Hypnosis and hypnotherapy has been used for many centuries and difficult to attribute its true beginnings. Ancient Greek, Hindu and Egyptian civilisations used hypnosis to analyse dreams, helping to understand problems. The use of a rhythmic beat or chanting has been used by shamans for thousands of years, altering the state of mind of a person and sending them into a trance.
Modern hypnotherapy however can be attributed to the work of Franz Mesmer during the 18th century.
The Austrian physician developed the theory of 'animal magnetism' claiming disease was due to a block in magnetic forces flowing around the body. These forces are now often referred to in alternative therapy as 'life energy'. Mesmer used magnets and sweeping arm movements across a patient's body claiming to unblock any energy flows that were causing disease. This slow rhythmic movement and his power of suggestion to the patient that something was about to happen are the roots of hypnotherapy methods used today.
Hypnotherapy developed further in Britain during the 19th century when Scottish optometrist James Braid noted an important part of sending a person into a trance was through their fixating on an object. Once in a trance-like state they were susceptible to suggestion. The image of a hypnotherapist swinging a watch is directly from Braid's study as the watch was a popular object used by early practitioners.
Hypnotherapy is usually on a one-to-one basis but can take place within a group. Before your first appointment, think about what you want to achieve with hypnotherapy and make a list of the problems you hope to overcome. Then check with Fay for appointment times and location.
A Typical Appointment with Fay Bailey
Your hypnotherapy will take place in a quiet and relaxed environment and you will usually be sat in a comfortable chair. I will begin with a consultation where you can talk in confidence about the issues or conditions you wish to overcome with hypnotherapy.
The process of hypnosis will then be explained to you before beginning the therapy. During the first stages, I may use relaxing music as I start to ease you into a hypnotic state but the main thing you hear will be my voice.
Under hypnosis, your breathing and heart rate slow down and your muscles relax. You'll be aware of only my voice. At no time will you feel out of control.
As your session ends, you will be slowly brought you out of your hypnotic state and you'll feel alert and refreshed as if you've had a good night's sleep. We will then discuss the experience and may give advice on any self-hypnosis techniques you can use at home, I can also prescribe a cd of my which you can play in your own home to help with your problem.
For more information and to make an enquiry, please visit Fay's other site www.thoughts-matter.com