Hypnosis has been a topic of fascination for centuries, often depicted as a mystical trance or mind control. But how effective is it as a modern tool for relaxation and stress relief? At Mastry, we approach hypnosis with both spiritual and a scientific lens. In this post, you will find out the effectiveness of hypnosis for relaxation and stress relief, and how it can complement practices like breathwork to support overall mental and emotional well-being.
How Hypnosis Works for Relaxation
Hypnosis helps guide you into a deeply relaxed state by focusing the mind, quieting mental chatter, and creating a heightened state of suggestibility. It’s not about losing control—quite the opposite. Hypnosis works by allowing you to access parts of the mind that are usually hard to reach, helping you address stress and anxiety at the root.
The Process of Hypnosis for Stress Relief
- Induction: This is where the relaxation begins. The practitioner uses calming language or imagery to guide you into a focused, relaxed state.
- Deepening: As your brain shifts into alpha or theta waves, the hypnotist / coach might guide you deeper into this state, where your mind is most receptive to suggestions.
- Suggestions: Once you’re deeply relaxed, the hypnotist offers positive suggestions related to your goals. Whether it’s reducing stress, letting go of tension, or even overcoming certain fears.
- Emerging: Finally, the hypnotist or Hypnobreathwork® certified coach brings you back into full awareness, usually leaving you feeling refreshed and centered.
Research on the Effectiveness of Hypnosis
A growing body of research supports the effectiveness of hypnosis for various conditions, especially stress management. A meta-analysis published in The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis found that hypnosis significantly reduced stress and anxiety levels in clinical trials. Another study from the American Psychological Association highlighted hypnosis as an effective complementary tool for stress management and relaxation.
Limitations of Hypnosis
While hypnosis can be incredibly effective, it’s not a “cure-all.” It works best when combined with other practices like mindfulness, therapy, or breathwork. Also, hypnosis may not work as well for everyone as some people may not be as susceptible to hypnotic suggestions, making it harder for them to reach a deep, relaxed state.
Complementing Hypnosis with Breathwork
One of the most powerful combinations is using breathwork alongside hypnosis. Breathwork helps you get into a relaxed, receptive state even before the hypnosis session begins. By practicing a calming breath technique, like 4-7-8 breathing, you prepare your nervous system to enter the trance-like state that hypnosis requires. Together, these practices can create a powerful synergy that deepens relaxation and helps you stay more centered in everyday life.
Conclusion
So, does hypnosis work? The answer is yes.
For many, it’s a highly effective tool for relaxation and stress relief. By accessing a deeply relaxed, suggestible state, hypnosis allows you to confront stress, anxiety, and even ingrained habits from a new perspective. While it works best when combined with complementary practices like breathwork, hypnosis offers a powerful path toward greater mental well-being. At Mastry, we use hypnosis with breathwork and visioning to create a space for you to unwind, release, and transform.
Explore one of our HypnoBreathwork® sessions that is designed to support you in any situation you’re wanting clarity on or relief from. Where we combine the power of breath with hypnotic suggestion to help you break free from limiting patterns and manifest the life you desire.
