Hypnosis is an effective method that makes it possible to initiate constructive processes in the unconscious mind in order to bring about lasting changes in behavior patterns and activate personal resources.

During a hypnosis session, a state of focused concentration or trance is consciously induced—a state that occurs quite naturally, for example, when one is absorbed or deeply engrossed in a creative activity.

In this altered state of consciousness, it is possible to interact with the unconscious—which plays a decisive role in shaping our behavior—in an almost playful way. Using suggestion techniques based on the work of Milton Erickson, one can, much like on a journey of the mind, focus specifically on the issue one wishes to address and thus achieve lasting results.
How does hypnosis work?

In modern hypnosis, after thorough preparatory work done together, you open yourself up to the support of your subconscious mind. In the trance state, external reality loses its significance and you direct your attention inward. Your perception focuses on a specific mental image, and your breathing becomes calmer and slows down. As this happens, your ability to intensely experience and visualize inner realities increases—and this is precisely what is used to activate resources and initiate changes in patterns in a way that would not be possible in the normal waking state.
Neurophysiologically, the brain’s altered state of functioning under hypnosis is characterized by slow brain waves and the activation of areas of the cerebral cortex and midbrain that are responsible for attention control and mental relaxation.

By the way, modern hypnosis is about self-determination; it has nothing to do with being controlled by others, as is the case with show and stage hypnosis.

Hypnosis can be helpful in the following areas, for example:
• Relaxation, coping with stress
• Coping with pain
• Smoking / quitting smoking
• Body dissatisfaction / body satisfaction
• Boosting and building self-esteem
• Activating resources and potential
• Achieving goals
• Coping with exam situations

About Milton Erickson
Milton Erickson (1901–1980) is considered the founder of modern hypnosis. He was a psychiatrist in Phoenix, Arizona, and in his hypnosis work, he focused more on his clients’ abilities and resources than on the “power” of the hypnotist, as had generally been the case before. In his view, hypnosis is a complex form of communication; he understood trance as a state of consciousness characterized by reorientation and learning. According to him, hypnosis is based on good cooperation; the hypnosis coach plays the role of a guide in the clients’ process of growth and change, with the goal of creating freedom of choice.

The form of hypnosis described here is intended for healthy individuals who wish to make changes and grow in certain areas of their lives.