Hypnosis Tapes for Weight Loss

Hypnosis can help patients reprogram their brains, to add or eliminate certain actions. In the case of weight loss, hypnosis is used to program the brain for eating well, controlling portions, thinking positively and getting exercise. According to hypnotist Bianca Hitt , hypnosis can be a valuable tool when used correctly.

Procedure

A hypnotherapist is a trained professional who uses verbal repetition and visual images to induce an altered state of consciousness. Hypnosis tapes are created by hypnotherapists to listen to at home. Relaxing music or nature sounds may be played in the background to induce a greater state of relaxation. The hypnotherapist will give instructions, mental images and associative tools to use for weight loss.

In a relaxed and altered state, the theory of hypnosis asserts, these suggestions will have been implanted into the subconscious for the brain to associate with later. It is best to have lowered lighting and a comfortable room temperature in a space that is quiet, relaxing and free from interruptions and distractions. If you are pressed for time, you can also listen to the tapes while cleaning house, making dinner, or even when you are asleep, as the positive messages may still have an effect.

Duration

According to the Mayo Clinic, a comprehensive hypnosis weight loss program will last as long as the patient feels it is necessary. In general, a course of treatment lasts eight weeks. Longer or shorter, self-guided courses are also available. Patients can also use tapes while seeing a hypnotherapist, and continue even when treatment has ended, to keep focused on their goals.

Expected Outcomes

The amount of weight lost after a specific hypnosis regimen may varies, because some people respond particularly well to hypnosis and find it the best way to change their entire lifestyle. Dieters may find that hypnosis is a good way to supplement their efforts and that it helps them to maintain a positive mind-set and keep going.

Complementary Therapy

Hypnotist Rosemarie Schulman suggests that in addition to a hypnosis program for weight loss, it might be beneficial to join and use a gym or health club. The incentive to get moving and exercise, along with the hypnotic suggestions for losing weight, address the weight loss issue from two different modalities, the brain and the body. Coordinating efforts through multiple disciplines---such as seeking counseling to understand the emotional component of a weight problem---can also help increase a patient's success.

Resisting Hypnosis

Hypnosis tapes are often created as guided meditations and are not a one-size-fits-all solution. If a patient is unable to enter a hypnotic state, it may be due to discomfort with the hypnotherapist or the tape. If you find you are resistant or unable to fall into a state of relaxation to focus on the suggestions, try another therapist or a different kind of recording.