recent studies are relevant to the state / non-state

debate:

Gandhi et al (2005) - Would hypnosis by any other name

smell as sweet? This study tested the effects of the same
induction, labeled in different ways, upon suggestibility
(measure with items from the Waterloo Stanford Group
Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility).

Raz et al (2006) - Tested the effect of the addition of a

hypnotic induction upon a suggestion to reduce the Stroop
effect. Concluded that the suggestive reduction of the
Stroop interference is accomplished regardless of whether
hypnosis is induced.

NEUROIMAGING STUDIES

107
Neuroimaging studies, which began with EEG and which
have developed in to PET and fMIR methodologies, offer
promises in discovering more about how response to
suggestion is mediated by the brain. At least two clear
methodological approaches have been used to tackle the
issue. The first examines brain activity in individuals as
they become hypnotised - this approach characterises the
early EEG studies. A later approach examines brain activity
in response to tasks conducted in and outside hypnosis, the
aim is to assess whether responses to suggestions are
processed differently when in hypnosis - later ERP, PET
and fMIR studies have tended to take this approach.

108
 THEORIES
Beginning with Mesmers advancement that a magnetic
ether explained the effects he observed, theorists have tried
to explain the mechanisms underlying hypnosis. It is now
generally accepted that any adequate theory of hypnosis
must use concepts compatible with general psychological
models of consciousness.

The key theories, historical and current, concerning

hypnosis are presented here below. For the most current
models some knowledge of psychology is useful since the
models are presented within that framework. Within
psychology most current models of what is termed
executive function makes use of the concept of an
executive control system (Norman & Shallice, 1980/86) -
a description of what is meant by executive control is given
here.

DISSOCIATED CONTROL THEORY (DCT)

Bower (1992) / Woody & Bowers (1994)

This theory applies the Norman and Shallice model of
executive control to explain hypnotic responding. When
highly hypnotizable individuals are hypnotized the DCT

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model proposes that the SAS has become functionally
dissociated from the CS - that is, these two levels cease to
work together effectively. With the higher level control
system partly disabled when high-hypnotizables are
hypnotized, the individual is more dependent upon CS-
based automatic processes. Contextual cues and influence
from the hypnotist influences the contention scheduling
system, and this determines the hypnotized persons
experience.

A number of studies have been conducted to test

hypotheses generated by DCT and are reviewing in more
detail in Jamieson & Wood (2007). One study using a
difficult version of the Stroop task (difficult so that it
should require strong SAS involvement) found that highly
susceptible individuals in hypnosis produced more errors
than low hypnotizables - a result predicted by DCT.
However, some other studies have found that evidence for
enhanced attentional control under hypnosis - contrary to
what DCT would predict. Jamieson & Wood (2007)
concluded that current data do not support a simple global
shutdown of frontal functioning during hypnosis.

SOCIAL-COGNITIVE THEORY / RESPONSE SET

THEORY

Lynn, Rhue & Weeks (1990) / Kirsch & Lynn (1997)

This theory argues that the experience of effortlessness in

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hypnosis results from participants motivated tendencies to
interpret hypnotic suggestions as not requiring active
planning and effort, i.e. the experience of effortlessness
stems from attributional error. The attribution of volition
depends on the kind of response-set which has been put
into place.
Implementation intentions are a representation of the
form: When x happens, I will do y
whereas response expectancies are representation of the
form: When x happens, y will occur
Kirsch and Lynn (1997) proposed that subjects in a
hypnotic situation hava generilized response expectancy
that they will follow the hypnotists instructions and
produce behaviours that are experienced as involuntary. A
consequence of this is that these subjects attribute hypnotic
responses to external causes and experience them as
involuntary. According to this theory hypnotic responses
are initiated by the same mechanisms as voluntary
responses, the difference is in how the behaviours are
experienced.

One important factor to note when considering socio-

cognitive theories of this sort is that they do not imply that
subjects are always faking, or not really experiencing a
hypnotic response. Although these models use terms such
as role enactment or self-presentation they are still
entirely consistent with the notion that hypnotized
participants have unusual experiences.

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NEODISSOCIATION THEORY (Hilgard, 1979, 1986)

Hilgard (1979, 1986)

Hilgards Neodissociation theory proposed that hypnotic
phenomenon are produced through a dissociation with in a
high level control systems (note that this is unlike the
dissociation between high and low control systems in
dissociated control theory). Essentially, the hypnotic
induction is said to split the functioning of the executive
control system (ECS) into different streams.

Part of the ECS functions normally, but is unable to

represent itself in conscious awareness due to the presence
of an amnesic barrier. Hypnotic suggestions act on the
dissociated ECS and the subject is aware of the results of
the suggestions, just not the process by which they came
about.

Hilgards theory was inspired by his experiments with the

hidden observer phenomenon whereby a hidden part of
the mind of the subject experiencing suggested hypnotic
analgesia could be encouraged to elicit reports of the true
pain experience. The hidden observer remains a
controversial notion and is still the topic of investigation,
the idea that the hidden observer demonstrates the presence
of conscious and unconscious executive systems in
hypnosis is controversial (Heap et la, 2004; Kirsch &
Lynn 1998).

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NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL THEORY

Crawford & Gruzelier (1992) / Gruzelier (1998)

These models proposes the highs have better executive
functions than lows and can thus deploy their attention in
different ways. Gruzelier (1998) presents a model of
hypnosis characterized by changes in brain functions. The
model is described in three stages, each with its own
characteristic pattern of brain activity. Like some of the
other dissociation theories Gruzeliers account emphasises
that changes in the way the attentional control system
functions in hypnosis renders the subject more susceptible
to suggestions. In the first stage of the induction the subject
pays close attention to the words of the hypnotist and
activity is increased in predominantly left-side fronto-
limbic brain regions. In the second stage the subject lets
go of controlled attention and gives control to the
hypnotist. In this second stage there is a reduction in the
frontal activity. The third stage sees an increase in right-
side temporo-posterior systems as the subject engages in
passive imagery. By exhausting their frontal abilities during
the induction the highs end up frontally impaired in a
hypnotic state (Dienes & Perner, 2007).

Gruzeliers model finds some support from behavioural and

neurophysiological evidence and complements other state-
like accounts of hypnotic functioning. However,
interpretations of much of the evidence critical to such

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models is questioned by sociocognitive theorists (e.g.
Wagstaff, 2004). Crucially, the predictions of enhanced
executive skills in high hypnotizables are testable.

INTEGRATIVE COGNITIVE THEORY

Brown & Oakley (2004) / Brown (1999) / Oakley (1999)

Placing emphasis on the nature of perception and
consciousness, Brown & Oakley (2004) incorporated the
idea from both dissociated control and response set
theories. They include the DCT concept that suggested
responses may be facilitated by an inhibition of high-level
attention, and the response-set idea that suggested
involunariness is an interpretation or attribution about the
causes of behaviours.

COLD CONTROL THEORY

Dienes & Perner (2007)

This recent theory considers the distinction between control
and awareness in terms of Rosenthals (2002) HOT (higher
order thought) theory. According to Rosenthal we are
conscious of mental states by having thoughts about those
states. A thought about being in a mental state is a second-
order thought (SOTs) are also possible, by becoming aware

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of mental state (e.g. I see that the cat is black). The cold
control theory of hypnosis states that a successful response
to hypnotic suggestions can be achieved by forming an
intention to perform the action or cognitive activity
required, without forming the HOTs about intending that
action that would normally accompany reflective
performance of the action.

DISSOCIATED-EXPERIENCE THEORY

Kihlstrom (1985)

Argues that hypnotisables execute hypnotic responses

effortfully, but that this effort is dissociated, or blocked,
from consciousness.

EGO-PSYCHOLOGICAL THEORY

Fromm (1979, 1992)

Based on Shors idea that the depth of a hypnotic trance is
related to the degree to which the participant loses
awareness of the distinction between imagination and
reality, termed the generalized reality orientation which is
characteristic of normal psychological functioning.
Distinguishes between primary processes such as
(emotional, holistic, illogical, unconscious, developmental

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immature) and secondary processes such as (affect-free,
analytical, logical, conscious, developmentally mature).
Whereas normal adults functioning is biased towards
secondary processing the induction of hypnosis makes the
subject let go of some secondary process activity. Heap
et al (2004) characterise the evidence for ego-
psychological theory as mixed.

NEUROIMAGING STUDIES

Neuroimaging studies of hypnosis and hypnotic phenomena

are a particularly interesting avenue of investigation as they
can sidestep the demand characteristics problem common
to such hypnosis research. Like other hypnosis research,
neuroimaging studies can be divided according to whether
they are instrumental and intrinsic (Reyher, 1962;
Barnier &
McConkey, 2003; Oakley, 2006). Instrumental studies use
hypnosis or suggestions as a research tool to investigate
specific phenomenon, whereas intrinsic studies focus more
on what is special about hypnosis.

Intrinsic

Rainville et al (1999)

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conducted PET scans before and after a hypnotic induction
(in the absence of suggestion), and also with hypnotic
suggestions for pain modulation.

Rainville et al (2000)
examined perceived mental relaxation and mental
absorption using PET, before and after a hypnotic
induction.

Egner et al (2005)
examined attentional abilities in low and high
hypnotizables at baseline, and following a hypnotic
induction.

Oakley et al (2007)
investigated the neural correlates of a hypnotic induction in
fMIR.

Instrumental

Rainville et al (1997)
used hypnotic suggestion to modulate the unpleasentness
but not the intensity of a painful stimulus.

Szechtman et al (1998)
used hypnotic suggestions to produce auditory
hallucinations

Kosslyn et al (2000)

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used hypnotic suggestion to produce positive and negative
colour hallucinations.

Willoch et al (2000)
used hypnosis to produce phantom limb pain.

Schulz-Stubner et al (2004)
studied pain responses before and after a hypnotic
induction.

Derbyshire, et al (2004)
used hypnotic suggestions to generate pain in the absence
of noxious stimuli.

Raij et al (2005)
used hypnotic suggestions to generate pain in the absence
of noxious stimuli.

Raz et al (2005)
used posthypnotic suggestions affecting participants
ability to read, which knocked out the Stroop effect.

Roder et al (2007)
used hypnosis to study the experience of pain during
hypnotically produced depersonalisation. Found reduced
pain related activation in the depersonalisation condition.

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CHAPTER
EIGHT

119
 CHAPTER EIGHT

MEASUREMENT OF HYPNOSIS

One of the key developments in 20th century hypnosis

research was the development of sales for the reliable
measurement of hypnotic susceptibility. A persons
susceptibility to hypnosis is usually gauged as high,
medium or low. Approximately 80% of the population
are medium, 10% are high and 10% are low. Being able to
reliably assess hypnotic susceptibility has allowed
researchers to study hypnosis and its correlates in the
laboratory.

HYPNOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY SCALES

The hypnotic susceptibility scales consist of a number of

test suggestions which participants can either pass or fail.
Suggestions are either for motor (ideomotor) or cognitive
effects, and either aim to produce or inhibit an effect.
Examples of a number of hypnotic susceptibility scales
were available at hypnoscales.org but the site currently
seems to be down.

A key point is that a classic suggestion effect

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(Weitzenhoffer, 1980) posits that a suggestion must be
experienced as involuntary, that is, it should feel like it is
happening by itself.

There is currently some debate as to what hypnotizability

scales actually measure. Kirsch and Braffman (2001),
have pointed out that traditional scales (e.g. Harvard,
Stanford) measure responsivity to suggestion in hypnosis.
However, this does not take into account the fact that
people also respond to suggestions without a hypnotic
induction. Kirsch proposed that responsivity to suggestion
be termed imaginative suggestibility, that responsivity to
suggestion following a hypnotic induction be termed
hypnotic suggestibility, and that the difference between
the two be termed hypnotizability.

SUGGESTIONS

Susceptibility scales typically contain a number of test

suggestions which the participant will either pass or fail.
Test suggestions are either motor or cognitive and also
either positive or negative in nature. A positive motor
suggestion would be trying to produce a motor effect, e.g. a
suggestion that the participants arm will raise all by itself.
A negative motor suggestion would be aimed at inhibiting a
willed motor action, e.g. a suggestion that the participant
will not be able to open their eyes (traditionally called
Eyelid Catalepsy). Cognitive suggestions are aimed at

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producing or inhibiting perceptions or sensations. An
example of a positive cognitive suggestion would be a
visual hallucination of someones best friend. A negative
cognitive suggestion might be where it is suggested that a
participant cannot hear (hypnotic deathness).

VARIOUS SCALES

The gold standard of hypnosis scales is currently

considered to be the Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility
Scale. This scale is administered individually and consists
of a hypnotic induction followed by twelve test

122
suggestions. In research situations a group scale is often
used to test large numbers of people best practice is then to
follow up high and low scorers with an individual
administered scale.

Many suggestibility scales have been developed, with

varying properties. The most common scales are listed here
below:

1. Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale: Forms A and B

(SHSS: A and B)
2. Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale: Form C (SHSS:
C)
3. Stanford Profile Scales Of Hypnotic Susceptibility:
Forms 1 and 2
4. Revised Stanford Profile Scales of Hypnotic
Susceptibility: Forms 1 and 2
5. Childrens Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale (CHSS)
6. Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility: Form A
(HGSHS: A)
7. Stanford Hypnotic Clinical Scale for Adults (SHCS:
Adult)
8. Stanford Hypnotic Clinical Scale for Children (SHCS:
Child)
9. Stanford Hypnotic Arm Levitation Induction and Test
(SHALIT)
10. Barber Susceptibility Scale (BSS)
11. Creative Imagination Scale (CIS)
12. Hypnotic Induction Profile (HIP)

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13. Carlton University Responsiveness to Suggestions
Scale (CURSS)

PROPERTIES OF HYPNOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY

Hypnotic susceptibility is generally thought to be a trait

which remains stable over time. High levels of test-retest
reliability have been observed over period of 10 (Hilgard,
1965) and 25 years (Piccione et al, 1989). A study
assessing the hypnotizability of monozygotic (MZ) and
dizygotic (DZ) twins found a correlation of 0.52-0.63 for
MZ, but only 0.08-0.18 for DZ twins, indicating the
presence of a genetic component (Morgan, 1973). Some
preliminary results have suggested that the presence or
absence of two sub-type of the COMT gene can predict
hypnotic susceptibility, although these results only held for
men and remain to be replicated (Lichtenberg at al, 2000).
Similarly, a preliminary findings have been reported of an
increased volume of the rostrum, a region of the corpus
callosum, in high hypnotizables (Horton et al, 2004).

Some researchers argue against the idea that hypnotizability

is a trait, and present evidence demonstrating that hypnotic
responsivity can be modified (they argue that hypnotic
responsiveness is stable unless attempts at change are
made). There is disagreement about the magnitude to which
hypnotizability can be affected (e.g. Benham et al, 1998;
Spanos, 1986).

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 CORRELATES OF HYPNOTIC
SUGGESTIBILITY

Ever since the development of measures of hypnotic

suggestibility researchers have looked for other personality
characteristics which might predict how susceptible
someone will be to hypnosis. In a typical correlation study
subjects will complete a number of questionnaires
measuring varying personality characteristics and will then
undergo an assessment of hypnotic suggestibility
(commonly a group assessment - correlational studies
require a large N and it is time consuming to administer a
large number of assessments).

The two tables below illustrate a variety of measures which

have been used in correlational studies.

Measures which may correlate with hypnotic

susceptibility

Absorption (Tellegen & Atkinson, 1974; de Groh, 1989)

Fantasy proneness (Lynn & Rhue, 1988)

Reaction Time (Braffman & Kirsch, 2001)

Empathy (Wickramaskera II & Szlyk, 2003)

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Self-directedness (One component of the Temperment and
Character Inventory, Cloninger et al, 1993), (Laidlaw et al,
2005)

Measures which do not correlate with hypnotic

susceptibility

Five factor model of personality (Extroversion-

Introversion, Neuroticism, Agreeableness,
Conscientiousness, Openness) (Green, 2006)

Dissociation (Measure: DES) (Kirsch & Council, 1992;

Faith & Ray, 1994)

Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)

(Deckert & West, 1963)

One factor to be aware of when reviewing these studies is

that the assessment of hypnotic susceptibility is usually
conducted in the same session as the assessment of other
personality characteristics. This methodology has been
found to artificially inflate the relationship between the
two measures, and demonstrates what is known as the
context effect (Council, 1993; Council et al, 1996). To get
around this problem the assessments of the two measures
must be done separately. The resulting correlations have
often been reported to be smaller or nonsignificant.

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CHAPTER
NINE

127
 CHAPTER NINE

PAIN MANAGEMENT:
IMAGERY & VISUALIZATION

Imagery is often used inter-changeably with the word

visualization. It involves taking yourself to another place in
your mind, to a place where there is no pain. Guided simply
means a practitioner is leading you there, audio tapes can
also guide you, or you can go alone.

Imagery uses imagination to stimulate physiologic changes.

This can work because the brain does not seem to
distinguish between sensory images and physical reality.
Consider your physiologic response to watching a scary
horror movie. Do you experience a racing heart, rapid
breathing, and muscle tension? Many people do, despite
knowing they are in no real danger. Another example is a
men getting an erection while looking at explicit photos.
They know she isnt real, but the effects is the same.

So we know it works, but we need to apply it to our pain.

How? It is helpful to have a few sessions with a practitioner

128
/ doctor / hypnotherapist to get you started but it can also be
done alone if you are able to go to deep into your
imagination.

HERE IS AN EXERCISE

Here is an exercise for you to try:

Find an area you can be alone in with no distractions, no

noise, no television, no children or animals. Get into a
comfortable position and put all your thoughts away for a
time being. Just take this time to relax. Take a nice deep
breath, blow it out slowly . Relax. Tell yourself to be
warm, comfortable and relaxed.

Now picture yourself in the place you like best the

beach, on your Grandmothers porch, in her rocking chair,
beside a lake . next to a glowing campfire. Take a minute
to look around you. What do you see? What do you hear?
Take a deep breath . What do you smell? Stay in that
place for a few minutes . Just relaxing.

Feel better now? Less stressed? Less tense? Less pain? You
should. Other visions might include a healthier you. Picture
your pain surrounded in cotton or white fluffy clouds.
Imagine a beloved pet or favourite person sitting near you,

129
not talking but just be there to support you. Picture your
stress as helium balloons, and release them, one by one.
The possibilities are only limited by your
imagination.

Small scientific studies have shown imagery to be an

effective tool in many areas of healthcare management
besides pain and stress relief.

Guided imagery has been shown to reduce anxieties and

improve self-confidence, improve mood, decreases distress
in cancer patients, improve sports performance, and
improve smoking cessation rates. It has even been used
successfully to increase breast milk production in mothers
of premature infants.

One of the major advantages of imagery is that we can take

it anywhere. No prescriptions or special tools needed, just
your imagination.

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CHAPTER
TEN

131
 CHAPTER TEN

HYPNOSIS AND PAIN

RESEARCH

Reduction or removal of pain (analgesia) is one of the most

dramatic effects of hypnosis and suggestion and it is
unsurprising that manipulation of pain has been a strong
focus of research within the field. There are too many
studies to review, so more clinically-oriented studies are
reviewed in the clinical pain section, and more elementary
research is reviewed here.

HYPNOTIC ANALGESIA RESEARCH

Apart from findings that hypnotic pain relief is effective,

and that suggestions or expectations of pain relief is an
important component, much of the research investigating
hypnotic analgesia has demonstrated what factors are not
involved in the phenomenon.

HYPNOTIC ANALGESIA IS DEPENDENT UPON

SUGGESTION

132
A key fact is often missed is that the induction of hypnosis
by itself does not generate pain relief. It is the suggestion
inside a hypnotic framework, or at least the expectation of
pain relief which leads to reduction of pain. A number of
studies have specifically assessed pain relief following a
hypnotic induction, or the induction of hypnotic and
specific suggestions (Knox et al, 1974; Zachariae et al,
1998).

HYONOTIC ANALGESIA IS NOT DEPENDENT

UPON ENDORPHINS

One early explanation for hypnotic analgesia was that it

could be dependent upon the bodys natural painkilling
system, the endogenous opiate system. This was tested
experimentally by Goldstein & Hilgard in 1975. They
administrated the drug Naloxone, which blocks the effects
of opiates, to participants experiencing hypnotic analgesia.
They found that hypnotic analgesia was not significantly
affected by this inhibition of the opiate system, indicating
that another mechanism must be responsible.
Weitzenhoffer also pointed out that endogenous opiates are
an unlikely source of hypnotic analgesia because of the
latters quick reversibility, and specificity (i.e. hypnotic
analgesia can be detected at one location, leaving another
location unaffected).

HYPNOTIC ANALGESIA IS NOT DEPENDENT

UPON RELAXATION

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Since many hypnotic inductions contain elements of
relaxation it has been proposed that any pain relieving
properties of hypnotic suggestion could be due primarily to
a relaxation response. However, this hypothesis has been
tested experimentally. Miller and Colleagues (1991) gave
analgesia suggestions to two groups of participants: the first
group were hypnotized using a traditional relaxation
induction, while the second group were hypnotized using
an active-alert induction whist riding a stationary exercise
bicycle. They found that the amount of pain relief
experienced by each group was equivalent, contradicting
the idea that the effects of hypnotic analgesia are simply the
result of relaxation.

HYPNOTIC ANALGESIA DOES NOT SEEM TO BE

DEPENDENT UPON IMAGERY

Despite imagery often forming a key component when

hypnosis is used clinically, one study has directly tested the
additive benefits of imagery to hypnotic analgesia
suggestions. Hargadon And Colleagues (1995) tested 66
high hypnotizables in 3 conditions: baseline, hypnotic
analgesia and with imagery encouraged, and hypnotic
analgesia with imagery proscribed. Pain was rated as
significantly less in the two hypnotic analgesia conditions
compared to baseline, and there were no significant
differences between the two treatment conditions. In

134
contrast to this evidence, many clinicians report that the use
of imagery in hypnosis is particularly useful in helping
clients to engage with treatment, more work is needed to
clarify the precise role of imagery in hypnotic responding.

THE IMPACT OF HYPNOSIS ON PAIN RESEARCH

As well as telling us more about hypnosis and suggestion a

number of studies have had a feed-back effect and told us
more about the nature of the pain system in humans.

Modulation of pain unpleasentness independent of

sensory components

Back in 1997 Rainville and Colleagues has published a

landmark study which investigated the neural correlates of
pain in humans. Using positron emission tomography
(PET) they measured brain activity in a group of highly
hypnotizable subjects while they had their hand immersed
in either neutral (35 degree C) or painfully hot (47 degree
C) water. Hypnotic suggestions were given for participants
to experience increased and decreased pain unpleasantness
and verbal pain reports were taken.

The figure below show the area of the anterior cingulate

cortex found by Rainville to have activity which correlated
with the reported unpleasantness of the pain. Interestingly,

135
as early as 1962 this area of the brain had been thought to
be involved in the perception of pain unpleasantness.

Figure: Colour images show the area of anterior cingulate

cortex (ACC) whose activity correlated with perceived

136
unpleasantness in Rainville et al (1997). Black and White
images from Folz & White (1962) showing probe
positioning to produce lesions in the same region of the
ACC which produces reductions in perception of pain
unpleasantness.

Using hypnosis to generate pain in the

absence of a noxious stimuli

In a study investigating the functional pain (pain without an

obvious physical cause) Derbyshire and Colleagues
(2004) published a study investigating brain activity in
highly hypnotizable participants while they experienced
physically-induced (PI), hypnotically-induced (HI), or
imagined pain. The subjects were pre-selected for their
ability to hallucinate a sensation of pain. In both the PI and
HI pain conditions participants were led to expect that an
electrical heat probe attached to their hand would heat up to
become painfully hot. However, painful heat was only
delivered in the PI condition. In the HI condition the probe
was not switched on, but the participants reported feeling
varying strengths of pain.

In both the PI and the HI conditions significant activations

were reported in the key areas of the pain network,
including the thalamus, insula, anterior cingulate cortex,
and prefontal cortex. Additionally, activation was observed
in the HI condition in the primary somatosensory cortex.

137
Imagination of pain only resulted in minimal activation of
the pain network. These results indicate that it is possible to
experience pain in the absence of direct stimulation, and
provide some evidence for direct cortical involvement in
some clinical functional pain disorders. Similar results were
reported in 2005 by Raij and Colleagues.

138
Figure: Pain activation reported by Derbyshire et al (2004)
in response to physically-induced (read area), hypnotically-
induced (Blue area), and imagined (green area) pain.

139
CHAPTER
ELEVEN

140
 CHAPTER ELEVEN

MODIFICATION OF
SUGGESTIBILITY

A key question in hypnosis research is whether or not

suggestibility is modifiable. On the one hand there is
evidence that hypnotic suggestibility is a stable personality
trait - many individuals have been shown to score similarly
over periods of up to 25 years (Hilgard, 1965; Piccione et
al, 1989). This is backed up by data showing that the
similarity of hypnotizability of identical twins is higher
than the similarity of hypnotizability of non-identical twins
(Morgan, 1973), (So called twin data like this is often
used by scientists to determine whether there is a genetic
component to whatever trait they are measuring).

However, suggestibility can also be measured in the

absence of hypnosis - just administer the test suggestions
without administering the hypnotic induction. In the past
this has been known as primary suggestibility, or non-
hypnotic suggestibility, and a more recent label is
imaginative suggestibility because participants are often
asked to imagine the suggested state of affairs (Kirsch &
Braffman, 2001).

141
 MODICATION OF SUGGESTIBILITY WITH
HYPNOSIS

Since suggestibility can be measured before and after a

hypnotic induction, one of the most obvious tests is to see
whether such an induction increases suggestibility. Kirsch
and Braffman (2001) report that this has been done in six
studies and that the results are remarkably consistent,
revealing that the effects of hypnosis are fairly small - in
the region of 1 to 2 points on a standard 12-point scale.
Kirsch and Braffman (2001) term this difference between
hypnotic and non-hypnotic suggestibility as
HYPNOTIZABILITY, and note that the correlation
between an individuals scores is very high.

(Some scientists have pointed out that people might slip

into a trance spontaneously, even if a hypnotic induction is
not administered, and argue that responses to suggestions
should be taken as evidence that the person is in a hypnotic
state. However, this argument is circular. People are argued

142
to be responding to the suggestions because they are in a
trance, but the only reason to think they are in a trance is
because they are responding to suggestions).

MODIFICATION VIA OTHER

PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACHES

Many researchers have investigated using other

psychological techniques to increase suggestibility. One of
the most famous of these methods is the cognitive-
behaviourally oriented Carlton Skill Training Programme
(CTSP: Gorassini & Spanos, 1986). The CTSP is a 75
minute procedure which is designed to increase motivation
and to teach direct management strategies (insisting that the
participants make suggested responses and not just wait for
them to happen, and instructions to become more
absorbed). The CTSP has been studied in at least ten
different laboratories and it is reported that it is common
for at least 50% of participants who initially score low prior
to training score high afterwards.

Some researchers have argued that increases brought about

through this method are not genuine and are simply the
result of participants being encouraged to respond without
necessary experiencing their response as involuntary.

However, many other researchers have argued that the

subjective response of such trained high suggestible

143
participants are indistinguishable from participants who
were naturally high suggestible without training. They
also argue that training generalizes to new, untrained,
suggestions, and that the effects persist for up to a 4 month
follow-up (Gorassini, 2004).

Another interesting approach to suggestibility modification

has been research into the label hypnosis Gandhi &
Oakley (2005) administered a set of eight standard test
suggestions before and after the administration of a
hypnotic induction. The twist was that half of the
participants were told that the induction was hypnotic,
whereas the other half all mention of hypnosis was
removed and replaced with the word relaxation. They
found that the relaxation induction produced a modest
increase in suggestibility, but that the increase in
suggestibility was very significant if labelled hypnosis.
These date indicate that an individuals perceptions and
expectations regarding a hypnotic procedure can have
dramatic effects upon their procedures effectiveness.

MODIFICATION OF SUGGESTIBILITY
WITH DRUGS

A number of researchers have tried administering drugs to

increase suggestibility. Typically the methodology of these
studies involves either testing the suggestibility of two
groups of participants while administering one group the

144
drug and the other group the placebo. Large number of
participants are necessary in this designed to avoid chance
variations in suggestibility affecting the results. An
alternative method, is to test the same people twice, once
before and once after taking the drug. In many ways this is
a more reliable method, although it may introduce biases
because of test-retest effects, participants becoming
familiar with the tests.

Many of the drugs tested have widely varying

pharmacological effects and it is now yet known whether
suggestibility increases are due to a specific neurochemical
action or actions, or whether general dissociative woozy
effects of the drugs lead to suggestibility change, possible
via a psychological mechanism. We need to know more
about the neurobiology of response to suggestion to answer
this question more fully.

THE FUTURE OF SUGGESTIBILITY

MODIFICATION

The results just mentioned is possible to increase responses

to suggestions, potentially to quite a substantial degree.
Given that some clinical uses of hypnosis and suggestions,
such as pain relief, are known to vary in their effectiveness
depending upon how susceptible patients are it could be
enormously valuable to be able to modify suggestibility.

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Some pioneering research has already indicated that
hypnosis can be beneficial alongside conscious sedation
(Faymonville et al, 1997).

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CHAPTER
TWELVE

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 CHAPTER TWELVE

FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS

What is hypnosis?

That is a difficult question to answer quickly and precisely.

Some people think that it is an altered state of
consciousness, but since there is currently no agreed
definition of consciousness this argument can go around in
circles. When we talk about hypnosis we often tend to be
either talking about the relaxed, focused, absorbed feelings
that is associated with a trance state, although some people
do not like the term trance, or we tend to talk about the
interesting things people can do when they are hypnotized,
these are the products of suggestions.

Hypnosis is a natural state of mind in which the mind

remains clear, alter and focused on a particular task.
Something weve all experienced from time to time. If you
become really absorbed while watching TV or driving to
work on auto pilot you experience some form of
hypnosis. In this deeply relaxed state your conscious can be
temporarily put aside so that a desired change can be
created in your mind.

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Can anyone be hypnotized?

Yes, everybody is hypnotizable to some extent, some

people more than others. Susceptibility to hypnosis can be
measured with a hypnotic susceptibility scale. Researchers
tend to classify people as high, medium or low.

How can hypnotherapy help me?

Dont forget that anything the mind can believe it can

achieve. Hypnosis is unlimited in the scope of what it can
be used for. Some examples of what hypnotherapy can help
with are: stress management, self-confidence, quitting
smoking, weight loss, sports enhancement, tension
headaches, relaxation, public speaking, fears and phobias,
bed wetting, allergies, past life regression, memory
improvement, pain control, age regression, improve study
habits, nail biting, motivation, insomnia and so much more.
The depth of hypnosis varies from person to person and can
even be different every time one experiences it. If you do
not experience a deep state of hypnosis your first time
around, you can always develop it with a little bit of
practice.

Is hypnosis dangerous?

Hypnosis is not in itself a dangerous procedure, but there

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are concerns that if it is not used properly then it could lead
to negative reactions. The risks associated with hypnosis,
for example, participants very occasionally experience a
mild headache.

Can hypnosis make me do things I dont want to do?

The simple answer is no, you cant be made to do anything

you dont want to do in hypnosis. In hypnosis you retain
power over your ability to act upon suggestions, although if
you do allow yourself to act upon a suggestion you may
feel as though the effects are happening by themselves.

Is hypnosis like sleep?

The short answer is no.

What does hypnosis feel like?

The answer is that hypnosis probably feels different for

everybody. Many hypnotists, researchers, clinicians use
elements of relaxation procedures, some people commonly
associate a feeling of relaxation with hypnosis. Different
people have all sorts of bodily responses to relaxation
instructions, some people feel as though their body is very
heavy, whereas some can feel very light, almost as if they
were floating. Mentally, again people have all sorts of

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response. People typically report feeling very focused or
absorbed, often effortlessly so. Since instructions for
imagery are often used people can have very vivid
imaginative experiences, many report feeling as they were
there.

Can I get stuck in hypnosis?

There is no evidence that anybody can become stuck in

hypnosis. The worst that might happen could be that you
fall asleep, and wake up un-hypnotized. Studies have been
conducted where participants have been hypnotized, and
the experimenter leaves the room under the pretence that
there is a problem he has to attend to, the participant is then
observed (without his/her knowledge) to see what happens.
The result in all cases was that the participants
spontaneously woke up, the high hypnotizables take
slightly longer to do so. But no, nothing happens.

Is there any harmful after effects from hypnosis?

Absolutely not. There has not been a case on record to date

of anyone ever having any after effects, or because of
hypnosis. In fact, most people experience a very pleasant
sense of well being.

Am I giving up control during hypnosis?

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No. You will always be in full complete control, and you
have the ability to your eyes at anytime you choose. NO
ONE can control your mind, EXCEPT YOU.

I would like hypnosis to be part of my treatment, who

can I see?

Different countries regulate hypnosis and psychotherapy in

varied ways and in many countries no specialist training is
required in order to call oneself a hypnotherapist. The
International Society Of Hypnosis recommends that the
only therapists using hypnosis should be those who are
already qualified in a professional discipline (such as
medicine, dentistry, psychology, or psychotherapy).

If a person is not professionally qualified to treat

something without hypnosis, then theyre not qualified to
treat something with hypnosis, either.
Quote Martin Orne

First you look for that professional certificate on the wall -

physician, dentist, clinical psychotherapist, or whatever.
Then you look for the certificate of hypnosis.

Is NLP like hypnosis?

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NLP is a set of techniques that are intended to promote
personal development. Some of these techniques were
developed from the work of successful hypnotherapists,
notably Milton Erickson. NLP remains scientifically
unvalidated and is not a part of mainstream academic
psychology.

Will I remember what was said or done after I come out

of hypnosis?

You will remember what was said and done throughout

hypnosis. Hypnosis is an unconscious state and therefore, if
you have a limited recollection of what happened there is a
valid reason. It is either because you are drifting into your
own thoughts during certain fragments of you were in such
a deep trance that temporarily chose to block out the
memory of the experience. Generally speaking, you will be
able to remember the totality with some light mental
prodding reinforcement.

Is hypnosis Medically Approved?

Hypnosis have been approved by various medical

associations outside of Canada including the American
Medical Association, the American Psychiatric
Association, and the British Medical Association. Here in

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Canada, however, hypnosis has not yet been recognized as
a medical process. The Canadian Hypnotherapists
Association is currently seeking formal recognition of the
practice by the federal government.

What if I discover something that I dont want to

know?

Your subconscious mind will only give you what you are
ready to handle. Trust the integrity of your subconscious
mind. When you are ready to address a particular issue,
youll find it very empowering to release it and move on
with your life.

I have a secret that no one should know. Will hypnosis

let it out?

Hypnosis is not a truth serum. Although it allows you to

access memories in great detail, you are always in control
and are able to censor everything you say.

How much concentration do I need to be hypnotized?

If you can count from 1 to 10 while you stare blankly at a

point on the wall, that is all the concentration required to be
hypnotized.

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What about those hypnosis stage shows?

Successful stage hypnosis relies on willing volunteers.

These people have a desire to join in on the show and
perform. Hypnosis merely helps them to lift fears and
inhibitions that they may ordinarily have against
performing in public.

Im pregnant. Is hypnosis safe for my baby?

Congratulation! Yes, hypnosis is perfectly safe for both you

and your baby. In fact, your new bundle of joy would
probably benefit greatly by you being in such a caring and
relaxed state.

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME

ALL your comments are greatly appreciated.

Please feel free to write to me in regards to
this book or about any other of my books.

I thank you in advance.

GeorgeFelfoldi@Hotmail.Com

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THIS IS A
FREE
BOOK

157
Enjoy!

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