The Proof with Simon Hill

Benefits of hypnosis | David Spiegel, MD

Jan 22, 2024
Guest
David Spiegel
Stanford Professor David Spiegel discusses the benefits of hypnosis, including breaking bad habits, managing pain, and improving conditions like insomnia and IBS. He addresses common fears and misconceptions, explains the research and its integration with psychotherapy. The speaker explores the distinction between hypnosis and meditation and the efficacy of hypnosis via apps. They also explore the potential benefits of psychedelics in trauma therapy and the underutilization of hypnosis in psychiatry.
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INSIGHT

Clinical vs. Stage Hypnosis

  • Hypnosis is more than just stage shows; clinical hypnosis is a separate practice.
  • It involves focused attention, dissociation from ordinary consciousness, and cognitive flexibility.
INSIGHT

Components of Hypnosis

  • Hypnosis involves focused attention, like a telephoto lens, reducing awareness of the broader context.
  • It also puts ordinary conscious thoughts outside of awareness, enabling dissociation and cognitive flexibility.
ANECDOTE

Quitting Smoking with Reveri

  • A woman used David Spiegel's Reveri app to quit smoking after 25 years, even though she enjoyed it.
  • She changed her perspective, viewing smoking as a poison rather than a pleasure, highlighting the power of cognitive flexibility.
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