Hypnosis and Meditation Unit 3 Lesson 5

Objectives Define hypnosis and identify common characteristics of a hypnotic trance. Explain who and how one can hypnotized. Identify applications for hypnotherapy. Describe meditation as a way to alter consciousness

Warm Up Describe one of the sleep disorders discussed in the last lesson.

Hypnosis Altered state of consciousness in which people become deeply relaxed and highly suggestible to changes in experiences & behaviors.

History of Hypnosis Franz Anton Mesmer, late 1700’s, cures problems through “mesmerism”. James Braid, early 1800’s, coins term hypnosis (as deep sleep-like state). Clark Hull, 1920s, establishes first experimental hypnosis lab.

Hypnotic Ability How susceptible a participant is to entering a hypnotic state. Hypnotizability Hypnosis Can You Be Hypnotized? http://www.clipsforclass.com/consciousness

How is Someone Hypnotized? Hypnotic Induction- methods used to induce hypnosis Close eyes and concentrate on breathing Fix attention on object/voice Instant Induction http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiQJi57Xbl4&feature=fvw http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtQtL0nO0x8&feature=related

Hypnosis vs. Sleep Change in brain wave activity? Ability to think critically? Sleep: NO! Hypnosis: NO! Change in heart rate, respiration? Sleep: YES! Hypnosis: YES! Change in brain wave activity? Sleep: YES! Hypnosis: NO! Responsive to external stimuli? Sleep: NO! Hypnosis: YES! Very much!

Characteristics of Hypnotic State Suggestibility Do, think, say things as told Dissociation Separate self from external reality “Hypnotic Analgesia” Subject told to conduct orchestra

Characteristics of Hypnotic State Enhanced Memory or Hypermnesia Recall remote events in great detail Age regression Pseudomemories: (false) recollections are problem

Characteristics of Hypnotic State Quasi-Hallucination Subject will act as though hypnotic delusion is real “Imagined Perception” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbWuZL5wnNc

Characteristics of Hypnotic State Posthypnotic Suggestion Perform particular behavior to specific cues outside of hypnotic state “Hypnotherapy” Temporary fix fades w/time http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8ujg1zScqg

Characteristics of Hypnotic State Posthypnotic Amnesia Subject can’t recall events that took place under hypnosis

Applications for Hypnosis Posthypnotic Suggestion – control undesired symptoms/behaviors Pain Control – birth, chemotherapy, dental Treatment Therapy – headaches, asthma, warts, acne, smoking, weight control, nailbiting

Hypnosis Activity No right or wrong way to be hypnotized Not necessary to be in a trance Need willingness to suspend critical thinking! Close eyes and pretend you’re walking up to the front door of your home. Open the door and walk in. Walk through your home and count the doors, all the doors or doorways, one floor or all floors, whatever you choose. Do so now.

Meditation Altered state of consciousness in which one directs their attention to achieve inner peace and tranquility.

Transcendental Meditation Western version Sit Quiet Close eyes Mantra Practice ! “How to Meditate” http://www.clipsforclass.com/consciousness

Meditation Physiological Effects Psychological Effects Slower breathing Slower heart rate Alpha wave EEG Muscle relaxation Lower blood pressure Lower O2 consumption Reduced insomnia Psychological Effects Less anxiety Higher self-esteem Mental clarity Social openness Better decision making and problem-solving

Other Forms of Relaxation Progressive Relaxation Tense and relax major muscle groups until you’re able to relax any group at will Biofeedback Voluntarily learning to control internal processes like blood pressure, heart rate, or temperature. Requires machines and stuff

Closure Identify and describe one hypnotic phenomenon.

Homework For (Wed) class, bring a pillow or blanket and wear comfy clothing. We are going to practice relaxation & meditation techniques.