Hypnosis for Permanent Weight Loss

In hypnosis, a hypnotic induction is used to guide a patient into a relaxed yet focused state. At this point, suggestions are given, with the expectation that each will be processed and absorbed by the subconscious mind. Hypnosis is used to promote permanent weight loss, and studies published in the "Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology" point to its effectiveness.

Induction

• Hypnotic induction may involve guided visualization used to bring a patient to a state of optimized relaxation. This typically occurs while the patient is reclining. In many cases, the patient is asked to focus her gaze on a certain point for a period of time. She is then directed to close her eyes so that the process may progress to the next phase--the delivery of the hypnotic suggestion.

Suggestions

• The hypnotist will typically read a script containing a list of suggestions. Some suggestions are crafted to deliver instantaneous results, while others are designed to trigger continuous benefits long after the session has ended.

Weight Loss

• Weight loss suggestions are typically designed to break negative habits surrounding food and eating. For example, many people overeat when they are under stress or are emotionally upset. A script designed to address this issue might contain a suggestion that encourages you not to eat unless you are truly hungry. Many weight loss scripts also attempt to subconsciously boost metabolism so that more calories are burned in a resting state. Weight loss scripts may also contain suggestions designed to diminish the appeal of fattening foods and magnify the appeal of more healthful choices.

Exercise

• The central idea behind hypnosis for weight loss is that much can be achieved with the right attitude and frame of mind. As such, this approach attempts to guide the patient to a place where he is receptive and eager to take advantage of all the tools that can be used to achieve weight loss. Exercise is one such tool, and many weight loss scripts contain suggestions designed to help the patient learn how to genuinely enjoy exercise so that he is likely to engage in it more often.

Results

• In the previously quoted study, women treated with hypnosis lost an average of 17 lbs. over the course of nine weeks. Another study conducted by the "Journal of Clinical Psychology" in 1985 suggests that patients treated with hypnosis continue to reap weight loss benefits in the years following their sessions.

Side Effects and Complications

• Side effects, such as anxiety, dizziness and nausea, have been reported. If they occur, these typically take place during the induction. Therapists also report rare cases in which a patient spontaneously regresses to a traumatic event in his past. To avoid these complications, make sure that you choose an experienced hypnotherapist.