Modern Wisdom

#985 - Dr David Spiegel - Hypnosis, Brain Hacking, & Mental Mastery

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Aug 25, 2025
Guest
David Spiegel
Dr. David Spiegel, a Stanford psychiatrist and hypnosis expert, unpacks the true nature of hypnosis, revealing it's more than a stage trick. He discusses how it helps manage anxiety and enhance mental control, portraying it as a natural state accessible to many. The conversation dives into its therapeutic potential for trauma healing, performance enhancement, and pain management. Spiegel also sheds light on how genetic factors influence hypnotizability, and he shares insights on innovative techniques like self-hypnosis and breathing exercises for improved well-being.
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00:00 / 00:00

Hypnosis Enhances Control

  • Hypnosis increases control, not loss of control, by letting people try new behaviours quickly.
  • It reframes letting go as a tool to enhance mental and bodily regulation.
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Neural Signature Of Hypnosis

  • Three brain changes define hypnosis: reduced dorsal anterior cingulate activity, increased DLPFC–insula connectivity, and suppressed default mode activity.
  • These shifts lower anxiety, improve interoception, and relax identity-based self-judgement.
00:00 / 00:00

Rapid Self‑Hypnosis Induction

  • Use a rapid induction: look up, close your eyes, deep breath, relax and let one hand float.
  • If you're hypnotizable, you can enter the state in seconds and use it yourself.
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