When you hear the word hypnosis, it generally has a negative connotation since it was portrayed as such for the longest time. However, you should know that this could be a potential treatment for several health conditions. And if you wonder – can hypnosis help with sleep problems? This post will answer it for you.
Research suggests that hypnosis could help people suffering from insomnia and other sleep-related problems. However, only professionals should administer it, and a tailored process must be in place. The treatment aims to help the patient focus on suggestions that can positively affect their behavior and thoughts.
Hypnosis Overview
If you are not familiar with hypnosis, it’s best that you understand it first to further appreciate the concept. And who knows if this could be the solution for your sleeping problem.
When we say hypnosis, it’s a state of consciousness wherein a person is focused on a specific idea, reducing their peripheral awareness. During this state, a person’s brain activity alters in such a way that they are more open to new ideas.
Now, with hypnotherapy, many have already proven its positive effects for different health issues. This includes body pains, mental health and could even help people who would like to have behavioral changes.
Contrary to what most people think, hypnosis is not synonymous with mind control. While the person is more open to suggestions, they still have the ability to control their actions and decisions. Unfortunately, this perception of hypnosis as controlling one’s mind is commonly seen in movies, which is why there are still many who are not comfortable doing this as therapy.
What is Sleep Hypnosis?
Sleep hypnosis uses hypnotherapy so that one could have better quality sleep. Take note that you are not to fall asleep during the session. But rather, it helps you change your negative thoughts and behavior that could affect your sleep cycle. Once the therapy is complete, it is expected that your sleep will be greatly improved.
Hypnosis could work well with other treatments. For example, a patient could be recommended to undergo cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. With this, you are being counseled, which can eventually help reframe negative thoughts about sleeping.
The Process of Hypnotherapy
Allow us to give you an overview of how this therapy works.
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- First, the entire process will be explained to the patient so that they could manage their expectations. This is also the perfect time to ask questions and seek clarifications.
- You will then be asked to focus on a calming image or thought. The goal is to make you feel relaxed and to heighten your level of focus.
- Once you are focused, you will be given instructions to promote further attention.
- When a patient is already in a trance-like state, more specific instructions and suggestions will be given, depending on your medical condition.
- At the final stage, you will be guided to be fully awake.
Specifically for sleep hypnosis, a patient will be encouraged to follow a consistent sleep schedule or to remove negative thoughts about falling asleep. More often than not, you may be required to undergo multiple sessions.
We have to reiterate that only trained professionals must do the therapy. Thus, you need to do your due diligence on one’s credentials.
Is There Self-Hypnosis?
This might come as a surprise for you, but studies are suggesting that self-hypnosis is possible. This could be done by using videos, smartphone apps, or even audio recordings. If you do not have the luxury of time to visit a doctor, this could be an alternative. However, its effectiveness might need further proof.
For others, what they do is consult professionals for the first few sessions. From there, they would follow the recommended exercises, which they can practice at home.
Is It For Everyone?
Hypnosis doesn’t work for everyone. According to research, people could respond differently to hypnosis. Fifteen percent are said to be highly receptive, while 1/3 are resistant and may not benefit from it.
Best Products for Sleep Problems
If you are having trouble sleeping, we recommend that you get these products.
COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Noise-canceling headphones are ideal, most especially if you live in a busy community. Likewise, this should work if you have family members or housemates that can be noisy even at night time.
To spare yourself from not getting enough sleep, get quality headphones such as this one. It is highly durable and can last for a long time. You can also use this if you plan to listen to audio recordings for self-hypnosis.
You can try listening to the sound from this video if you want to sleep better at night.
Magicteam Sleep Sound White Noise Machine
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Now, if you want a soothing background in your room, why don’t you try this white noise machine that offers 40 non-looping sleep sounds. If you are a fan of listening to rain, birds, waves, and crickets, this should be on top of your list. It’s best not just for adults, but babies could benefit from this too.
SUNNEST Kids Night Light
Check the latest price on Amazon.
This has four led bulbs that can project a colorful sky onto the ceiling and walls of your bedroom. Ideally, this is made for kids, but we bet adults could take advantage of it as well.
You can either use batteries or a USB cable to make it work. If you encounter problems with the product, you can reach out to the manufacturer, and they will respond to you within 24 hours.
There are many sleep aids you can use to improve the quality of your sleep. For example, there are soothing candles, weighted blankets, and even melatonin gummies. But if you are to purchase gummies, it’s best to consult your doctor first as you may have other health conditions that affect your sleeping behavior.
Conclusion
Can Hypnosis Help with Sleep Problems?
It is possible, but only with a trained professional. It’s a treatment that not all people are aware of but has been proven to be effective by many. And with the clarifications we’ve shared, we hope you already have a better understanding of what it is. Again, it isn’t ‘mind control,’ but it helps you become more focused and open to suggestions. From there, you will be provided with the best actions that can improve your sleeping habits.
