Smarter Not Harder Mind Over Matter: Intersection of Psychiatry & Hypnosis (ft. Dr. David Spiegel) | SNH Podcast #94
Oct 23, 2024
Dr. David Spiegel, a Stanford psychiatrist and pioneer in mind-body medicine, explores the transformative power of hypnosis. He highlights its potential in pain management and cancer care, contrasting its benefits with traditional pharmaceuticals. The discussion includes fascinating insights on the neurological underpinnings of hypnosis and its role in fostering self-control during childbirth. Dr. Spiegel also emphasizes the importance of emotional support and connection in facing mortality, particularly in the context of recent global challenges.
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Asthma Rescued With Spontaneous Hypnosis
- As a medical intern, David Spiegel used a breathing hypnosis technique to stop a 15-year-old's severe asthma attack in minutes.
- He faced pushback for 'hypnotizing a minor' but continued because it helped the patient avoid anesthesia and steroids.
How Hypnosis Changes The Brain
- Hypnosis is focused attention plus dissociation and cognitive flexibility that lets you 'try out' being different.
- These shifts reduce alarm responses and increase control over sensations like pain.
Neural Signature Of Hypnotic Control
- Neuroimaging shows hypnosis lowers default mode and anterior cingulate activity while increasing prefrontal-insula connectivity.
- This pattern suppresses self-referential alarm signals and enhances mind-body control.
