Contents
Introduction
Hypnotherapy is not a magical spell and there is actual science involved. For decades, it has been used widely to release stress, overcome irrational fears (phobias), alter bad habits and alleviate the symptoms of pain. Yet, there are a lot of misconceptions about what happens inside the brain when it is under the hypnotic trance. Today, we will dive into the layers of the human mind to understand brain activity during hypnosis including the brain areas affected, changes in brain waves and how these changes benefit our well-being.
Scientific Research on Brain Activity During Hypnosis
The fascinating nature of Hypnotic therapy has caught the interest of many researchers. One such research has been done by Dr. David Spiegel. He talked about the misconception associated with hypnotherapy and how previous studies have only focused on its impacts and not on what actually goes on in the brain during the process. He conducted his research by using MRI to scan 57 participants while they were in hypnotic sessions. Using Spiegel’s research and other studies, we have detailed everything that happens to the brain during hypnotic therapy.
Understanding Brain Activity During Hypnosis
Activity in Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex is Reduced
DLPFC is an area of your brain responsible for many cognitive functions. It governs your ability to think critically, make decisions, solve problems and control your impulses. You can think of it as an ‘inner critic’ because it helps you reflect on your behaviour from a logical perspective. According to Dr. Spiegel’s study, brain activity during hypnosis decreases in the DLPC, due to which;
- Conscious mind takes a backseat creating an opportunity to unlock the emotions and memories buried in the subconscious.
- When your critical-conscious mind is relaxed, you are able to accept the positive suggestions provided by the hypnotist more easily. Because you are no longer questioning or overthinking every detail.
Connection between Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and Default Mode Network Weakens
Your brain functions with different areas working together as a well-connected network. DLPFC, as mentioned above, governs your rational thinking while DMN is associated with the ability to self-reflect. The interaction between hypnosis and brain function leads to a disconnection between these two parts of the brain. Due to this, you become less self-conscious of your actions. This is similar to when you do something out of your muscle memory without consciously thinking about it.
- In this state of mind, you are not overthinking your actions which makes it easier for you to let go of old patterns and adopt healthier behaviours suggested by your hypnotist.
Creation of New Neural Pathways
Changing your bad habits or letting go of fear can take a long time. Your conscious mind prefers sticking to familiar patterns. With hypnotherapy, you can speed up this process by ‘reprogramming’ your brain. With reduced activity in DLPFC, you become more receptive to change. New neural pathways are created which allows you to easily adopt positive changes over time.
Hypnosis and Brain Waves
Before Entering Hypnotic-Trance (Beta Waves)
Our brain usually operates in Beta waves when we are fully awake and in consciousness. In this state, you think rationally and critically. It enables you to make decisions and solve problems in your daily life. Hence, beta waves are linked with the conscious mind.
After Induction (Alpha Waves)
During hypnotherapy, your hypnotist will ask you to take deep breaths, count backwards or visualize a soothing imagery (e.g. entering a forest). These are induction techniques used to guide the patient into the hypnotic trance, a state of intense relaxation and heightened awareness. In this stage, your brain shifts from Beta to Alpha waves. The dominance of Alpha waves results in feelings of calmness and peace.
Deepening the Trance (Theta Waves)
A Hypnotist will then help you relax further through trance-deepening techniques. Here, your brain activity shifts completely to Theta Waves. It is often described as a wandering state because the chitter chatter in your critical, conscious brain goes quiet. Your attention shifts from the outside world to the world within.
To sum it up, brain activity during hypnosis shifts from Beta (alertness) to Alpha and Theta waves (relaxation), soothing the conscious mind and accessing the subconscious where mental growth, emotional release and healing occurs.
Wrapping it Up!
Hypnotherapy is backed up by science which shows significant changes in brain activity during hypnosis. Activity and connection between some areas of the brain are altered while brain waves also shift to different frequencies. Hypnotic therapy is a powerful tool that can transform your life when done correctly. This is why it is important to book a session with a certified expert. If you are looking for hypnotherapy in Dubai, please contact us at Home of Wellness. Our sessions are led by a certified hypnotist to ensure a safe and effective experience. Hoping to see you soon!