Anxiety is one of the most common human experiences. It often arises when we either lose or anticipate losing control over our circumstances, or when we anticipate bad outcomes in the future. Anxiety is often accompanied by physical sensations, which can range from mild to severe. Anxiety often creates a thought loop that, if not interrupted, spins in our mind without a restraint, causing mental and emotional distress. Hypnotherapy works to break the unrestrained mental loops, reinforces physical well-being, and helps to release the fight or flight response to the situations.
How Hypnosis Helps Anxiety
During hypnosis, the hypnotherapist helps the nervous system to shift into a relaxed state, and the physical sensations are addressed so that the person can be calm and present. The subconscious mind becomes receptive to suggestions that use grounded assessment of reality and person’s strengths in order to respond to the circumstances in a more effective manner. This allows anxious patterns to soften and be replaced with appropriate responses instead of knee-jerk reactions.
Hypnotherapists work with each person’s beliefs, fears, unique physical responses, and life circumstances to build internal safety and increase resilience. Hypnotherapy can help with any of the following types of anxiety:
- Generalized anxiety
- Social anxiety
- Performance anxiety
- Stress-related symptoms
- Panic responses
What Results Can You Expect?
Clients often experience relief during the sessions, reporting deeper relaxation and peace. Some therapists might offer clients anxiety management techniques they can use on their own to improve their quality of life. Gradual improvements can lead to permanent positive change, but the rate of progress will depend on the individual factors and consistency.
Hypnotherapy offers a gentle, compassionate approach to anxiety that incorporates emotional, physical, and mental aspects of human experience and provides a holistic way for dealing with them.
By Natalie Candela, PhD
Certified Hypnotherapist and Transformation Coach
Awakened Hypnosis (https://awakenedhypnosis.com)