Hypnosis and the Brain: A Spiritual Perspective

Researchers in neuroscience, psychology, and medicine have been intensively studying hypnosis for many years, gradually uncovering fascinating insights about the human brain and consciousness. This exploration can be likened to peeling back layers of complexity similar to peeling the layers of an onion! LOL with each new discovery revealing more about the intricate nature of our cognitive processes.

Recent findings in hypnosis research are both intriguing and nuanced. Studies suggest that hypnosis may involve specific alterations in brain activity and connectivity, potentially affecting areas related to attention, perception, and cognitive control. For instance, some research indicates changes in activity in the anterior cingulate cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during hypnotic states. “Hypnosis and the Brain” https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/04/science-of-hypnosis.

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Researchers, armed with advanced neuroimaging tools, have yet to reach a consensus on which exact brain regions and networks are engaged during hypnotic states and suggestions. This isn’t too surprising when you think about it, considering the diverse manifestations of hypnosis.

As Devin Terhune from King’s College London points out, hypnosis can range from inducing vivid visual hallucinations to modulating pain or even tweaking memory. Given these diverse experiences, it’s no wonder pinpointing a single brain region responsible is elusive.

However, there are some emerging patterns. A thorough review by Raz and his team highlighted three crucial brain networks linked to how hypnotizable someone is and how they respond to hypnosis: The central executive network, the salience network, and the default mode network.

The default mode network, in particular, is quite interesting—it’s usually buzzing when we’re daydreaming or reflecting inwardly. Michael Lifshitz from McGill University explains that during hypnosis, the activity in this network diminishes.

It’s almost as if the usual chatter of our minds quiets down, creating a serene space for new insights and experiences to flow in.

In my practice, I utilize hypnosis primarily as a tool for integration rather than relaxation, unless a client requires additional resources before engaging in deeper therapeutic work. Typically, I incorporate hypnosis towards the end of a session. This approach allows clients to process and internalize the insights and emotional shifts they’ve experienced during our work together.

It’s crucial to emphasize that during hypnosis, clients maintain awareness and control. They have the ability to critically evaluate suggestions and decide whether these align with their personal goals and values. The process is collaborative, with clients actively participating in formulating new beliefs and behavioral changes they wish to implement in their lives.

This method aims to help clients release limiting beliefs or patterns that may have hindered their progress. The focus is on empowering individuals to make positive changes that resonate with their personal growth objectives and overall well-being.

I’ve found this approach to be particularly effective since 2021, as it allows clients to take an active role in their healing process and reinforces their autonomy in personal development.

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Moving on to discuss the research of Faerman and Dr. David Spiegel, who have made notable contributions to the field of hypnosis and cognitive science. Dr. Spiegel, in particular, is well-regarded for his work in integrating hypnosis with conventional medical practices. Full disclosure: I’ve taken some of his courses, which has given me an appreciation for his perspective on various therapeutic approaches.

Their research investigated the relationship between hypnotizability and perseveration—a form of cognitive rigidity where individuals struggle to adapt to new information or strategies, instead adhering to outdated patterns of thinking or behavior. Their findings suggest a correlation between higher hypnotizability and increased cognitive flexibility. Individuals who are more hypnotizable tend to demonstrate a greater ability to assimilate new information and relinquish outdated mental patterns.

This cognitive flexibility may be a key factor in what makes certain individuals more receptive to hypnotic suggestions. The ability to readily shift mental states and embrace new perspectives could facilitate the effectiveness of hypnotic interventions.

It’s worth noting that while these findings are intriguing, they should be considered within the broader context of ongoing research in cognitive science and hypnotherapy. The field continues to evolve, and further studies may provide additional insights into these relationships.

I find Faerman and Dr. Spiegel’s research on perseveration particularly intriguing, especially when considering how difficult it can be for people to let go of deeply ingrained beliefs and practices when they have regressed to experiences where they had been implanted with alien technology.

So, from a spiritual viewpoint, my perspective is that hypnosis can also be seen as a journey inward, where the usual boundaries of our thinking soften, allowing us to connect with deeper, more flexible aspects of our consciousness. It’s like opening a door to a different realm within our minds, where the usual rules don’t apply and new possibilities can emerge.

Check out the full scientific article here: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/04/science-of-hypnosis

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