Dr. Daniel Kohen, a pediatrician and hypnosis expert, discusses the truth about hypnosis and its power to heal. They debunk misconceptions and clarify that it isn't mind control. Joshua, a 13-year-old, shares his experience using hypnosis to overcome anxiety. The podcast explores the concept of suggestibility in hypnosis, the benefits of hypnosis, and the effects it has on the brain, including its ability to reduce pain perception.
Hypnosis is a practice that involves entering a relaxed state of awareness to change thoughts and behaviors.
Hypnosis is not mind control and individuals undergoing hypnosis maintain awareness of their surroundings.
Deep dives
What is hypnosis and how it works
Hypnosis, also known as hypnotherapy, is a practice where a person enters a relaxed state of awareness similar to daydreaming with the help of a doctor. In this calm state of mind, the person becomes more open to suggestions, making it easier to change thoughts and behaviors. Hypnotherapy can be used to help patients with various issues such as anxiety, pain, and even phobias. It works by utilizing dissociation, absorption, and suggestibility to create a focused and relaxed mental state.
The process of hypnosis and self-hypnosis
To achieve a hypnotic state, a person can undergo hypnotherapy with a doctor or learn self-hypnosis. During the process, individuals are guided to focus on different images, sounds, or sensations, taking deep breaths and slipping into an imaginative world. Once in this state, the doctor or the individual can suggest positive changes and solutions to achieve their goals. Self-hypnosis involves deep breathing and focusing on positive thoughts and feelings, helping individuals calm their minds and reduce anxiety.
Understanding the misconceptions about hypnosis
There are several misconceptions about hypnosis, largely influenced by media portrayals. Hypnosis is not mind control, and people cannot be made to do things they don't want to do. It is not sleep, and individuals undergoing hypnosis maintain awareness of their surroundings. While the exact mechanisms behind hypnosis are still being explored, research has shown that it can have real effects on the brain, such as reducing pain perception. Despite some skepticism, hypnosis has been practiced for thousands of years and continues to help many people improve their well-being.
Hypnosis. You’ve seen it in movies, cartoons, and maybe even on stage! But is it real? And if so, what is it?
Join Molly and co-host Jasmine as they uncover the truth about hypnosis and its power to heal. They’ll hear from pediatrician and hypnosis expert, Dr. Daniel Kohen, about what it is and isn’t. (Spoiler alert – it isn’t mind control!) They’ll also chat with 13-year-old Joshua who uses hypnosis to overcome anxiety! Plus, a special appearance from the ghost of Franz Mesmer, a famous practitioner and the man behind the word mesmerizing. Entranced? Stick around for a new and puzzling mystery sound!
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This episode was sponsored by
Sitka Seafood Market - Use promo code Molly35 to receive $35 off your first order.
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