Animal magnetismwas postulated by Franz Mesmer in the 18th century, the term referred to a supposed magnetic fluid or ethereal medium believed to reside in the body. Mesmer chose the word animal to distinguish his supposed vital magnetic force from those referred to at that time as “mineral magnetism”.
The theory became the basis of treatment in Europe and the United States that sometimes involved on “laying on of hands,” and was very popular into the nineteenth century, with a strong cultural impact.
From some of the practices of animal magnetism branched out Hypnotism, Spiritualism, New Thought, so called “magnetic healing”, and Parapsychological research. Some forms of magnetism continue to be practiced, especially in continental Europe, even today.
For decades hypnosis has taken a bad rap due to endless myths and misconceptions like the accusations of mind control and the chicken clucking antics of stage hypnosis. The truth is that hypnosis was researched, validated and accepted by the AMA over 50 years ago as a legitimate healthful modality.
I normalize the process to my clients by explaining hypnosis as simply goal oriented meditation. We visit the same peaceful inner stillness one experiences when meditating, but rather than simply enjoying the cathartic healthy bliss of the moment we have work to do. With the subconscious open and active we get to the business of pulling out the unwanted patterns and rooting preferred alternatives. I hope this helps you better understand hypnosis.
Hypnosis offers such a quick disconnect effect. I see so many clients who enter the office with the weight of the world on their shoulders. The don’t know me, they have never been to my office, and most know nothing about hypnosis besides the entertainment side of the field.
My initial approach is to let them tell their story. I certainly need to gather pertinent information so I can assist them but this also helps them begin the process of separating themselves from their problems, which is crucial. The cathartic relief clients experience by simply offloading their ‘junk’ helps them to relax and the process also helps in developing rapport, they feel supported and begin to see me as someone who genuinely cares.
At the conclusion of the session I ask each client if they feel disconnected from the problems and concerns that burdened them upon arrival and most readily agree. This is a pivotal moment in their transition to success with their goal. The disconnect from their problematic past is palpable. Intellectually they recall the problems but clients no longer feel its effect. Responses to this freedom range from smiles to laughter, and on occasion, tears of joy.
A Boston area Hypnotherapist, with 10 years of medical experience as an RN, Paul has been helping clients since 2001 to overcome everyday challenges. Read more
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Paul’s Book
Healthy Hypnosis: The Simple Truth and Practical Use Paul explains the A-B-C’s of clinical hypnosis and offers case studies and examples of actual client sessions. This is a must read for anyone interested in this fascinating technique.
