Relaxation fights stress
The power of metaphor
Relaxation fights stress
Another study at Ohio State University found that hypnotherapy can actually prevent the immune system from weakening due to stress . ( 2 ) Hypnosis is a powerful way to relax , and counteracts the immune weakening effects of stress . One of the researchers went so far as to say : “ If you look at individuals who continue to practise hypnosis , they will continue to have enhanced immune function , and those who don ’ t , won ’ t .”
So one way you can strengthen and support your own immunological health is to practice hypnosis every day – or at least often and regularly . But , as the first study I mentioned shows , relaxation , while undoubtedly beneficial in itself , may not give you as much benefit as using hypnosis with specific suggestions to strengthen immunity .
The power of metaphor
In one experiment , school children were asked under hypnosis to imagine many strong white knights inside their blood stream . Measurements of their salivary immunoglobulin levels showed a significant increase . ( 3 )
When you practice self hypnosis , you can use these kinds of approaches to great effect . I find it fascinating how your subconscious mind can take a metaphor for health , such as a story of a safe thriving castle , and transform that into an actual change at a cellular level deep inside your body .
About Mark Tyrrell Psychology is my passion . I ' ve been a psychotherapist trainer since 1998 , specializing in brief , solution focused approaches . I now teach practitioners all over the world via our online courses . You can get my book FREE when you subscribe to my therapy techniques newsletter . Click here to subscribe free now .