Self Hypnosis

[hmblservant]

Self-Hypnosis

Before we go into what self-hypnosis is, we need to look first at what it is not. If you use a cd or a tape to achieve a hypnotized state, this is hypnosis, not self-hypnosis. Anytime you tune into the words of someone else you are being hypnotized by that 'someone else', not by yourself. Hypnosis and self-hypnosis are two completely different processes. While hypnosis disorganizes the inhibitory processes, self-hypnosis does just the opposite, organizing the inhibitory processes. The only purposes of self-hypnosis are to aid in relaxation, manage stress and bring self-improvement. Do not use it to relieve pain, uncover past memories or to try to stop medications. Though self-hypnosis sounds similar to meditation, they are actually very different. During the meditation process you clear your mind of thoughts. During self-hypnosis you organize your thoughts to vent, then release them and relax. For those who have trouble meditating, self-hypnosis is a great way to create inner peace and relaxation.

In the high-stress world we live in, self-hypnosis is a very effective tool that can be utilized to lessen your stress and bring relaxation. It can also give a big boost to your energy levels and improve your self-confidence. Here's how it's done.

Choose a time slot during which you know you will not be disturbed for at least half an hour. You may sit or lie down in a place you are comfortable. If you think you may fall asleep lying down, sit. Do not cross your arms or legs. Progressively relax each part of your body, from your toes to your head. As you do this, breathe deeply in through you nose and out through your mouth. As you exhale, feel the tension leaving your body and envision the body part you are relaxing becoming lighter. As thoughts go through your mind, allow them to do so, but just observe them impartially, then release them.

When you have completed the relaxation process, envision yourself at the top of a set of stairs. There should be at least ten stairs, but no more that twenty. Decide the number as you create them in your mind, seeing the entire staircase from top to bottom. See that the stairs are safe and sturdy. Envision a strong handrail for support as you descend. Know that each stair you step on will allow you to become more relaxed. Begin to descend. Count(10-0) each stair as you go down, taking a moment on each to feel your relaxation deepen.

When you reach the bottom, you are now ready to give yourself a beneficial suggestion. Never do this in a negative fashion(i.e. I don't want to be tired anymore). Always use a positive statement such as 'I feel energized, alive and happy' or 'I am calm and relaxed'. Repeat this statement at least three times.

Now you are ready to go back up the stairs. Turn around and grasp the handrail. Count(0-10) the stairs again as you ascend them. On each step you feel calm and relaxed, but become more awake and aware. When you reach the top normal consciousness is restored and you feel wonderful.

Allow yourself a few minutes with eyes closed to enjoy the feeling. Do not try to get up too fast.

[DavidC]

I assume 'vent' means 'get rid of excess/any/all thoughts.'  Self-hypnosis and in fact any conscious action involves meditation or contemplation: they are 'to measure' (contemplation as: 'to mark out a space for observation,') and both involve synonyms to the Latin verb 'to be conscious of,' the root word of 'conscious(ness') and 'conscience,' though even the latter is not formally an English verb.  Some/most Indo-European languages define meditation as 'thinking' (though it can be thinking nothing, but even a prayer/mantra or method is something, and even Asian methods include sometimes meditating on specific ideas,) and contemplation can be 'marking out the thinking space and observing,' or 'observing thinking nothing.'  So, certain meditation, contemplation, self-hypnosis methods differ, but the latter seems to include the former two by definition.

Self-hypnosis including with relaxation sometimes lying down is used in superlearning/neuro-linguistic-programming, which also uses yogic techniques besides deep breaths, like breath cycle patterns, and NLP can include self-hypnosis, or Baroque or similar music... I think it is okay to meditate to that or a voice of oneself (or a virtuous person)--I have not done so much for 10 years unless memorizing.

Some good self-hypnosis sayings may be of Dharma (mantras, axioms, 'The Divine Light Invocation' (written down by Swami Sivananda Radha,)) & some Psalms & Proverbs (including other cultures') & Pythagorean & Sextus' & Theosophy (Light on The Path, The Voice of The Silence,) but most such sayings except 'The Divine Light Invocation' do not use 'I,' yet many are worth saying.

One should not dwell on memories, and if some are too hard to remember one might not need to (they are easier if one periodically recounts recent events/actions, such as at days' ends) but... 'know thyself.'